Prompt Book
A Prompt Book is like a master guide or blueprint for running a theater show. It contains all the important information about how a show should be performed, including actors' movements, lighting changes, sound cues, and stage directions. Stage managers use this essential tool to make sure every performance runs smoothly and consistently. Think of it as the show's instruction manual or playbook that helps coordinate all the different parts of a production. Some people also call it a "prompt script" or "calling script" because it's used to "prompt" or guide all the technical elements and movements during a show.
Examples in Resumes
Created detailed Prompt Book for regional theater production of 'The Phantom of the Opera'
Managed complex scene transitions using Prompt Script for Broadway touring production
Developed digital Prompt Book system to coordinate 200+ technical cues
Trained assistant stage managers on Calling Script preparation and maintenance
Typical job title: "Stage Managers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Stage Managers
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you handle last-minute changes to a prompt book during technical rehearsals?
Expected Answer: A senior stage manager should discuss their system for clearly marking changes, communicating updates to all departments, and ensuring the entire stage management team is trained on new cues or modifications while maintaining show consistency.
Q: How do you manage digital vs. paper prompt books?
Expected Answer: Should explain the pros and cons of both systems, backup procedures, and how they integrate technology while maintaining reliability. Should mention experience with various digital platforms and emergency backup plans.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What information do you include in your prompt book's emergency procedures section?
Expected Answer: Should describe essential emergency protocols, contact information, evacuation procedures, and specific response plans for various situations that might occur during a performance.
Q: How do you train others to read and understand your prompt book?
Expected Answer: Should explain their system of notation, color-coding methods, and training process for getting other team members familiar with their cueing and notation style.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the essential elements you include in a prompt book?
Expected Answer: Should list basic components like cue sheets, ground plans, contact information, set changes, and basic emergency procedures. Should understand the importance of clear, consistent notation.
Q: How do you mark different types of cues in your prompt book?
Expected Answer: Should explain basic cue notation systems for lighting, sound, and stage movement, demonstrating understanding of standard theater abbreviations and symbols.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic prompt book creation and maintenance
- Understanding of standard cue notation
- Basic show calling abilities
- Rehearsal notation skills
Mid (2-5 years)
- Complex cue sequence management
- Digital prompt book systems
- Emergency procedure documentation
- Training assistant stage managers
Senior (5+ years)
- Managing multiple prompt books for large productions
- Creating standardized notation systems
- Digital integration and backup systems
- Training and supervising stage management teams
Red Flags to Watch For
- No understanding of basic cue notation
- Disorganized documentation methods
- Unable to explain backup systems for prompt books
- Lack of experience with both digital and paper systems
Related Terms
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