How do you balance art and logistics in stage management?

2 Communicate and collaborate

The second step to balance art and logistics in stage management is to communicate and collaborate with the different departments and people involved in the production. You need to establish clear and respectful channels of communication with the director, the performers, the designers, the technicians, the crew, and the venue staff. You need to share information, updates, feedback, and requests in a timely and professional manner. You also need to foster a collaborative and supportive environment, where everyone can contribute their ideas, skills, and opinions. You need to listen, negotiate, and compromise when necessary, but also be assertive and decisive when needed.

3 Organize and document

The third step to balance art and logistics in stage management is to organize and document everything related to the production. You need to create and maintain various documents, such as the script, the stage manager's book, the rehearsal reports, the production meetings minutes, the contact lists, the call sheets, the cue sheets, the blocking notes, and the performance reports. You need to use tools, such as calendars, spreadsheets, checklists, and apps, to keep track of the tasks, deadlines, budgets, and resources. You need to store and backup your documents in a safe and accessible way, such as in a binder, a folder, or a cloud service.

4 Prepare and adapt

The fourth step to balance art and logistics in stage management is to prepare and adapt for any situation that may arise during the production. You need to plan ahead for the technical rehearsals, the dress rehearsals, the previews, and the performances. You need to check and test all the equipment, props, costumes, and effects before each show. You need to brief and train the performers, the crew, and the venue staff on their roles and responsibilities. You also need to be ready to deal with any problems or changes that may occur, such as injuries, illnesses, absences, malfunctions, delays, or emergencies. You need to have contingency plans, backup options, and emergency kits at hand.

5 Balance and prioritize

The fifth step to balance art and logistics in stage management is to balance and prioritize your own workload and well-being. You need to manage your time, energy, and stress levels effectively. You need to delegate, outsource, or eliminate tasks that are not essential or that can be done by others. You need to focus on the most important and urgent tasks first, and then move on to the less critical ones. You also need to take care of yourself, physically, mentally, and emotionally. You need to eat well, sleep well, exercise, relax, and have fun. You need to seek and accept help, support, and feedback from others.

6 Learn and improve

The sixth and final step to balance art and logistics in stage management is to learn and improve from each experience. You need to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of your stage management, as well as the feedback and results of the production. You need to identify the areas that you did well, and the areas that you can improve. You need to celebrate your achievements, and acknowledge your mistakes. You also need to seek and apply new knowledge, skills, and techniques that can enhance your stage management. You need to keep learning, growing, and evolving as a stage manager.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?