Stage managers are responsible for the smooth running of theatre productions. They act as a vital link between the artistic and technical aspects of a show. They make sure that everyone and everything involved in the production, from actors and technicians to props and lighting is in the right place, at the right time.
What is the work like?
Stage managers are responsible for the smooth running of theatre productions. They act as a vital link between the artistic and technical aspects of a show. They make sure that everyone and everything involved in the production, from actors and technicians to props and lighting is in the right place, at the right time.
Stage managers work on all kinds of production, from plays to operas, ballets and musicals. Some are involved in stage managing major events such as music festivals.
The role involves working closely with all the other members of the production team. In particular, stage managers carry out the instructions of the director, making sure that they, along with their cast, have the best conditions for working without distractions.
Responsibilities before the production starts include:
- scheduling rehearsals
- marking out the set on the floor of the rehearsal room with tape, based on the designer's plan
- arranging for substitute props for rehearsals
- compiling a 'prompt copy' or 'prompt script', which notes the actors' moves, set changes and technicians' cues
- supervising the introduction of the 'real' props as they are acquired or created
- Overseeing the 'get in' to the theatre - when the set, lighting and sound are installed at the venue.
During performances, the stage manager watches each show and deals with any emergencies, ensuring that:
- the stage and wings are set up with the furniture and props required
- the actors are called before and during the show
- all the cues for technical departments, such as lighting, sound, video and scene changes, are called by one of the stage management team from the prompt desk
- Nightly performance reports are sent to the director and management.
After the run of performances is over, the stage manager also supervises the 'get out', when all the production equipment is removed from the theatre.
In larger productions, stage managers lead a team, usually consisting of a deputy stage manager and one or more assistant managers. In small shows and fringe tours, one person may carry out all the stage management tasks.
Salaries for assistant stage managers may start from around £14,500 a year.
Hours and environment
Stage managers' working hours are often long and irregular, dictated by production times. Evening and weekend work is common.
The work is based in theatres and other arts venues. The backstage areas of some theatres can be dark, cramped and stuffy.
Physical stamina is essential. Stage managers are often expected help move or lift props.
Stage managers may go on tour with a production, which can involve lengthy stays away from home. It is important to have a driving license as they may need to collect props or drive cast and crew members between venues.
Salary and other benefits
These figures are only a guide, as actual rates of pay may vary, depending on the employer and where people live.
- Assistant stage managers may start on a salary of around £14,500 a year.
- Stage managers may earn around £20,000.
- Experienced stage managers working on major productions may earn over £40,000.
Many stage managers are freelance, and are paid for each production or run of performances.
Skills and personal qualities
A stage manager must be:
- adept at managing and motivating people
- extremely well organized, with an eye for detail
- tactful but firm, to handle any 'creative tantrums'
- cool and efficient in a crisis
- good at solving problems
- able to maintain concentration during long periods or repetitive tasks
- confident with figures and IT
- Able to read music (especially in the case of stage managers looking to work in fields such as opera or ballet).
- Physically fit.
Interests
It is important to:
- have a passion for theatre and the arts
- Enjoy organizing.
Getting in
Around 2,000 people work as stage managers. There are jobs in all parts of the UK.
Employers include:
- provincial theatres
- large commercial theatres, such as those in London's West End
- touring companies
- fringe theatre
- community companies, for example those working in education or prisons
- Organizers of corporate, sporting and entertainment events.
Many stage managers are self-employed and work on short-term contracts. Competition for posts can be keen.
Many posts are filled through personal contacts. Vacancies are listed in specialist publications such as The Stage. Professional bodies, such as Equity and the Stage Management Association (SMA), also list opportunities for members on their websites.
Entry for young people
It is usual to start in a junior role, either as a casual member of the stage crew or as an assistant stage manager. Entrants may then progress to deputy stage manager and then stage manager.
It is important to gain voluntary experience, perhaps assisting in community or amateur productions, or youth or student theatre.
Many stage managers have a degree or diploma. The degree or diploma may be in any subject, although courses in stage management, theatre production, drama or music may offer an advantage. Graduates in non-related subjects may study for postgraduate qualifications in technical theatre.
Many drama schools offer courses in stage management. The National Council for Drama Training (NCDT) lists accredited courses. It is important to check that courses include relevant content, and preferably practical experience through a work placement. Entry requirements vary; most courses require some A levels/H grades or equivalent qualifications, or previous experience in drama productions. BTEC Certificates and Diplomas in Performing Arts (Stage Management) at Level 3 are also available.
Entry for adults
Adults need some relevant experience. Some stage managers come to the role with a background in acting or writing for the stage.
Training
Most training is done on the job. Organisations such as the SMA run short courses in specific skills.
Companies are often unable to support training financially, so stage managers may have to take responsibility for their own professional development.
Getting on
Stage managers often need to work with a number of different companies to advance in their careers, potentially working their way up to posts with national companies.
In a larger organisation, they may be able to progress to company stage manager, with wider duties such as publicity and financing.
It may be possible to move into other areas of theatre, such as directing or producing. Another possible move is into film and/or TV, starting as a trainee floor manager.
Unions
If you want to be an actor and you want to get a job in the performing arts you can join Equity, Equity is a UK Trade Union representing professional performers and other creative workers from across the spectrum of the entertainment, creative and cultural industries.
Unions exist to aid the employee of a company. They are the link between the employee and employer; a good union steward will fight for the benefits and wages that employees are making. In other cases being a union employee can help to save a job that in other cases may have been terminated.
