What does a stage manager do?

What is a Stage Manager?

A stage manager makes sure everything runs smoothly in a theatre production, from rehearsals to live performances. They work closely with the director, actors, and crew to keep everyone on the same page and help bring the show to life. Stage managers are often the main point of communication for a production, making sure all the details are organised and handled on time.

Stage managers need to be very organised, calm under pressure, and good at solving problems quickly. Their job is all about keeping the production running smoothly behind the scenes, so the audience can enjoy a seamless performance without knowing how much work goes on to make it happen.

What does a Stage Manager do?

Duties and Responsibilities
The duties and responsibilities of a stage manager cover many aspects of a theatre production. Here are some of the key tasks they typically handle:

• Rehearsal Coordination: Stage managers schedule rehearsals, record blocking (actor movements), take detailed notes, and ensure that everything needed for rehearsal is prepared. They also act as the main line of communication between the director, actors, designers, and production staff.
• Show Management: Once the show opens, stage managers "call" the show—this means they give cues for lighting, sound, and scene changes to happen at the right moment. They are responsible for making sure each performance runs smoothly and consistently.
• Documentation and Reports: Stage managers create and maintain important documents such as rehearsal reports, performance reports, contact sheets, and production calendars. These help keep everyone informed and organized throughout the production process.
• Problem Solving and Safety: They handle unexpected issues calmly and efficiently, from quick costume repairs to actor emergencies. They also ensure that safety protocols are followed on stage and backstage.

Types of Stage Managers
There are several types of stage managers, each with different responsibilities depending on the size and type of the production. Here are the most common types:

• Production Stage Manager (PSM): This is the lead stage manager who oversees the entire stage management team. They are responsible for coordinating all aspects of the production, from pre-rehearsal planning to calling cues during performances and managing the overall schedule.
• Assistant Stage Manager (ASM): ASMs support the production stage manager by helping set up and run rehearsals, managing backstage areas, and ensuring props and actors are in place. During performances, they often handle scene changes and quick costume changes.
• Rehearsal Stage Manager: Sometimes used on large or touring productions, this stage manager focuses mainly on coordinating rehearsals, taking notes, and ensuring the cast and crew have everything they need during the preparation phase.
• Deck Stage Manager: This type of stage manager works specifically backstage during performances, managing movements on the stage level. They ensure that set pieces, props, and actors are in the right place at the right time.

What is the workplace of a Stage Manager like?

The workplace of a stage manager is centered around the theatre, and it often changes depending on the stage of the production. During rehearsals, stage managers typically work in rehearsal studios or on the actual stage. They arrive early to prepare the space and stay late to wrap up notes and make sure everything is ready for the next day. They are responsible for keeping rehearsals running smoothly, tracking changes to the script or staging, and ensuring communication between the director and the production team.

Once the production moves into the theatre, the stage manager’s job becomes even more hands-on. They usually work in the wings of the stage or in the control booth during performances. From this spot, they “call the show,” which means giving cues for lights, sound, scene changes, and actor entrances. They stay in constant communication with the crew through headsets to make sure every element of the performance happens at the right time.

Stage managers often work long and irregular hours, including evenings and weekends, especially during tech rehearsals and show runs. Their environment can be fast-paced and demanding, but also exciting and full of creative energy. They are a key part of the team that keeps the production organized and on track from the first rehearsal to the final performance.