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Theatre stage manager: Job description and activities

Job description

Theatre stage managers are the essential link between all of the different branches of a theatre company. Their role is to manage rehearsals, actors, directors, designers, props and costume fittings, as well as managing the performances on stage and liaising with the box office and front of house staff. They 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.

The stage manager is usually supported by an assistant deputy manager, a deputy stage manager and an assistant stage manager, but in small companies and touring theatres, the stage manager may handle all areas of the production. In many small production companies, the stage manager may take over roles such as the technical and lighting side of work. It is important to be flexible and offer as many skills as possible.

Typical work activities

Roles do vary depending on the type of organisation that you are working in. In some companies, you will have a team to help, but in small theatre groups, fringe groups and touring companies, you will be required to do everything from coordinating the production to tidying up the props after the show. The role involves working closely with other members of the production team.

Typical duties may include:

• setting up and running rehearsal schedules;
• working with other departments to plan wardrobes, set design, scene changes, sound and lighting;
• managing the props budget as well as organising props and set dressing in small companies (you may also assist in set construction);
• keeping the ‘prompt copy’ of the script which notes the performers’ positions on stage, script changes as well as the props, lighting and sound needed for each scene;
• liaising with theatre managers and front of house staff;
• supervising the 'get in' and ‘get out’ (when the set and equipment are set up and taken down after the show);
• cueing performers to go on stage;
• cueing the technical crew to operate sound and lighting;
• arranging costume and wig fittings;
• distributing information to other theatre departments;
• ensuring the company's welfare and maintaining a good working knowledge of all relevant health and safety legislation and good working practice;
• watching each show and dealing with any emergencies;
• maintaining and replacing props and costumes as required;
• liaising with resident staff at other performance venues (if touring).

All of these roles will happen either before, during or after a performance.

AGCAS

Written by Amanda Monteiro, London South Bank University

Last updated:

February 2009

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