Behind the Curtain: A Day in the Life of a Stage Manager

Behind the Curtain: A Day in the Life of a Stage Manager

If you've ever been to a theater performance, you may have noticed a person dressed in black, lurking in the shadows backstage. This person is a stage manager, and they are the unsung heroes of any theater production. They are responsible for making sure everything runs smoothly, from the lighting to the sound to the actors themselves. But what does a typical day look like for a stage manager? Let's take a closer look.

Early Morning

A stage manager's day typically starts early, often before the sun rises. They arrive at the theater before anyone else, turning on lights and making sure everything is in order for the day ahead. They review the schedule for the day, checking in with actors, directors, and crew members to ensure everyone is on the same page.

Mid-Morning

As rehearsals begin, the stage manager is in charge of coordinating everything that happens on stage. They make sure actors are in the right place at the right time, cueing them for entrances and exits, and making sure props are in place. They work closely with the lighting and sound designers to make sure all cues are properly executed. They also keep detailed notes on every aspect of the production, from the actors' movements to the lighting cues, to ensure everything is consistent and flows smoothly.

Afternoon

As the day progresses, the stage manager becomes even busier. They may need to make last-minute changes to the schedule or adjust the timing of certain cues. They also work with the actors to rehearse scenes, helping them perfect their performances. They oversee costume changes, ensuring actors have everything they need to make quick changes between scenes.

Evening

As showtime approaches, the stage manager is the calm in the chaos. They make sure all crew members are in place, that the set is properly secured, and that the actors are ready to take the stage. They give cues to the lighting and sound designers and make sure all backstage crew members are prepared for their tasks. During the show, they keep a watchful eye on everything, ensuring that each scene is executed flawlessly.

Late Night

After the performance is over, the stage manager's day is far from finished. They work with the crew to strike the set and make sure everything is put away properly. They review the day's notes and make any necessary changes to the next day's schedule. Finally, they lock up the theater and head home, ready to do it all again the next day.

Conclusion

Being a stage manager is a demanding and rewarding job. It requires a unique combination of organizational skills, creativity, and a willingness to work long hours. But for those who are passionate about theater, there's nothing quite like the thrill of bringing a production to life. So the next time you're at a theater performance, take a moment to appreciate the hard work and dedication of the stage manager who made it all possible.