Places
Places refers to the specific locations or positions on a stage where performers, props, and set pieces need to be during a performance. It's a fundamental concept in stage management where the stage manager ensures everything and everyone is in the right spot at the right time. When you see this term in resumes, it usually means the person has experience in marking, tracking, and managing stage positions during rehearsals and shows. Think of it like a detailed map of where everything needs to be throughout a performance.
Examples in Resumes
Created detailed Places charts for 12-person ensemble production
Managed Places and transitions for 20+ set pieces in musical theater production
Developed digital Places tracking system for complex scene changes
Typical job title: "Stage Managers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Stage Managers
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you handle complex scene changes with multiple moving pieces?
Expected Answer: Should explain their system for organizing and documenting multiple moving elements, how they coordinate with crew members, and mention experience with both manual and automated systems.
Q: Tell me about a time when you had to reorganize places due to a last-minute change.
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate problem-solving abilities, quick thinking, and how they communicate changes to cast and crew effectively.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you create and maintain a places chart?
Expected Answer: Should explain their method for documenting stage positions, including how they mark the stage and communicate positions to performers and crew.
Q: How do you train understudies on places?
Expected Answer: Should discuss their process for documenting and teaching positions to new cast members, including any tools or systems they use.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is a places call and how do you manage it?
Expected Answer: Should explain the basic concept of getting performers and crew into position before a show and the standard procedure for doing so.
Q: How do you mark places on a stage?
Expected Answer: Should describe basic methods for marking positions on stage, including types of tape used and standard marking conventions.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of stage terminology
- Ability to create simple places charts
- Knowledge of standard stage marking techniques
- Basic crew coordination
Mid (2-5 years)
- Complex places chart creation
- Experience with different stage configurations
- Ability to train others on places
- Quick problem-solving during shows
Senior (5+ years)
- Management of large-scale productions
- Development of tracking systems
- Team leadership and training
- Advanced problem-solving in live situations
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of basic stage terminology
- Lack of experience with creating places charts
- Poor communication skills
- No experience with live performances
- Unfamiliarity with standard marking techniques
Related Terms
Need more hiring wisdom? Check these out...
From Ghost Town to Talent Hub: Transforming Your Careers Blog into a Talent Magnet
Tiny Neighborhoods, Huge Impact: The Surprising Power of Hyper-Local SEO in Your Hiring Game
Speak Their Language: How Localized Job Descriptions Unlock Regional Talent
