Assistant Stage Manager

Assistant Stage Manager


Description of the Position

The Assistant Stage Manager(s) (ASM) is responsible for assisting the Stage Manager. The ASM should help to keeping track of cast members, sets and miscellaneous details during rehearsals and production of a stage performance as directed by the Stage Manager. During pre-production, the ASM should keep cast and crew aware of the rehearsal schedule, aid in set construction and have knowledge of what is to take place on the stage during the show. On show nights, the ASM will be on headset on stage right or stage left. They are the eyes and ears to the Stage Manger positioned in the booth. They are responsible for responding to cues, overseeing the backstage area, and supporting actors in the wings.


List of Responsibilities

Pre-Production

    • Read the script.
    • Work with the Stage Manager to create and maintain the “Prompt Book” in a three-ringed binder. A copy of the script with available space for notes and other resources provided by Director. Details about the requirement of the prompt book are located on the STAGE MANAGER FORMS & INFO page
    • Attend weekly production team meetings. At meetings, record concerns or needs and communicate these to the Stage Manager.
    • Help Stage Manager set up rehearsal space, if needed.
    • Help with set construction and with all production teams. Be present at tech days on a weekly, if not daily, basis.
    • Help teach and train newer students working with power tools and set construction.
    • Report to Technical Director construction progress and needs.
    • Attend all rehearsals and perform duties at the rehearsal as requested by the Stage Manager and Directors (reading line cues, filling in for missing actors, tech work....)
    • Identify your Stage Left or Stage Right position. Become familiar with the set pieces, props, and entrances/ exits that occur on your assigned side.
    • Communicate with the PROGRAM EDITOR the crew assignments, cast list, and help to identify students who need to turn in bios.
    • Help keep up cast and crew moral! Have fun!


Tech Week/ Dress Rehearsal

  • Attend all rehearsals.
  • Record all cues in Production Book. Become extremely familiar with the script and the needs of the entire production.
  • Support the Stage Manager; offer help with their daily duties.
  • Set the stage for each run of the show.
  • Coordinate set changes. Give final call on headset when set is in place.
  • Be prepared to fill-in for the Stage Manager if needed while performing your position
  • Confine all headset conversations to cues, emergency situations and production questions. Limit all other talk.
  • Communicate with Stage Manager and directors promptly if problems arise.

Show Nights

  • Wear blacks and carry a small flashlight.
  • The ASM will complete the show night work identified on the ROUTINE SHEET.
  • Support the Stage Manager; help with the daily duties of the stage manager.
  • Set the stage for each night of the show.
  • Support and oversee all backstage work during the show.
  • Be stationed on stage left or stage right and wear a communication headset. Give final call on headset during set changes when the set is in place.
  • Confine all headset conversations to cues, emergency situations and production questions. Limit all other talk.
  • Communicate with Stage Manager promptly if problems arise.
  • Perform all post show duties. Make sure stage is set for opening the next day and all other materials are proper put away, turned off, and stored.
  • Supervise your assigned area during clean up. Report to Stage Manager when all tasks have been accomplished.
  • Assist other members of Production Team with their duties, if necessary.

ROUTINE SHEET

The stage manager and assistant stage managers will work together to identify the exact responsibilities and timeline of activities for the performance day. On the ROUTINE SHEET, the SM & ASMs will identify their specific responsibilities.

Strike

    • Help directors and Stage Manager maintain organization during strike.
    • Using a checklist, make sure your duties have been accomplished. Keep cast and crew occupied with appropriate tasks.
    • Check out with Stage Manager.
    • Compliment and thank crew.