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Stage management stands at the heart of every live performance, serving as the conductor of a behind-the-scenes symphony. Our roles encapsulate the coordination of every element of a production, from rehearsals to performances, and encompasses a myriad of responsibilities, from meticulously organizing rehearsals and coordinating technical aspects to overseeing the execution of the director’s vision during performances. A stage manager is the linchpin that ensures everything operates seamlessly. In essence, stage management can be defined for me in three words: service, translation, and orchestration. Our success hinges upon a diverse set of skills, combining technical expertise with interpersonal finesse. Organizational skills lay the groundwork, allowing for the smooth flow of rehearsals and performances. Effective communication serves as the conduit for conveying instructions and liaising with diverse teams. Meanwhile, adept problem-solving remains pivotal in navigating unexpected challenges that arise, ensuring quick and astute decisions.
The prospect of formal education in stage management offers structured learning through a specialized program with specific applications to study leadership and take risks in a protected environment. It provides a comprehensive understanding of theater history, production techniques, and management practices. However, it might lack the real-world expectations in a high-stakes and dynamic environment of theater productions. Theoretical knowledge needs supplementation with practical exposure to prepare aspiring stage managers for the multifaceted demands of the field. Most theatrical programs, and the stage management program I went through offered practical laboratories for me to study, practice, and understand my role as a stage manager with great detail.
Inversely, on-the-job learning immerses individuals in the throes of actual productions, offering hands-on experience and practical insights. This experiential learning fosters adaptability, quick decision-making, and the ability to navigate the unpredictability inherent in live performances. Yet, without the theoretical foundation provided by formal education, there might be gaps in understanding industry standards and best practices. Additionally, the perspective and context for approaching different types of work might be better understood with on-the-job experiences where you have to use past insights to solve the same problems in different environments.
Both pathways—academic or experiential—have their limitations. Those following traditional education might initially struggle to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios, whereas individuals solely relying on work experience may lack a comprehensive understanding of fundamental theories and industry norms. Striking a balance between the two becomes imperative for building a well-rounded skill set as a stage manager. We must continuously work towards growth and adapting with the industry.
Conversations with seasoned professors and experts in stage management studies shed light on the invaluable role of formal education. Educators stress the significance of a structured curriculum that not only imparts theoretical knowledge but also provides practical experiences through industry connections, internships, and real-world productions. Academic training equips students with a foundational understanding while nurturing critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and self-reflection.
Exploring the experiences of individuals who traversed the path primarily through practical learning reveals a wealth of knowledge gained in the trenches of live productions. They recount the challenges faced, the triumphs achieved, and the lessons learned without the scaffolding of formal education. Their journey showcases the depth of skills and expertise honed through hands-on experience, yet it highlights the need for a comprehensive theoretical understanding to supplement practical knowledge.
While I don’t think that gaining formal education is a requirement for building a successful career as a stage manager, it is a great step towards honing your technical skills, working on your leadership style, reflecting on how to improve by taking big risks so that you can test different approaches to find ways that work for you. Networking, seeking mentorship from seasoned professionals, and embracing a lifelong commitment to learning are other assets of gaining education and has played a part in my own journey to become a thriving stage manager in the field.
Blending Education and Experience
The intersection of academic knowledge and hands-on experience lays the groundwork for a holistic skill set. While formal education furnishes the theoretical underpinnings, practical learning imparts adaptability, agility, and a keen understanding of the nuanced intricacies prevalent in live productions. Embracing a blend of these facets becomes pivotal in shaping adept and versatile stage managers capable of thriving in the ever-evolving theater landscape.
Our commitment to blending the two serves as an exhortation for aspiring stage managers to adopt a growth-oriented mindset, and emphasizes the significance of continuous learning, be it through formal education programs, on-the-job experiences, mentorship, or industry networking. Embracing a culture of lifelong learning equips individuals to navigate the dynamic challenges of the industry, fostering innovation and excellence.
The path to becoming a competent and successful stage manager is not a linear trajectory but rather a multifaceted journey. Aspiring stage managers must recognize that the amalgamation of theoretical knowledge from education and practical skills from on-the-job experiences forms the bedrock of success. This integrated approach empowers us to navigate the complexities of the industry with confidence and finesse.
It’s important to acknowledge here that we will take our own paths, make our own decisions about how we want to learn and grow as a stage manager. Forge your own unique path by embracing the synergy between education and experience. Education looks like many different things these days with access to all kinds of materials both formally at a university and online in multiple formats. Ultimately, the knowledge you take in will aid in your ability to be a great leader.
The dynamic nature of the industry necessitates a constant exchange of ideas, innovation, and adaptation. By fostering an environment conducive to exploration and innovation, the stage management community can evolve and thrive collectively. By combining the strengths of both formal education and on-the-job learning, aspiring stage managers and established stage managers alike can embark on a constant journey towards excellence.
Feature Image Credit: £¥€$ by Ontroerend Goed
Also by Bryan Runion:
Navigating Stress: Identifying Stressors and Effective Coping Strategies
“Why should I care?” How Empathy and Curiosity can help us see “The Big Picture”
Bryan Runion is a professional Production Stage Manager whose credits include: Drawn to Life (Cirque du Soleil and Disney), Netflix’s Stranger Things: The Experience, Duel Reality (7 Fingers), La Perle (Dragone), The Voice of Tolerance (The Ministry of Education, UAE); Mastercard Experiences (Mastercard); Everybody Black (World Premiere), Queens (La Jolla Playhouse), Ken Ludwig’s The Gods of Comedy (The Old Globe), TEDx (Chula Vista), Mark Morris Dance Company, Joey Alexander Trio, Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain (La Jolla Music Society), The Bridges of Madison County (Arkansas Rep). Bryan earn his M.F.A. at The University of California, San Diego and his B.A. at The University of Arkansas at Little Rock. He is a proud member of Actors’ Equity Association and The Stage Managers’ Association.
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