One of the theaters I work at has a “policy” that the SM and board-ops need to be IN the booth at ˝ hour. I have never adhered to this policy…party because I did not know it existed until my third show with this theater, when one of their former Resident stage managers mentioned it to me. I feel strongly that it’s important for the SM to have as much face time with actors as possible during the run. Being a consistent, positive presence backstage helps me monitor morale, anticipate and address problems that are brewing, and generally project that I am there to lead and support this team. When I “ascend”
to the booth has to do with how long it takes me to run up there and get settled in.
My question: is it kosher for a producer to dictate where the SM is at half-hour? What are your thoughts about where the SM should be pre-show?
In my situation, it’s an equity house, SPT contract, and my shows have had small casts. There is a good god-mic/backstage monitor set up, and wireless headsets for backstage crew and ASM (generally non-equity). I have a walkie-talkie to communicate with front of house, regardless of where I am. In the past, this theater has had one Resident Stage Manager who is considered a full-time staff member (does that affect the producers’ ability to make “policy”?), and hired other SMs for particular shows if runs/rehearsals overlap too much. This year is a little different; I’m one of several SMs, each with her own shows. All of us have worked there before, but none of us are in residence now.