Standby
Standby is a crucial role in theater and live entertainment where a performer or technician is ready to step in at a moment's notice if the primary person cannot perform their duties. This is different from an understudy, as standbys are typically more experienced and are not part of the regular ensemble. They must maintain complete readiness to perform or manage their assigned role, often attending rehearsals and staying near the theater during performances. In stage management, standby can also refer to the position or the cue given before important technical changes, like lighting or sound effects.
Examples in Resumes
Served as Standby Stage Manager for national tour of 'The Phantom of the Opera'
Maintained Standby position for lead Stage Manager during entire Broadway season
Coordinated technical Standby cues for complex scene transitions in multiple productions
Typical job title: "Standby Stage Managers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Standby Stage Managers
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you prepare to cover multiple positions as a standby stage manager?
Expected Answer: The candidate should explain their system for organizing multiple show bibles, maintaining updated notes for different positions, and their method for staying ready to step into any role at a moment's notice.
Q: How do you handle emergency situations when stepping in as a standby?
Expected Answer: Look for answers that demonstrate leadership, quick thinking, and ability to maintain show quality while adapting to unexpected situations. Should discuss communication with crew and cast.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What is your process for learning and maintaining multiple versions of the same show?
Expected Answer: Should discuss methods for tracking changes, maintaining accurate documentation, and staying current with all versions of the production they might need to cover.
Q: How do you balance standby duties with other responsibilities?
Expected Answer: Should explain time management, prioritization, and how they maintain readiness while handling other tasks.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What do you do to prepare for a standby shift?
Expected Answer: Should mention reviewing show notes, checking communications equipment, arriving early, and familiarizing themselves with recent show changes.
Q: How do you maintain focus during long periods of waiting?
Expected Answer: Should discuss strategies for staying alert and ready while not actively managing the show, including show tracking and maintaining useful notes.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of stage management duties
- Ability to follow cue sheets
- Knowledge of theater terminology
- Basic communication skills
Mid (2-5 years)
- Experience with multiple show types
- Quick adaptation to different management styles
- Strong documentation skills
- Crisis management abilities
Senior (5+ years)
- Extensive show management experience
- Leadership in emergency situations
- Advanced technical knowledge
- Ability to train others
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unable to maintain focus during long waiting periods
- Poor communication skills
- Lack of basic theater terminology knowledge
- Unwillingness to adapt to different management styles
- Poor time management
Related Terms
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