Five Minutes
In theater and live events, "Five Minutes" is a standard industry call given by stage managers to performers and crew members, indicating that the show or performance will begin in five minutes. This time warning is crucial for final preparations, allowing performers to take their places and crew members to complete final checks. It's part of a series of traditional time calls that help keep shows running smoothly and on schedule. When you see this term on a resume, it often indicates that the candidate has experience with professional theater timing and show management protocols.
Examples in Resumes
Maintained precise show timing and delivered Five Minutes and other time calls for a 12-show weekly schedule
Coordinated backstage activities and Five Minutes calls for cast of 30 performers
Successfully managed Five-Minutes and other time warnings for multiple Broadway-style productions
Typical job title: "Stage Managers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Stage Managers
Professional Organizations
Online Networks
Job Boards
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you handle multiple time-sensitive cues and calls during a complex production?
Expected Answer: A senior stage manager should explain their system for tracking multiple cues, delegating responsibilities, and ensuring smooth communication between different departments while maintaining precise timing.
Q: What's your approach to training new staff on show timing protocols?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate leadership experience in teaching standard time calls, explaining their importance, and establishing consistent communication practices across the production team.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you coordinate Five Minutes and other time calls with multiple backstage areas?
Expected Answer: Should explain their method for ensuring all areas receive calls clearly, including use of communication systems and backup plans if technology fails.
Q: What's your process for adjusting time calls when unexpected delays occur?
Expected Answer: Should describe how they handle schedule changes, communicate updates, and maintain show flow despite delays.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the standard time calls in theater, and when do you give them?
Expected Answer: Should know basic time calls (60 minutes, 30 minutes, 15 minutes, 5 minutes, places) and understand their purpose in show preparation.
Q: How do you ensure all performers acknowledge receiving the Five Minutes call?
Expected Answer: Should explain basic procedures for delivering calls and tracking responses from cast members.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic time calls and show protocols
- Cast and crew sign-in tracking
- Simple production coordination
- Basic radio/headset communication
Mid (2-5 years)
- Multiple department coordination
- Emergency procedure management
- Complex show timing
- Crew supervision
Senior (5+ years)
- Production team leadership
- Training and mentoring
- Complex show management
- Emergency response coordination
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unfamiliarity with standard theater time calls
- Poor time management skills
- Lack of clear communication abilities
- No experience with show calling or cue coordination
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