Image by John Utton @ Peel Of Fortune
Like anything with me it's took me a while to realise that I'm actually quite good at my job. Iv'e staged managed for just over four years now and I kinda just fell into it. predominantly within Burlesque and Cabaret. Four years ago I got a message from my cousin Tawny F*cking Kay. it read something along the lines 'you've worked in theatre right? can you help kitten for my show in March?' I'm not going to pretend I reluctantly agreed because I practically bit her hand off. Iv'e always been interested in Burlesque, naively at the beginning more for the style of it all, the glitter, the image the lifestyle. what I have learnt in the last four years is that Burlesque is so much more than this and so much more spectacular. it's life changing, political and empowering but that's a whole new blog post. so after four years of wiping cream from the floors, sweeping glitter and checking and re-checking and RE-CHECKING set up's I'm going to share with you my Five Top Tip's to stage managing.
ONE- Introduce yourself.
Sounds obvious right? but you need to know your team as well as your performers. Introduce yourself to the venue staff, sound and lighting. If you are meeting someone for the first time and has not been specified before hand ask for peoples pronouns. If you struggle with this introduce yourself with your pronouns this will invite others to use theirs. If I am responsible for collecting peoples tech before hand I will request pronouns on the tech. When you introduce yourself ask for someones performers name, if you can not pronounce it ASK AGAIN performers would much rather you ask than get it wrong. you can also ask if they prefer being referred to by their performer name or their birth name.
TWO-Check your tech, don't be afraid to ask questions.
I will re-read my tech sheets at least ten times a show I always cross reference these with the performers in person to make sure that these are correct. If you are unsure don't be afraid to ask again, there's nothing wrong with having something explained a couple of times. I'm a visual learner and don't understand written word very well, I don't retain information well that way. I often ask the performer to physically show me their set up in the run through if I'm unsure.
THREE- Know your props
Have a conversation about the props and specify with the performer if they would like to keep hold of the items before they perform or if you are able to store them backstage. Burlesque has a quick turn around so strategically placing props back stage can make a massive difference and make your pick up's and set up's swift. I also ask if there's any items that are particularly expensive/of importance. OF COURSE you need to be careful with all property but it's always nice to have a heads up.
FOUR- Know your timing's.
If you have ever worked with me you'll know that I'm often able to get the times down to the minute. I like to be precise. It's your responsibility to make sure that the performers are all ready on time. Be direct but not rude. It's okay, sometimes you do need to say 'come on people, we need to get moving' it's okay that's your job. Make note of the intervals and how long they are. If you are taking a break make sure you are always back in at least three minutes before the next half.
FIVE- Check in.
Whenever I'm stage managing I'm constantly checking in on the performers, all it takes is a simple 'Is there anything anyone needs?' it makes a massive difference. I also ask the producer if they are happy with everything. This not only opens the floor for people to ask for help but it also gives you a bit of reassurance that you are on it.
I love stage managing for Burlesque and Cabaret. I love how appreciated the stage managers are and that they are actively encouraged to be part of the performance. I actually love the pressure and it's usually when at my best.
