How do you collaborate with other departments or stakeholders to ensure a safe and smooth production?

1 Communicate clearly and consistently

Communication is key to any successful collaboration. You need to communicate clearly and consistently with other departments or stakeholders, using the appropriate channels and tools. For example, you can use email, phone, text, or online platforms to share information, updates, feedback, and requests. You can also use documents, such as scripts, schedules, reports, cue sheets, and checklists, to organize and track the progress of the production. You should also hold regular meetings, such as production meetings, technical rehearsals, and post-show debriefs, to discuss and resolve any issues, questions, or changes.

3 Establish and follow safety protocols and procedures

Safety is paramount in any theatrical production. You need to establish and follow safety protocols and procedures, and ensure that everyone is aware of them. For example, you should conduct a risk assessment of the venue and the production elements, such as props, costumes, sets, lighting, sound, and special effects. You should also identify and eliminate any potential hazards, such as fire, electrical, or mechanical risks. You should also provide and maintain the necessary safety equipment, such as fire extinguishers, first aid kits, and emergency exits. You should also train and instruct everyone on how to use the safety equipment, how to respond to emergencies, and how to report any incidents or injuries.

4 Be flexible and adaptable to changes

Theatrical productions are dynamic and unpredictable. You need to be flexible and adaptable to changes, and be prepared to deal with any challenges or problems that may arise. For example, you may have to adjust the schedule, the budget, the cast, the crew, the design, or the script due to unforeseen circumstances, such as illness, injury, weather, technical failure, or artistic decision. You should also have a contingency plan for any possible scenarios, such as alternative venues, backup equipment, understudies, or cut scenes. You should also communicate any changes to everyone involved as soon as possible, and update the relevant documents accordingly.

5 Seek and give constructive feedback

Feedback is essential to improving the quality and efficiency of the production. You need to seek and give constructive feedback to other departments or stakeholders, and be open to receiving and implementing feedback. For example, you can ask for feedback from the director, the designer, the actor, the technician, or the venue staff on how to improve your stage management skills, such as your communication, organization, coordination, or leadership. You can also give feedback to them on how to improve their work, such as their design, performance, technical operation, or venue management. You should also use feedback as an opportunity to learn, grow, and collaborate, rather than as a criticism, conflict, or competition.

6 Celebrate and enjoy the production

Theatrical productions are not only challenging and stressful, but also rewarding and enjoyable. You need to celebrate and enjoy the production with other departments or stakeholders, and share the joy and satisfaction of creating and presenting a live show. For example, you can express your gratitude and appreciation to everyone involved in the production, such as by sending thank-you notes, cards, or gifts. You can also celebrate and socialize with them after the show, such as by hosting a party, going out for a meal or a drink, or attending a festival or an awards ceremony. You can also enjoy and appreciate the show itself, such as by watching it from the audience perspective, or by receiving applause or compliments from the audience or the critics.