This first phase of the process is devoted to information gathering. The stage manager focuses on gathering details on both the script and this specific production, and sharing that information in a first set of documents and conversations.

Assembling your prompt script can feel like a tedious process, but the time you invest to attain the proper page size and margins and pair it with a useful backing sheet will pay off in every future phase of the production. Remember that use of the script will be easier with the backing sheet set up for your dominant hand, so you will not have to reach across the rings to take blocking. Below are the layout samples presented in the text.

Arguably the most important phase in the process, the SM is tasked with both information collection and distribution while your production comes to life in the shops and rehearsal hall.

In the text, you read about the many complexities that can accompany working with the groundplan. Below are full samples of two of the shows discussed: Twelfth Night and The Tempest. Click on the image to open up the PDF files.

Once the stage management team reaches tech rehearsals, you focus both on translating your knowledge to the crew and to envisioning the big picture as the design elements are added to the show.

When at last you reach opening night, be sure to reflect on all of the hard work you have put in thus far, and enjoy the ride! Every performance will be just a bit different from the last one, but that is part of what makes live theatre special.