What steps can you take to ensure a smooth production as a stage manager?

1 Plan ahead

Before the production begins, you need to familiarize yourself with the script, the director's vision, the budget, the schedule, and the technical requirements. You should also create a stage management team that can assist you with various tasks, such as taking notes, running cues, supervising props, and handling emergencies. You should also establish a clear and consistent communication system with all the stakeholders, such as email, phone, or online platforms. Planning ahead will help you anticipate and avoid potential problems and conflicts.

2 Organize rehearsals

During the rehearsal process, you need to keep track of the progress, the feedback, the changes, and the issues that arise. You should also create and update various documents, such as the rehearsal report, the production book, the contact sheet, the cue sheet, and the blocking notes. These documents will help you document and share important information with the director, the cast, the crew, and the venue. You should also ensure that the rehearsals are conducted in a safe, respectful, and productive manner, and that everyone follows the rules and policies of the production.

3 Coordinate tech week

Tech week is the final phase of the rehearsal process, where you integrate all the technical elements, such as lights, sound, costumes, and set, with the performance. This can be a stressful and hectic time, as you need to coordinate and troubleshoot multiple aspects of the show. You should also run technical rehearsals, dress rehearsals, and previews, where you test and adjust the cues, the transitions, and the effects. You should also communicate and collaborate with the technical director, the designers, the operators, and the stagehands, and ensure that they have the necessary tools and instructions.

4 Manage performances

Once the show opens, you need to manage the performances and ensure that they run smoothly and consistently. You should also monitor and maintain the quality and safety of the show, and deal with any unexpected situations, such as technical glitches, injuries, or audience complaints. You should also lead and supervise the pre-show, the intermission, and the post-show activities, such as checking the props, the costumes, the set, and the equipment, and giving cues and signals to the cast and the crew. You should also collect and distribute the performance reports, the feedback, and the notes.

5 Support the cast and the crew

As a stage manager, you are not only a coordinator and a supervisor, but also a leader and a supporter. You should also foster a positive and respectful relationship with the cast and the crew, and provide them with the necessary guidance, encouragement, and feedback. You should also respect their artistic choices, their opinions, and their needs, and address any concerns or conflicts that may arise. You should also recognize and appreciate their efforts and contributions, and celebrate their achievements and successes.

6 Wrap up the production

After the final performance, you need to wrap up the production and ensure that everything is properly closed and cleared. You should also oversee and assist with the strike, where you dismantle and remove all the technical elements, such as the lights, the sound, the costumes, and the set, and return them to their original sources. You should also collect and archive all the documents, such as the production book, the cue sheet, the blocking notes, and the performance reports. You should also thank and acknowledge all the people who were involved in the production, and give them feedback and recommendations for future projects.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?