So I have been asked to stage manage Little Shop of Horrors at a local theatre. I have experienced a lot of stage managing but never done it before. Anyone that has tips/ suggestions??? Thanks!
I’m a high schooler right now and just started stage managing last year, and it’s been the most amazing experience. Is definitely scary, and while I’m not professional I can offer a little advice.
If you’re an assistant sm, don’t worry! Feel free to ask questions to the head sm, you’ll pick up everything pretty quickly.
If you’re the head/only sm, that’s gonna be fine too! Tell the director this is your first time, and you’re really excited to help, and don’t be afraid to talk to them and ask them questions. From the sm work I’ve done, it’s a lot of writing all actor blocking, set changes, etc, and knowing pretty much everything that’s happening in the show. It’ll be scary at first, but you’ll definitely get the hang of it and you’ll do a great job!
Every community theater handles their stage managers differently as to what kind of responsibilities they have. The best thing? Have a sit down with the director and find out what she expects of you. And as another poster said: never be afraid to ask for help, for clarification.
If we're not having fun, then why are we doing it?
These are DISCUSSION boards, not mutual admiration boards. Discussion only occurs when we are willing to hear what others are thinking, regardless of whether it is alignment to our own thoughts.
