Stage Manager

41 Pages 10188 Words

Job Description
There is no single definition or job description for the tasks performed by the person who accepts the title of Stage Manager for any theatrical production. Every theatre or production company has different ideas and expectations regarding the Stage Manager's role in the production process. Each Producer or Director may ask different things of the Stage Manager for each individual production. Therefore, the individual who accepts this position must be as flexible as the job description itself.
The Stage Manager is to perform the following duties:
• Calls all rehearsals, before or after opening.
• Assembles and maintains the Prompt Book.
• Works with the Director and the Department Heads to schedule rehearsal and outside calls.
• Assumes active responsibility for the form and discipline of rehearsal and performance, and is the executive instrument in the technical running of each performance.
• Maintains the artistic intentions of the Director and Producer after opening.
• Keeps any records necessary to inform the Producer of attendance, time, welfare benefits, etc.
• Maintains discipline.
A Stage Manager's success generally can't be measured in quantitative terms. There are, however, some basic qualities and character traits of good Stage Managers, which remain constant.
• A Stage Manager is someone who desires and accepts responsibility.
• A Stage Manager is a tactful communicator with a sense of humor.
• A Stage Manager is organized, adaptable, and thinks quickly on her feet while keeping the goals and priorities of the artistic staff in mind.
• A Stage Manager is often privy to confidential information such as salaries, disciplinary action or health problems. As a condition of this knowledge, a Stage Manager knows when to keep his or her mouth shut and his or her eyes and ears open.
• A Stage Manager creates positive energy and inspires those around him or her to g...