The Stage Directions Guide to Working Back Stage provides an overview of what goes on behind the scenes as well as specific guidance for each essential area of back-stage operation.
Drawing from the columns and archives of Stage Directions magazine and adding new material and introductions that put the information into perspective, the editors focus on five main areas of responsibility in musical theater.
The Most Widely Used Manual For Aspiring And Veteran Stage Managers - Now Revised and Expanded The next best thing to shadowing a Broadway stage manager, this detailed, behind-the-scenes book as been brought completely up to date. First published in 1991, it is widely used and has been lauded as the most comprehensive, educational book on stage management available. From preproduction planning and first rehersals to opening night and final strike, all the essentials of the profession are presented here in a friendly, engaging style. Blending how-to information with anecdotes from his own career, author Thomas A. Kelly explains the entire theatrical process, including: - Organizing all rehearsals and performances - Maintaining the working script, cue sheets, and daily records - Supervising the technical aspects of the show - Running shows outdoors and at other non-theatrical venues - Dealing with performers and crew members on all levels This new edition reflects all the latest developments and innovations in the industry and adds a totally new chapter on opera stage management, complete with an in-depth breakdown of the challenges this style of production presents. The text is supported by sample documents, diagrams, and charts that straddle time-honored approaches with what can be generated by today's computer software. All the latest stage machinery is discussed, along with tips on finding employment. This guide remians the first choice for anyone who works in any branch of the profession, whether amateur, educational, or professional.
Here is a practical, accessible introduction to one of the most complex jobs in theatre. Linda Apperson clearly and concisely leads the reader through the procedures and responsibilities of stage management, from auditions to closing night. What is “blocking”? How do you “call” a show? Who is the technical director, and why do you want him or her as your best friend? How can you tame (or endure) a prima donna? When is the best time to offer advice to the actors? Ms. Apperson answers these and countless other questions in a resource book that will become a constant companion for both the novice and the experienced theatre person. Especially useful is her attention to personal relationships among actors and crew. She insists that working to create an atmosphere of respect backstage will improve the show onstage, and she shows precisely how this is done, based upon her years of experience in managing the stage. Stage Managing and Theatre Etiquette includes samples of prompt scripts and other essential stage manager’s tools.
Play Readings: A Complete Guide for Theatre Practitioners demystifies the standards and protocols of a play reading, demonstrating how to create effective and evocative readings for those new to or inexperienced with the genre. It examines all of the essential considerations involved in readings, including the use of the venue, pre-reading preparations, playwright/director communication, editing/adapting stage directions, casting, using the limited rehearsal time effectively, simple "staging" suggestions, working with actors, handling complex stage directions, talkbacks, and limiting the use of props, costumes, and music. A variety of readings are covered, including readings of musicals, operas, and period plays, for comprehensive coverage of this increasingly prevalent production form.
Here is an indispensable, nuts-and-bolts guide to putting on a stunning, low-budget show in less than 40 days! The Perfect Stage Crew explains the pitfalls to avoid and provides solutions to the most common as well as most complex stage performance problems. Readers without Broadway-size budgets and resources will learn the low-cost, low-tech approaches to painting scenery, building sets, hanging lights, setting cues, and operating sound. They’ll also find crucial guidance for generating publicity, preparing tickets, technical rehearsals, and more.
This first volume in the new series is different from other audition books in that it addresses the needs of both actors who are auditioning and directors who are conducting the auditions. The STAGE DIRECTIONS Guide to Auditions covers such topics as steps to a successful audition, preparing for auditions, audition procedures, auditions and attitude, audition warning signs, tips for holding auditions, clues for callbacks, making monologues memorable, tips for sight readings, publicizing auditions, and much more!
How do you develop the craft and skills of stage management for today's theatre industry? And how can these same skills be applied in a variety of entertainment settings to help you develop a rewarding and successful career? Drawing on his diverse experience working with companies from across the performing arts spectrum in venues from the Hollywood Bowl to the Barbican Centre in London, Michael Vitale offers a practical resource on the art of stage management for new and established stage managers. Besides providing detailed coverage of the role within theatre, the book uniquely explores the field of stage management in numerous branches of the entertainment industry. From theatre, opera, and theme parks, to cruise ships, special events, and dance, stage managers are an integral part of keeping productions running, and this book offers guidance on each distinct area to equip you for a varied and successful career. Written with candour and filled with real-world examples, the book examines the nuts and bolts of the job at each stage of the production process: from preproduction, room rehearsal, technical rehearsal, through to running the show. Vitale considers the skills needed to work with a myriad of different people, explores the traits of a successful stage manager, and helps you to hone and evaluate your own practice. Whether you are exploring the field for the first time or are a veteran looking to diversify your resumé, Introduction to the Art of Stage Management will provide insight, practical information, and useful tips to help along the way. An accompanying Companion Website features a range of time-saving templates and forms, such as schedule templates and scene samples. https://www.bloomsbury.com/uk/introduction-to-the-art-of-stage-management-9781474257190/
From auditioning actors to running a rehearsal to calling the cues, all the tricks and techniques of performing one of theater's most essential roles are revealed in this eye-opening view of backstage life on Broadway.