Stage Manager job description

Job description of a Stage Manager

The Stage Manager is responsible for coordinating theatrical productions from rehearsals to performances, working alongside the director to ensure that the production is successful. This involves managing rehearsals, actors, technicians, props and costume fittings, as well as liaising with front of house staff and the director.

A stage manager needs to have a good understanding of both the technical and artistic elements of a performance so that they can ensure it is delivered exactly to the director’s requirements. They will be involved from the rehearsal stage through to the live performances, where they will be on hand to deal with any emergencies or issues that may hinder the show.

An essential skill for Stage managers is people management, as it is their role to coordinate all aspects of a theatre company to ensure the successful delivery of the performance.

This Stage Manager job description example includes the list of most important Stage Manager duties and responsibilities as shown below. It can be modified to fit the specific Stage Manager profile you're trying to fill as a recruiter or job seeker.

Stage Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Stage Manager job description should contain a variety of functions and roles including:

Arranging costume and wig fittings;
Distributing information to other theatre departments;
Setting up and running rehearsal schedules;
Procuring all props, furniture and set dressings. In small companies, the theatre stage manager may also assist in set construction;
Managing the props and possibly the design budgets and liaising with the production manager regarding costs;
Ensuring the company’s welfare and maintaining a good working knowledge of all relevant health and safety, legislation and good working practice;
Running the backstage and onstage areas during performances;
Liaising with the director, stage personnel and other technical departments, e.g. costume, lighting, sound;
Supervising the ‘get in’ to the theatre, when the set, lighting and sound are installed, and the ‘get out’, when all the equipment is removed;
Compiling and operating prompt copy – also known as the ‘prompt script’ or ‘the book’ – which notes actors’ moves and the requirements for props, lighting and sound;
Making changes to the set between scene changes, prompting actors and cueing technicians;
Calling actors for rehearsals and performances;
During a long run, maintaining and replacing props and costumes as required;
Liaising with resident staff at other performance venues (if touring).

Stage Manager Requirements / Skills / Qualifications

Stage Manager job description should include these common skills and qualifications:

A bachelor's degree in Drama or another relevant field.
Ability to remain calm under pressure.
Ability to multitask under pressure.
Excellent interpersonal skills.
Excellent organizational skills.

As a hiring manager, recruiting an ideal Stage Manager starts with crafting a good job description. Use this Stage Manager job description template to save yourself time and help you attract the most qualified candidates. Feel free to revise it to meet your specific needs.

Job seekers interviewing for the role of a Stage Manager may also reference it in preparation for the interview.

Stage Manager Job Description

Job description of a Stage Manager

Stage Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Stage Manager Requirements / Skills / Qualifications

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