What are the best practices for timing scene changes as a stage manager in theatrical productions?

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As a stage manager in theatrical productions, you are responsible for ensuring that the show runs smoothly and safely, from rehearsals to performances. One of your main tasks is to coordinate and time the scene changes, which are the transitions between different settings, locations, or moods in the script. Scene changes can be challenging, especially if they involve complex movements, props, lighting, sound, or special effects. In this article, you will learn some of the best practices for timing scene changes as a stage manager, and how to avoid common pitfalls and problems.

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1 Plan ahead

The first step to timing scene changes effectively is to plan ahead. You need to read the script carefully and identify all the scene changes, as well as the requirements and constraints for each one. For example, how much time do you have to change the scenery, props, and costumes? How many crew members and actors are involved? What are the cues and signals for starting and ending the change? You should also consult with the director, the designer, and the technical team to understand their vision and expectations for the scene changes, and to coordinate the logistics and resources. You should create a detailed scene breakdown, a cue sheet, and a running order that document all the information and instructions for each scene change.

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Linda Williams

Former manager of medical document scanning @ Gorwood Systems, RI 1998-2016, retired. Reiki Practitioner. Theatrical Consultant.
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To all of these good points I would add, speaking directly to the actors involved in the upcoming scene. The crew needs to know exactly where each prop is set. The crew also needs to COLLECT the item(s) from the actor(s) if they were instructed to carry them offstage after their scene is completed. All props need to be placed back in the props holding area until needed and organized by scene/time/cues.

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Riette Hayes-Davies

Creative Director - Visitor Attractions, Interactives, Events, and Themed Entertainment Designer
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Rehearsal. Work with the crew to find the best way of storing, pre-setting and manoeuvring items of scenery, and the ten getting them off and packing them away. If you are doing it to music then tie it to the music where possible. In some musicals extra music was actually written to cover a complex scene change.

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Buddy Brennan

Coaching actors and public speakers. Produced playwright. Theatre director and filmmaker
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Treat the scene changes like any other part of the show. Do your preparation in the planning phase, block (choreograph) them like every other moment, rehearse them and keep asking the team for ways to make them better (better for me is shorter and less noticeable). The rehearsal of the scene changes should be given a respectful amount of time in the schedule to make them work but it also shows the balance of the crew that you respect the work they need to do. Moreover include everyone that needs to be a part of the rehearsal so all elements are worked on - this might involve some cast and the director too.

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2 Rehearse and refine

The second step to timing scene changes effectively is to rehearse and refine. You need to practice the scene changes with the crew and the actors, and to monitor and record the time it takes to complete each one. You should also check for any potential issues or risks, such as safety hazards, technical glitches, or human errors. You should communicate clearly and consistently with everyone involved, and give feedback and directions as needed. You should also be flexible and adaptable, and be ready to make adjustments or modifications if something is not working or if the director or the designer request changes. You should aim to make the scene changes as smooth, quick, and seamless as possible, without compromising the quality or the integrity of the show.

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STO'M Poet

POETRY AND ACTING
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I found that being able to read music is so helpful, counting the beats - making it all seem like a concerto! Both an acting piece and written music are artistic productions, and this means every moment is balanced and in time!

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3 Execute and evaluate

The third step to timing scene changes effectively is to execute and evaluate. You need to execute the scene changes with precision and confidence during the performances, and to ensure that everyone follows the plan and the cues. You should also evaluate the scene changes after each performance, and identify any areas for improvement or correction. You should also solicit feedback from the director, the designer, the technical team, the crew, and the actors, and listen to their suggestions or concerns. You should also acknowledge and appreciate the efforts and contributions of everyone involved in the scene changes, and celebrate the successes and achievements. You should always strive to improve your skills and knowledge as a stage manager, and to learn from your experiences and challenges.

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Buddy Brennan

Coaching actors and public speakers. Produced playwright. Theatre director and filmmaker
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Review the scene changes after each performance just as you would the performance of the actors and lighting team and sound team and and and ... The review keeps all participants aware that they are important and that they need to do well for the overall show to do well. Make sure you LISTEN to the team as you review them; they might make things easier and better for the show if you listen to new ideas, comments, concern and even come complaints.

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4 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?

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Buddy Brennan

Coaching actors and public speakers. Produced playwright. Theatre director and filmmaker
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Never underestimate the importance of a well executed scene change. It is a very important performance within the show - granted it is a performance that you hope the audience does not notice happening and you most likely need it to be as short as possible but that in itself is part of the show. Make sure you thank, acknowledge and reward the team for doing well. It is so important that they know how well they are doing and that their work is appreciated!

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Chalethia Williams

Actor at Actors' Equity Association
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As a director also, my thoare that the director as the first word of advise on fixing the scene changes. They are part of the production and the director should make the needed changes to insure everything is smooth and everyone is safe.

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What are the best practices for timing scene changes as a stage manager in theatrical productions?

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1 Plan ahead

2 Rehearse and refine

3 Execute and evaluate

4 Here’s what else to consider

Theatrical Production

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What are the best practices for timing scene changes as a stage manager in theatrical productions?

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1 Plan ahead

2 Rehearse and refine

3 Execute and evaluate

4 Here’s what else to consider

Theatrical Production

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