Stage Management Collaborative Articles

How do you foster a positive and collaborative relationship with the director and the cast?

Learn how to support the artistic vision of the show and coordinate with the director and the cast as a stage manager. Find tips on communication, flexibility…

Stage Management

How do you negotiate your salary and benefits as a stage manager?

3 contributions

Learn how to negotiate your salary and benefits as a stage manager with these tips. Find out how to research, prepare, compromise, assert, communicate, and…

Stage Management

How do you manage cueing conflicts with other stage managers or departments?

7 contributions

Learn tips and techniques for managing cueing conflicts or overlaps with other stage managers or departments in this article on stage management cueing skills.

Stage Management

How do you develop and maintain trust and rapport with the people you work with?

8 contributions

Learn how to develop and maintain trust and rapport with your colleagues in stage management. Discover tips and strategies on communication, reliability, diversity,…

Stage Management

How do you collaborate and coordinate with other stage managers in a festival or a repertory setting?

3 contributions

Learn how to work effectively with other stage managers in a festival or repertory setting. Discover tips and best practices for communication, coordination…

Stage Management

What are some of the common challenges or pitfalls that stage managers face when negotiating contracts?

5 contributions

Learn how to avoid or overcome common challenges or pitfalls that stage managers face when negotiating contracts for theatrical productions.

Stage Management

How do you document and share your stage management processes and outcomes with others?

3 contributions

Learn some tips and tools to document and share your stage management processes and outcomes with others, such as using a binder, a portfolio, a debrief, and…

Stage Management

How do you develop a cue script that is clear and consistent for your team?

2 contributions

Learn how to choose a format, number the cues, mark the cues, add notes, and review and revise your cue script for a theatrical production.

Stage Management

How do you deal with conflicting or contradictory feedback from different sources?

4 contributions

Learn how to deal with feedback from various sources that conflicts or contradicts each other as a stage manager. Follow these tips to navigate this challenge.

Stage Management

How do you facilitate the transition from rehearsal to performance in stage management?

13 contributions

Learn how to facilitate the transition from rehearsal to performance in stage management with these tips on planning, coordinating, supporting, conducting…

Stage Management

What are some tips to negotiate lower rates with vendors and suppliers for tech equipment and services?

4 contributions

Learn how to save money and get the best deals for your theatre tech equipment and services. Follow these tips to negotiate lower rates with vendors and suppliers.

Stage Management

What are the benefits and challenges of using virtual or remote dry tech?

4 contributions

Learn how virtual or remote dry tech can help or hinder stage managers and their teams in rehearsing the technical aspects of theatre productions.

Stage Management

How do you manage your own stress and fatigue during dry tech?

5 contributions

Learn how to manage your stress and fatigue during dry tech, a crucial phase of stage management where you coordinate all the technical elements of a show.

Stage Management

What are the best online courses or resources for stage management skills?

5 contributions

Learn how to master stage management skills online with these courses and resources. From basics to certification, find out how to excel as a stage manager.

Stage Management

How do you prevent pre-show check errors from happening in the first place?

5 contributions

Learn how to prevent common pre-show check mistakes and ensure a smooth show with these tips on planning, communication, delegation, verification, and learning.

Stage Management

What are some strategies for resolving disputes among cast and crew members without escalating the problem?

4 contributions 4 months ago

Learn some effective strategies for resolving disputes among cast and crew members without escalating the problem as a stage manager.

Stage Management

How do you communicate with the director and the actors during dry tech transitions?

0 contributions

Learn how to communicate effectively with the director and the actors during dry tech transitions as a stage manager, and how to execute them smoothly and…

Stage Management

What are the best practices for creating and updating swing plots and tracks?

0 contributions

Learn how to create and update swing plots and tracks for your show, based on the master plot and the abilities and requirements of swings, standbys, and alternates.

Stage Management

What are the best tools and templates for tracking and reporting stage management expenses?

0 contributions

Learn about the best tools and templates for tracking and reporting stage management expenses for your theatre production, such as spreadsheet software, budget…

Stage Management

What are some tips to increase your value and skills as an Equity stage manager?

0 contributions

Learn some tips to increase your value and skills as an Equity stage manager, and potentially earn a higher salary in the theatre industry.

Stage Management

How do you use blocking notation to track actors' movements and cues?

5 contributions 1 month ago

Learn how to use blocking notation to record actors' movements and cues on stage. Follow these four steps and improve your stage management skills.

Stage Management

How do you customize your prompt book for different types of shows or venues?

0 contributions

Learn how to create and format your prompt book for different types of shows or venues. Find tips and examples for stage managers.

Stage Management

How do you motivate and inspire your team during pre-show check?

5 contributions

Learn how to communicate, build trust, empower, create a positive environment, and inspire your stage management team during the pre-show check.

Stage Management

How do you format your cue sheets for clarity and consistency?

4 contributions

Learn how to create effective cue sheets for stage managers, with tips on how to structure, write, and update your cues for technical coordination.

Stage Management

How do you format and distribute your production meeting minutes?

0 contributions

Learn how to format and distribute your production meeting minutes effectively and efficiently with our tips and best practices for stage managers.

Stage Management

What are the most common mistakes or challenges that stage managers face when writing running notes?

0 contributions

Learn how to write running notes for a show without errors or confusion. Avoid formatting, information, language, timing, feedback, and personal issues.

Stage Management

What are the current trends and innovations in stage management?

10 contributions

Learn about the latest developments and challenges in stage management, such as communication systems, training and education, digital tools, diversity and…

Stage Management

What are some tips for recruiting and managing volunteers or crew members?

3 contributions

Learn some tips for finding, training, and motivating volunteers or crew members for your stage management projects.

Stage Management

What are some tools or techniques for managing your time and resources effectively as a stage manager?

10 contributions

Learn how to use tools and techniques to manage your time and resources effectively as a stage manager for theatrical productions.

Stage Management

How do you coordinate lighting and sound cues with the stage manager?

0 contributions

Learn some tips and best practices for managing the lighting and sound cues in stage production, from knowing the script to troubleshooting problems.

Stage Management

How do you communicate with your crew during pre-show check?

4 contributions

Learn how to communicate effectively and efficiently with your crew during the pre-show check as a stage manager. Follow these tips and best practices for a smooth…

Stage Management

How do you maintain a positive and professional relationship with the production team and the venue staff?

10 contributions

Learn how to communicate effectively as a stage manager with these tips and best practices. Find out how to give feedback, handle conflicts, adapt to changes, and…

Stage Management

How do you document and archive your prompt book after the show closes?

0 contributions

Learn how to backup, scan, bind, store, share, and update your prompt book after the show closes. Follow these tips and best practices for stage managers.

Stage Management

What are the best practices for giving constructive feedback to your crew and cast?

3 contributions

Learn how to give constructive feedback to your crew and cast in stage management. Discover tips and techniques for balancing praise and criticism, being respectful…

Stage Management

What are some of the best resources and networks for stage managers to learn from and connect with?

0 contributions

Discover the best resources and networks for stage managers to improve your skills, find opportunities, and support your peers.

Stage Management

How do you prepare for the transition from previews to opening night and beyond?

0 contributions

Learn how to prepare for the transition from previews to opening night as a stage manager. Review feedback, update paperwork, rehearse changes, and more.

Stage Management

What are the benefits and challenges of working as a stage manager in different types of venues?

4 contributions

Learn how the Equity stage manager contract varies by venue type, and what benefits and challenges each venue offers for stage managers.

Stage Management

How do you coordinate with the front of house and the box office staff in a dress rehearsal?

5 contributions

Learn how to communicate and collaborate with the front of house and box office staff in a dress rehearsal, and how to handle any emergencies that might arise.

Stage Management

How do you communicate with the director, actors, and crew using your prompt book?

0 contributions

Learn how to create, use, maintain, and share your prompt book for a theatrical production. A prompt book is a key tool for stage managers to communicate with the…

Stage Management