MUGSS Positions: Stage Manager

The stage manager should:

• Inform the director where blocking is infeasible due to constraints of set and/or props.
• Manage crew and cast during performances, technical rehearsal and dress rehearsal.
• Run the tech rehearsal. The prompt book has everything in it you should need by this point. Do whatever you have to in order to make it run smoothly, whether that's sitting down alone quietly going through the book yourself or meeting with director, musical director or whoever to work it out cue to cue.
• Work out an efficient plan for stage crew during set changes, props needed during the performance etc. A set model is particularly helpful in working out how a set change will work - and explaining it to the rest of the crew.
• Oversee and coordinate crew and cast during performances, technical rehearsal and dress rehearsal.
• Oversee and coordinate get-in and get-out with Production Manager.
• Manage theatre before and after each performance.
• Hand over theatre to Deputy Stage Manager prior to each performance.
• Hand over theatre to Front of House Manager during intervals and after performances.
• Liase with Front of House Manager during performances.
• Devise plan for evacuation of performance venue in co-operation with venue staff and ensure entire company is informed.
• Ensure the show is running safely.
• In unforeseen but non-emergency situation, consult with appropriate managers.
• If necessary, stop performance and inform the audience of the situation.
• Coordinate evacuation of backstage and onstage company members.

The Stage Manager should where possible attend all rehearsals.

"I know what happened and it will be corrected" is a useful phrase. A lengthy explanation isn't necessarily required, unless asked for, if the problem can be fixed.

The stage manager does not yell or scream. Generally, that's a good rule to follow but particularly in a position when people must listen to you, do what you need them to do and do it without questioning your every move. Besides, people are much more willing to acquiese if you ask nicely instead of yelling at them! This will be especially difficult during the rehearsals when the crew and set join the cast for the first time and people don't stop talking - but if you've not shouted at anyone before now they're more likely to take you seriously when you do tell them to shut up!

SMNetwork.org FAQ - Do note that the information on the site has wide overlaps with the deputy stage manager and production manager. A lot of it also refers to professional stage management which is a good idea to bear in mind but often works very differently in amateur dramatics

Stage Managers Do Make Coffee: A Handbook for Stage Managers - Written by Carissa Dollar, with a LOT of experience, it's probably the best resource on the web. Some key points are reproduced above but this should really be read through!! Again, though, bear in mind that a lot of this has crossovers with ProductionManager and, in MUGSS's case, director (who is usually in charge of rehearsals with the musical director the way we work)