Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Clear Com • Places Call • Strike

Upstage

Term from Stage Management industry explained for recruiters

Upstage refers to the area of a theater stage that is furthest from the audience (toward the back of the stage). In theater and event management jobs, this term is commonly used to describe both a location and various job responsibilities. When you see this term in resumes or job descriptions, it often indicates experience with managing activities in the rear stage area, which is typically where major set pieces, props, and performer entrances are coordinated. It's similar to saying "backstage" but more specific to the rear area. Stage managers and technical directors use this term regularly when giving directions or describing where activities take place.

Examples in Resumes

Coordinated Upstage scene changes for a 12-show musical production

Managed Upstage lighting and prop placement for national touring company

Designed Upstage traffic patterns for cast of 50 performers

Typical job title: "Stage Managers"

Also try searching for:

Stage Manager Technical Director Production Manager Theater Operations Manager Stage Crew Supervisor Production Stage Manager Assistant Stage Manager

Where to Find Stage Managers

Professional Organizations

Job Boards

Networking Resources

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you handle complex scene transitions involving multiple departments?

Expected Answer: A senior stage manager should explain their experience coordinating between lighting, sound, props, and performers, demonstrating leadership and problem-solving skills in high-pressure situations.

Q: Describe how you would manage a technical emergency during a live performance.

Expected Answer: Should discuss emergency protocols, backup plans, communication systems, and how to maintain calm while solving problems without disrupting the performance.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you organize and run technical rehearsals?

Expected Answer: Should explain their process for scheduling, communication with different departments, note-taking, and ensuring all technical elements are properly coordinated.

Q: What's your process for creating and maintaining a prompt book?

Expected Answer: Should describe their system for organizing cues, blocking notes, set changes, and other important show information in a clear, accessible way.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the basic responsibilities of a stage manager?

Expected Answer: Should be able to list key duties like calling cues, maintaining show reports, coordinating rehearsals, and managing backstage activities.

Q: How do you maintain communication between cast and crew?

Expected Answer: Should discuss basic communication tools like rehearsal reports, callboards, headset protocol, and pre-show meetings.