Stage Management

Can you create a detailed props list?

You will need to listen to Chapter 8 very carefully to identify when an actor should have a prop, for example the Master's list of orders to the servant.

You should research the period of the prop to ensure you get something that fits with the show/character. Find images to show what the prop should look like and maybe even a potential source, where you are likely to get such a prop.


Email your work to paul.graham-bell@leedscitycollege.ac.uk

We are looking forward to seeing your list!

Props List are used to coordinate all prop adds and cuts during the course of rehearsal and tech. On shows with a lot of props, this is a useful way to make sure that all items are being accounted for.

How do we manage a performance?

In order to stage a production there is quite a lot to organise!

During the rehearsal period, the stage management team (often composed of 3 – a stage manager, a deputy stage manager and an assistant stage manager) acts as the lynch pin between the artistic process developing in the rehearsal room and the people physically building, sewing, assembling and making the production beyond the rehearsal room.

Stage Management are there to prevent ANYTHING from adversely affecting the production. Attention to detail and good communication skills are essential here.

Once the show has opened, the Stage Management team is responsible for the management of each evening's performance. They ensure that the production continues to run with all aspects of it kept as intended by the director and designers. The DSM (Deputy Stage Manager) will also generally cue the show, giving calls and ‘GOs’ to the actors and all departments, enabling the changing of scenery, lighting and sound to be coordinated. The ASM will frequently be 'running the wings', i.e. running other backstage aspects, particularly props.

In rehearsals the Deputy Stage Manager records all blocking, light, sound and set change cues, in a master copy of the script called the prompt book. The information in the prompt book also helps the Deputy Stage Manager to run the technical rehearsals, calling each technical cue in turn to determine precisely how it needs to be timed to coordinate with the onstage action.

Stage Managers have several key responsibilities and tasks to perform in each phase of a production, including

  • scheduling and running rehearsals

  • marking out the dimensions of the set on the floor of the rehearsal room

  • sourcing and making and managing all the props needed for the show

  • organising meetings, costume/wig fittings and coaching sessions

  • making sure rehearsal props and furnishings are available for the actors

  • communicating the director's wishes to designers and crafts people

  • notifying the designers and crafts people of changes made in rehearsals

  • coordinating the work of the stage crew

  • calling cues and possibly actors' entrances during performance

  • overseeing the entire show each time it is performed in conjunction with the director

Student Stage Mangers perform their pre-show checks to ensure the show runs smoothly

LCC Backstage Stage Management tutor Lyndsey Gardiner

Lyndsey's top tips

There are a some special skills that Stage Managers need to be trained in, but for the most part the best Stage Managers are hardworking, kind, organised, pay great attention to detail , understand and respect both the creative and technical elements of a show. Stage Management teams work with almost everyone involved in a production , so being a 'people person' is important. No job is to big or too small. Even the most senior of Stage Managers should always be willing to sweep a stage floor or make a cup of tea!