The Winding Path of a Stage Manager’s Career
If you had told me a decade ago that I’d be where I am today, I probably would have laughed in your face. My career journey has been anything but linear – it’s been more of a winding, twisting path, full of surprises and unexpected detours. But you know what they say, “Life is what happens when you’re busy making other plans.”
As a seasoned stage manager, I’ve navigated the complexities of live performance in ways I never could have imagined. From working in prestigious theaters to cutting my teeth on scrappy indie productions, I’ve seen it all. And let me tell you, the role of a stage manager is anything but simple. It’s a delicate dance of juggling schedules, coordinating chaos, and keeping the show running smoothly, even when everything seems to be falling apart.
Embracing the Unpredictable: Lessons from the Stage
One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned over the years is that flexibility is key. In the world of live performance, nothing is ever set in stone. The script can change, the actors can get sick, and the set can collapse. And as the stage manager, it’s my job to keep a cool head and find a way to make it all work.
Take, for example, the time we had a major power outage just minutes before opening night. The entire theater was plunged into darkness, and the audience was already in their seats, eagerly awaiting the show. It was a moment of pure panic, but I knew I had to act fast. I gathered the cast and crew, and together, we came up with a plan to perform the show by candlelight. It was a bit unconventional, but the audience loved it, and we ended up pulling off one of the most memorable performances of the run.
Navigating the Complexities of Live Performance
While the unpredictable nature of live performance can be exhilarating, it also comes with its fair share of challenges. As a stage manager, I’ve had to develop a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the technical aspects of the production. From lighting cues to sound effects, every element has to be meticulously planned and executed.
One of the key tools in my arsenal is effective communication. As the linchpin of the production, I need to be able to coordinate seamlessly with the director, the designers, the actors, and the crew. It’s a delicate balance, but when it works, it’s a thing of beauty. I’ve learned to anticipate potential problems before they arise, and to constantly be on the lookout for ways to streamline the process.
The Importance of Adaptability
Another critical skill for a stage manager is adaptability. Things are constantly changing in the world of live performance, and you have to be able to roll with the punches. Whether it’s a last-minute script change or a sudden actor injury, I’ve had to learn to think on my feet and come up with creative solutions.
One of my favorite examples of this was a production we did of “Hamlet” a few years ago. Our lead actor fell ill just a week before opening night, and we had to scramble to find a replacement. Luckily, we had a talented understudy who was willing to step up to the challenge. But the real test came when, during a crucial scene, the new Hamlet accidentally knocked over a prop and sent it crashing to the floor. Without missing a beat, he improvised a line that seamlessly incorporated the mishap, and the audience was none the wiser.
Embracing the Joys of Live Performance
Despite the challenges, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of live performance. The energy of the audience, the adrenaline rush of a successful opening night, the camaraderie of the cast and crew – it’s all part of the magic that makes this job so special.
As I look back on my career, I’m amazed at how much I’ve grown and evolved. I’ve learned to embrace the unpredictable, to communicate effectively, and to think on my feet. And along the way, I’ve had the privilege of working with some of the most talented and passionate people in the industry.
If you’re considering a career in stage management, my advice to you is to follow your passion and embrace the journey. It may not be a straight line, but trust me, it’s one heck of a ride.
The Pros and Cons of Different Stage Management Paths
As a stage manager, you have a variety of career paths to choose from, each with its own unique set of pros and cons. Let’s take a closer look at a few of the options:
| Path | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Design Consultancy | – Rapid skill development through exposure to many projects and clients – Opportunity to work with experienced professionals and learn from them – Chance to explore different industries and travel |
– Lack of in-depth industry knowledge due to short project timelines – Less control over projects and potential for incomplete work – Possibility of being thrown into the middle of a client’s work with limited context |
| In-House Designer | – Deeper understanding of a specific industry or organization – Ability to see projects through from start to finish – Potential for company-sponsored skill development |
– Challenges in changing established team workflows – Difficulty in growing design’s importance and budget within the organization – Limited exposure to different design disciplines |
| Freelancer | – Freedom to choose the projects you want to work on – Ability to work remotely and have more control over your schedule – Potential to earn higher rates as an expert in your field |
– Lack of a consistent team environment and potential feelings of isolation – Uncertainty of finding continuous work and need to save for lean periods – Pressure to perform at a high level as the perceived expert |
| Start-up Designer | – Opportunity to have a significant impact and gain more responsibility early on – Chance to work closely with the startup’s mission and contribute to its success – Potential for rapid career growth if the startup succeeds |
– Messy and unpredictable work environment with constant changes – Risk of the startup failing and losing your job, especially in the early stages – Lack of structure and clear processes compared to larger organizations |
Remember, the path that’s right for you will depend on your personal preferences, career goals, and the stage you’re at in your professional journey. The key is to stay open-minded, adapt to the evolving landscape of the industry, and continuously seek out new opportunities to grow and challenge yourself.
Embracing the Unexpected: A Stage Manager’s Superpower
As a stage manager, I’ve learned that the unexpected is not something to be feared, but rather embraced. It’s the moments of chaos and unpredictability that truly test our mettle and bring out the best in us. By staying nimble, communicating effectively, and always being ready to adapt, we can navigate the complexities of live performance and deliver unforgettable experiences for our audiences.
So, if you’re considering a career in stage management, or if you’re already well on your way, remember to cherish the unexpected. It’s the moments when everything seems to be falling apart that often lead to the most remarkable and memorable moments on stage. And who knows, maybe one day, you’ll be the one telling a story about that time the power went out, and you saved the show.
