How to Get a Job as a Stage Manager

How to Get a Job in the Spotlight... Sort Of

Working as a stage manager for plays and musicals can be lucrative on both a personal and professional level. It doesn't matter if you're stage managing for a college, a local community theater show or on Broadway--it can be a tough job, but it can earn you a lot of cash.

Things You'll Need

• "Backstage" (a trade newspaper)
• Large binder
• Access to a copy machine
• Office supplies
• First-aid kit
• Email account

Instructions

1. It is helpful to have prior experience in stage managing before pursuing a job stage managing a production, but it's not always necessary. If possible, stage manage local high school and college productions to gain experience. Put a resume together of some of your best stage managing experience.

2. Look in the trade newspaper "Backstage" (which can be purchased at many newsstands and bookstores), Backstage.com or Playbill.com to look for stage management jobs in your area. With the exception of Broadway and some Off-Broadway stage management jobs, many will offer a lump sum of money upon completion of the show rather than a weekly salary.

3. Upon your stage management interview, show the director some samples of your work. Examples of your prompt book should be organized with the lighting and sound queues clearly marked with different colors and numbers, as well as neatly written blocking notes for each character on stage. You will need to purchase a first-aid kit when you are hired, but if you already have one, bring it along to see if they would like any extra first-aid items included for the safety of the particular show.

4. If you are given the job, be sure to collect as many email addresses and phone numbers of the cast and crew before rehearsals start, because you will be solely in charge of keeping in touch with everyone involved in the production.

5. Before the first rehearsal, have copies of the script available to each member of the cast and crew, and have sign-in sheets ready for each rehearsal.

Tips & Warnings

• Stage managers who work on Broadway belong to the Actors' Equity Association.

Resources

• Check for stage management jobs at Playbill.
• Backstage's website for more contact information on getting your dream job.