Stage Directions

Summer is right around the corner, which can only mean one thing: summer stock!  In what other field do managers leave their jobs in the city only to take the same jobs in the country and consider it a break?  A Weekend in the Country isn’t a vacation – it is an awesome show-stopper to call night after night!  I have visited some truly beautiful parts of the country, only to sit in a dark room for most of the day.

Should stage managers try to be perfect and what happens when we are not?

I am now officially an old SM.  Not because I have been doing this job for a quarter century.  But because today I found myself on the losing side of history.  All because of a phone call.

One of the sessions I was most excited about at USITT was the very last Saturday session, the Stage Management Round Table. It was facilitated by Michele Kay and boasted a panel of awesome stage managers. They led us in a discussion about Vulnerability, Trust, Communication, Cooperation, Creativity, and Collaboration. We shared thoughts and stories about how each of these things are important and how they build upon one another like the layers of a cake to create a great process.

It has been over a week since USITT and I am still processing the experience! I met some incredible people, saw some inspiring technology, and attended some stellar sessions. It was a wonderfully overwhelming experience and I can’t wait for next year! (St. Louis March 8-11)  

If the stage manager is the communication hub of a production, do we need our own switchboard operator?

As I prepare to attend my first ever USITT Conference I am overwhelmed by all of the sessions available - fortunately there is a session for that.

This blog has focused on software and tools to help stage managers do their jobs.  We are also starting to explore workshops and other training resources.  If you know of a program that should be in the spotlight, post it in the comments below.  Our first SM training feature is Broadway Basics.

If you were hoping this was a blog about the Lion King you will be sorely disappointed.

While in rehearsal recently, the ever-dreaded emergency tone came over the loud speakers and a voice calmly told us to evacuate the building being sure to use the stairs and not the elevator.

I’ve noticed a trend lately that has made me think; recently the “spotlight” has begun to shine backstage.