Stage Manager

What Is a Stage Manager?

A stage manager is the boss of the stage area. Their job is to keep the concert running on time.

While a production manager plans the whole event, the stage manager handles the stage itself on the day of the show. They only focus on what is happening right now on the stage.

Live music can be very chaotic. Things break, people run late, and weather can delay an outdoor show. The stage manager is the person who keeps everyone calm when things go wrong.

If a guitar amp suddenly breaks, the stage manager figures out a quick solution so the show can keep going. If a singer trips and falls, the stage manager makes sure they get help.

The stage manager manages the chaos on stage and keeps things running smoothly.

Keeping the Schedule

The most important tool for a stage manager is their watch. Every concert has a strict schedule.

The stage manager tells each band when it is time to walk on stage. They make sure load ins and soundchecks run on time. They also warn the band when their time is almost up. They might hold up their hand to show there are five minutes left.

Keeping the show on time makes the venue happy and ensures the fans get to enjoy the whole concert as planned.

Working With the Crew

A stage manager cannot do everything alone. They work closely with a team of helpers called stagehands.

When one band finishes playing, the stage manager directs the stagehands to move the old equipment out of the way. Then, they guide the new band’s equipment into the right spots. This has to happen very fast between bands.

They also talk to the sound engineer and the lighting team. They let the technical crew know exactly when the next band is ready to start playing. Good communication is the key to a fast changeover.