A stage for everyone

I imagine every stage manager is asked at least once “When you see a play or a musical, do you think about the cues being called?”? I do, but then just as quickly I forget about it.? If it’s a compelling production and you try to pay attention to what’s happening technically (which is ridiculous to even try) very soon you’re not going to be understanding the action on stage. The best stage managed shows are shows you think there isn’t even someone responsible for something to happen because what’s happening on stage seems so organic and seamless.

In calling corporate events, even though many conventions and protocols are the same as theater, the difference is substantially different.? For starters the guy on stage is ultimately the guy paying you.? This alone changes the dynamic and is probably the basis of many conversations at the bar after rehearsals!? In theater, if you have an issue there is a company manager you can discuss things with.? In theater you give notes to the actors so everything stays the same from opening night until the production closes.? In corporate, there is only one opening night, and it’s usually first thing in the morning.? Exceptions are rare.? In theater you might be rehearsing the actors for six weeks in a church basement before you even get into the performance space. In corporate, you could have the entire C Suite change in six weeks!? Trust me, at that far out the last thing any one of them is thinking about is their talk to the troops at the national sales meeting.?

'La Cage aux folles' was a real treat. It was a very tightly called show with lots of laughs, a fantastic score and stellar performances! ?

Have a safe holiday and a prosperous new year!

Miles