Effective stage management relies not only on technical prowess but also on strong leadership skills. In my own awareness journey and research into developing my own unique stage management style (the way I want to lead and work with others), vulnerability played a central role in shaping my approach and communication style and, ultimately, the […]
Pammy writes about how she makes space for mental health breaks and ways to prioritize your mental health while working on a cruise ship. She has been working on cruise ships for over five years in a variety of positions, but most recently on Virgin Voyages for the past three years as a Production Stage […]
Throughout my journey towards becoming a Stage Manager and honing my leadership skills, I’ve encountered several books that have played a pivotal role in shaping my approach to leadership and understanding of the world. These books, while not all explicitly focused on leadership, have served as the cornerstone for my worldview. They have provided invaluable […]
As a professional stage manager, navigating the complexities of production while battling feelings of inadequacy when we don’t quite hit the mark can often feel like a balancing act on a high wire. Feeling like an imposter and like I don’t deserve to be where I am, or that I am not good enough are […]
Leadership hinges upon the intricate interplay of human interactions, perceptions, and experiences. In exploring the landscape of effective leadership, the framework of phenomenology resonates with me. Phenomenology unveils the essence of consciousness and the intricate layers of how individuals perceive and engage with their realities. Within the context of leadership, phenomenology serves as a compelling […]
Defining Stage Management 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 […]
Our industry is a dynamic field full of creativity, innovation, and amazing people. However, the glamour often conceals the immense pressures and unique stressors that accompany working in this high-octane industry. From tight deadlines to erratic schedules and intense scrutiny, stage managers face a myriad of challenges that can significantly impact our mental and emotional […]
How to read a stage plot is something one learns from almost their first day on the job in the industry. A stage plot is a day-to-day occurrence for anyone who works within music venues. These documents often depict bands and performers of various types on the stage and what they will need to make the show happen on that stage. For some bands, it is as simple as a basic drum kit set up, a D.I. (direct input) box for their keyboard, another D.I. for the guitar play, and enough microphones to cover anyone doing vocals. When you start getting into the major leagues however, stage plots can often require more. The opposite can sometimes be said for performers just starting out in the industry.
Introduction Last year at USITT, I attended four seminars about Artificial Intelligence, all about using A.I. image generators to inspire or generate contents for design projects. There was one conversation I found especially fascinating: “Do you think A.I. will eventually replace designers?” “No, but I think designers who use A.I. will eventually replace those who […]
In this November edition of Half-Hour, I’ll discuss the significance of culture, elucidating how it can improve employee experiences and foster talent retention. We will delve into the unique challenges and opportunities the entertainment industry presents and examine how a positive workplace culture can address these challenges. Culture is pivotal in shaping the work environment, […]
In this October edition of Half-Hour, I am discussing show calling and how the role of the show caller might change depending on the type of production you are working on, and what considerations need to be made in certain scenarios, and what expectations to have going into these scenarios. I’ve been thinking about how […]
As of 22 September, the Actors’ Equity Association has recognised a new title for its members: Production Assistants. This is the first time in decades the union has supported a new role within itself and the first time Production Assistants have unionised.
I asked a friend and colleague, Helen Moreau, who has Stage Managed for several Ballet Companies such as American Ballet Theatre, Orlando Ballet, The Washington Ballet, and is currently the Production Stage Manager at Nashville Ballet, to write about the nuances of being a Stage Manager for a ballet production and what a typical production […]
Stage managing can be a tough job, but most of us stage managers love it (most of the time). Finding stage management jobs, however, can be tough. It’s draining, challenging, and can be very disheartening. Every time I closed a show (and I’ve closed many Broadway shows), I’d get a sick feeling in the pit […]
In this week’s edition, I am discussing the role we define for ourselves as a stage manager and nurturing a stage management style. We hold a pivotal position as a stage manager, acting as a conduit for the entire production, the glue that binds all elements together. The analogy I use most is a bicycle […]
In this week’s edition, I am discussing conflict. Conflict can quickly become an issue in the workplace and often arise due to differences in opinion, misunderstandings, or even personality clashes. Conflicts not resolved effectively can lead to decreased productivity, low morale, and employee turnover. However, disputes can be resolved with the right approach. Here are […]
The theatre industry has seen a lot of challenges in the past few years, but these trials revealed that live stage performances are more important now than ever. Our post “10 Lessons from 2020 about Theatre & Stage Management” emphasizes that theatre is essential; as an art, it reflects a society’s cultures and values and […]
Stage managing can be a tough job, but most of us stage managers love it (most of the time). Finding stage management jobs, however, can be tough. It’s draining, challenging, and can be very disheartening. Every time I closed a show (and I’ve closed many Broadway shows), I’d get a sick feeling in the pit […]
In this week’s edition, my dear friend and colleague, Niko Lambros Smith, writes about what approaches have allowed him to make genuine connections with individual people and how that contributes to team building, especially on large-scale productions. It’s amazing how small gestures promote a sense of belonging and commitment to working together. I hope you […]
As a stage manager in the fast-paced world of live entertainment, success depends on much more than just managing the technical aspects of a production. It requires a proactive approach, a keen eye for detail, and the ability to navigate challenges seamlessly. One of the key tools for achieving excellence in this role is goal […]
In this week’s edition, I’m discussing show stops and emergency situations. Sometimes things don’t go according to plan and the show cannot go on due to an artist injury, a technical issue, or unforeseen circumstance that could be out of your control. We can prepare for these situations and make plans for how our team […]
In this week’s edition, I am discussing hard conversations. I am offering an outline for approaching a hard conversation from a factual vantage point. Hard conversations can be about anything, but most of the time they are about a conflict you experienced with them, a miscommunication, or it could be something that you’re dealing with […]
Working in the entertainment industry, especially for large-scale acrobatic circus shows had been my life’s dream. A dream which I had, over the years, painstakingly realized. I had found the backstage experience exhilarating and highly addictive. Magical. In the end, I decided to say goodbye. Yet, how do you let go of something that lives and breathes in every fibre of your body?
This past June, concert touring veteran Lance “KC” Jackson celebrated 44 consecutive years in the live entertainment industry. The many artists KC has worked with include Luther Vandross, Boyz II Men, New Kids On The Block, Justin Bieber, and he is currently on the road as Production Stage Manager for Earth, Wind and Fire with Santana on the Miraculous Supernatural Tour. In this interview that he gave for PLSN (Projection Lights & Staging News) he tells us about his fascinating touring career.
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