Stage Manager
A Stage Manager is like a behind-the-scenes coordinator who makes sure theater productions and live shows run smoothly. They are responsible for organizing rehearsals, coordinating between different departments (like lighting, sound, and costumes), and running the actual show performances. Think of them as project managers for theatrical productions - they keep track of schedules, maintain production notes, and make sure everyone knows what they need to do and when. During live performances, they're the ones giving cues to actors, technicians, and crew members to ensure everything happens at the right moment.
Examples in Resumes
Served as Stage Manager for 12 major theater productions, coordinating cast of 30+ performers
Lead Stage Manager for national touring production, managing technical crew of 15 people
Assistant Stage Manager for Broadway-style musical, handling prop coordination and backstage communications
Typical job title: "Stage Managers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Stage Managers
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Networking Sites
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you handle multiple conflicting priorities during a major production?
Expected Answer: Should discuss experience with managing complex situations, delegation skills, problem-solving abilities, and maintaining calm under pressure while prioritizing show-critical issues.
Q: Tell me about a time when you had to manage a crisis during a live performance.
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate leadership in emergency situations, quick decision-making skills, and ability to maintain show continuity while ensuring safety and proper communication.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you organize and maintain your production book?
Expected Answer: Should explain their system for keeping track of blocking, cues, schedules, and production notes, showing attention to detail and organizational skills.
Q: How do you handle communication between different departments during a production?
Expected Answer: Should discuss experience with coordinating between technical crews, artistic staff, and performers, showing strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the basic responsibilities of a stage manager during rehearsals?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain taking attendance, recording blocking, maintaining schedules, and supporting the director's needs.
Q: How do you prepare for a performance call time?
Expected Answer: Should describe basic pre-show checks, communicating with crew and cast, checking props and safety requirements.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic cue calling
- Rehearsal coordination
- Production note-taking
- Schedule management
Mid (2-5 years)
- Technical rehearsal management
- Department coordination
- Emergency response handling
- Production book creation
Senior (5+ years)
- Full production management
- Budget oversight
- Staff supervision
- Complex show calling
Red Flags to Watch For
- No experience with live performances
- Poor communication skills
- Lack of attention to detail
- Unable to demonstrate basic knowledge of theater terminology
- No experience with production schedules or callsheets
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