Your musical’s stage manager plays a crucial role during tech week, and if you don’t fully understand their expectations, and make sure they understand them as well, you will just be putting added stress on your plate. Stop being so greedy with the stress!!! You need to be a team player… let others have a little bit.
So, what are the stage manager’s responsibilities?
Well, your stage manager should be ensuring that all technical and artistic elements come together smoothly and that the production is ready for its opening night by providing organization, communication, and leadership during this crucial phase of the production process.
Here are the primary responsibilities of a stage manager during tech week:
Scheduling and Coordination:
The stage manager can help create, but definitely executes, a detailed schedule for tech week, including the timing of each technical rehearsal, costume fittings, set changes, mic checks, and other crucial activities. They coordinate with all members of the production team, including the director, designers, technicians, and actors, to make sure everyone is on the same page regarding the schedule.
Safety:
Safety is a paramount concern during tech week, especially with the introduction of technical elements like lighting, sound, and set changes. The stage manager ensures that all safety protocols are followed, conducts safety briefings, and monitors the well-being of the cast and crew.
Documentation:
Leading up to and throughout tech week, the stage manager maintains detailed records of the production. This includes creating a "prompt book" or script with all cues and technical details, documenting any changes or notes from rehearsals, and keeping track of the timing of each scene and technical element.
Running Rehearsals:
The stage manager runs the technical rehearsals during tech week. They cue the lighting, sound, and other technical elements according to the script and the director's vision. This involves calling out cues to the lighting and sound operators, ensuring that set changes happen smoothly, and maintaining overall control of the rehearsal.
Communication:
The stage manager serves as the central communication hub during tech week. They relay information between the director and the technical team, ensuring that any adjustments or changes to the production are communicated effectively. This includes conveying notes and feedback from the director to the actors and technical crew.
Problem-Solving:
Tech week can be a time when unexpected issues arise, such as technical malfunctions, costume problems, or last-minute changes. The stage manager is responsible for troubleshooting and problem-solving in real time to keep the rehearsals running smoothly.
As you can see, your stage manager should be taking a huge portion of the reins when your musical gets to tech week, bringing together all the disparate elements of the production and making sure they work in harmony…. cause after all, this is a musical! A-Zinga!
With your stage manager’s help, you will have a polished and successful performance for the audience on opening night.
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