A Handbook for Beginning Stage Managers at Kalamazoo College
Abstract
The stage manager is a crucial member of the
production team in any theatrical organization. This
person is responsible for the smooth running of the
production both onstage and backstage. The calm, steady
influence provided by the stage manager throughout the
rehearsal process greatly enhances the creative efforts of
the actors, director, and designers.
Organizational and leadership abilities are essential
qualities for the future student stage manager. Other
characteristics include the ability to accept responsibility,
to remain calm in crisis situations, and to think
ahead and anticipate. In addition, consideration for
actors and crew, observational capabilities, punctuality,
dependability, a sense of humor, and communication skills,
aid in efficiently coordinating people, time, and space. I felt I could best learn these skills or some
semblance of them, in a professional theatre. Accordingly
I arranged a stage management internship at the Hartford
Stage, one of the foremost professional, regional theatre
companies in the country. Working with professionals
expanded my general knowledge of theatre and of stage
management in particular. I am greatly indebted to
Hartford Stage for the wonderful learning experience it
has provided me.During my experiences at Kalamazoo College I felt
there were few resources for the student stage manager.
The lack of understanding of the stage manager's role and
the tasks the stage manager must undertake to pave the way
for a successful production prompted me to concentrate on
the basic duties of the stage manager in an educational
institution. The process of assembling this handbook has
clarified for me the role of the stage manager in mounting
a production. I sincerely hope it benefits future student
stage managers in a similar manner.
The handbook is designed for the student who has
perhaps been involved in drama in high school and has
participated in at least one or two productions here at
Kalamazoo College. This internship, along with my
previous experiences at Kalamazoo College and at
Northlight Theatre, has provided the foundation for this
handbook.
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