Stage Manager/Production Manager

Working Schedule

• Stage and Production Managers work full days, with nights and weekend work common. While working on the particular show they are employed by, they put in a lot of overtime. But once a show has completed its run, they could face downtime and must find other projects to work on. 

Typical Duties

Stage Manager (SM)

• Perform pre-production tasks, such as reviewing union rules, making a contact sheet, and reviewing the dimensions of the performance space
• Schedule and oversee rehearsals to ensure all elements run smoothly
• Use a prompt script to take detailed notes for blocking (i.e., where actors move on stage, lighting and sound cues, etc.), track props, and work with directors
• Calls cues for lighting, sound, and other technical aspects, so all elements come together as rehearsed
• Act as a central point of communication between the director, cast, and crew
• Relay important information; ensure everyone is “on the same page”
• Monitor performer and crew safety; perform safety checks
• Coordinate for the creation of costumes, wigs, and props
• Conduct pre-show warmups and manage backstage activities
• Check out Stage Management Resource for a comprehensive list of duties

Production Manager (PM)

• Create and maintain production budgets
• Ensure productions are “financially feasible”
• Schedule technical rehearsals; build schedules for set creation/load-ins/outs
• Interview and hire technical team members 
• Coordinate between departments (such as lighting, sound, costumes, and set)
• Respond to issues; ensure departments have the resources they need
• Manage venue logistics, such as checking if sets will fit in the venue space and liaising with venue staff
• Prepare technical elements to be ready for the Stage Manager during rehearsals and performances
• Procure applicable equipment for the times needed

Both the Stage Manager and Production Manager roles involve management and coordination. The SM primarily runs rehearsals and performances. The PM is in charge of broader production elements, ensuring resources, people, and schedules align to make the production possible. Depending on the size of the production, there may only be one person doing essentially both jobs! 

Additional Responsibilities

• Review scripts. Discuss ideas and potential problems with the directors, cast, and crew 
• Ensure the director’s creative vision is understood and captured
• Help find suitable venues
• Go over anticipated technical or logistical difficulties such as physical hazards requiring stunt coordination
• Stay engaged with all departments to make sure everyone is working cohesively   
• Approve set or stage designs, as applicable 
• Go over budgets and financial considerations before production starts. Ensure productions stay on schedule and within budget

Soft Skills

• Ability to motivate others 
• Active listening
• Calm under pressure
• Collaborative 
• Conceptualization skills
• Confidence 
• Conflict resolution skills
• Creativity
• Decisiveness
• Detail-oriented
• Flexibility
• Intuitive
• Leadership 
• Patience
• Persistence 
• Persuasiveness 
• Problem-solving skills
• Strong communication skills
• Team-building
• Visual and written storytelling

Technical Skills
Stage Manager

• Script analysis for technical cues
• Understanding of stage directions and terminology; knowledge of prompt books, rehearsal techniques and processes
• Mastery of cue-calling techniques
• Proficiency in using communication headsets and paging systems
• Ability to read and interpret lighting plots, sound plots, and set designs
• Knowledge of various stage management software (e.g., QLab, Stage Write)
• Familiarity with health and safety protocols for theatre; basic first-aid training

Production Manager:

• Understanding of technical riders and implications
• Ability to read ground plans, lighting plots, and technical schematics
• Knowledge of budgeting and financial tracking
• Familiarity with venue specifications/requirements
• Expertise in scheduling and timeline management
• Knowledge of various technical disciplines (lighting, sound, rigging, etc.)
• Understanding of contract negotiations and hiring processes
• Familiarity with health and safety regulations, including risk assessments
• Knowledge of equipment sourcing, rental, and purchasing
• Understanding of production workflows from pre-production to post-production

• Theatrical companies
• Broadway and Off-Broadway productions
• Opera companies
• Concert venues
• Television studios
• Film sets
• Theme parks
• Educational institutions (school and university productions)
• Sporting events
• Award ceremonies and gala events

Without Stage Managers, live performances would be in chaos every time the curtain rises! Their tasks are intricate and demand an impressive level of coordination and multitasking with production teams, directors, and tech crews. 

Live theater (or theatre, if you prefer) and other live events can be unpredictable, but SMs must ensure each performance goes off without a hitch. Hours can run long, especially during tech week, with a flurry of rehearsals and last-minute changes. They may also have to deal with frustrated actors or technical problems. 

Most shows have limited runs, so Stage Managers may have to juggle multiple projects to maintain a consistent income. The same goes for Production Managers, without whom productions would crumble! Their jobs involve a complex mesh of organizational and logistical challenges. 

PMs are deeply embedded in the pre-production phase, ensuring that everything from sets to sound equipment is ready for showtime. Again, hours can go long, with department meetings, budget reviews, and logistical or equipment issues. 

With the surge in high-budget streaming platforms, live productions and theatrical performances have seen a renaissance in their presentation. Brilliantly written plays, outstanding production designs, and good pay have enticed renowned actors who, in earlier times, might have stuck to film or TV deals. 

Producers are bringing on more Stage Managers and Production Managers to ensure shows run seamlessly and to bridge the gap between the vision of directors and the practical execution on stage.

From Broadway to touring productions, cruise ship performances, and exclusive live events, there's been an uptick in the quality and number of theatrical presentations. As cinema chains strive to pull audiences back, it seems the allure of live theatre is getting stronger. With their expertise now in greater demand, SMs and PMs are also playing pivotal roles in large festivals, corporate events, and specialized performances. 

Stage Managers and Production Managers likely had a flair for live productions early on. School involvement might have included plays or event coordination. They often emerge as reliable, diligent leaders in group tasks or school events, showing they can juggle many tasks and oversee broader projects.

Most demonstrate a blend of precision and practicality, excelling in roles that require communication and multitasking. They were likely inquisitive learners who were both creative and good with logistics and small details!