How do you prepare for the transition from previews to opening night and beyond?

1 Review feedback

During previews, you should collect feedback from the director, the creative team, the cast, the crew, and the audience. This feedback can help you identify and solve any problems, make adjustments, and improve the quality of the show. You should review the feedback carefully and prioritize the changes that are necessary, feasible, and beneficial. You should also communicate the feedback clearly and respectfully to everyone involved, and document the changes in your prompt book.

2 Update paperwork

As you make changes during previews, you should also update your paperwork accordingly. This includes your cue sheets, blocking notes, prop lists, scene breakdowns, contact sheets, and any other documents that you use to manage the show. You should also distribute the updated paperwork to the relevant parties, such as the director, the designers, the cast, the crew, and the house staff. Updating your paperwork will help you avoid confusion, errors, and conflicts, and ensure that everyone is on the same page.

3 Rehearse changes

Before opening night, you should rehearse the changes that you made during previews with the cast and crew. This will help them get familiar with the new cues, blocking, props, costumes, or effects, and avoid any surprises or mistakes. You should also run a final dress rehearsal or a technical rehearsal to check that everything is working properly and smoothly. Rehearsing the changes will help you polish the show and boost the confidence of the performers and technicians.

4 Plan contingencies

Even after opening night, you should be prepared for any unexpected situations or emergencies that might occur during the run of the show. You should plan contingencies for possible scenarios, such as equipment failures, power outages, injuries, illnesses, absences, or disruptions. You should also have backup plans for your own role, such as having an assistant stage manager or a deputy stage manager who can take over if you are unable to perform your duties. Planning contingencies will help you cope with any challenges and ensure the safety and continuity of the show.

5 Maintain communication

Throughout the run of the show, you should maintain communication with all the people involved in the production. You should keep them informed of any changes, issues, or updates that might affect the show. You should also solicit and provide feedback, praise, and support to the cast and crew, and foster a positive and collaborative atmosphere. You should also communicate with the house staff, the box office, the marketing team, and the press, and coordinate with them on any matters related to the show. Maintaining communication will help you manage the show effectively and efficiently.

6 Enjoy the show

Finally, you should enjoy the show that you have worked hard to create and present. You should be proud of your achievements and contributions as a stage manager, and celebrate with your colleagues and collaborators. You should also appreciate the feedback and responses from the audience, and learn from their reactions and opinions. You should also take care of yourself and your well-being, and balance your work and personal life. Enjoying the show will help you sustain your passion and enthusiasm for stage management.