Messages

1

Introductions / Finally!

« on: Sep 19, 2014, 04:33 pm »

Hey all,

Just adding an intro so I won't be a stranger. I'm almost entirely new to theater and stage management. I work for an all-volunteer DIY theater group in Baltimore that produces original, live rock opera shows. I stepped in as stage manager for our last production (March 2014) after the original stage manager had to step down when complications with her paying job arose. With a cast of 24, a six-member live band, and two touring weekends, it was definitely a trial-by-fire, but I wouldn't trade it for anything.

I am now stage managing my third production and still looking for ways to improve. I'm glad I stumbled upon this website; I'm sure I'll find lots of useful information here.

Thanks!
Debra

2

Stage Management: Plays & Musicals / Re: Prop tracking for a large show

« on: Sep 19, 2014, 04:14 pm »

I think Hollywood was asking about the paperwork, not the actual props.

Everyone has their theories of how to track, but one major piece of paperwork I create is a Running Info sheet that lists every single entrance and exit of an actor.  With it, I have columns of the timing from the start of the show (only have to keep one stopwatch running), the script page, the place (UR Door, etc), and if the actor is carrying a prop.  I also include a note upon exit if the actor needs to make a quickchange.  In this, I also list all major set changes, prop moves by crew, etc  Gets to be quite an extensive piece of paperwork to upkeep, but eventually you can glean LOTS of info from one piece, especially lots of timings for things you never knew you wanted.  Anyway, but from that you can glean specific entrances and exits of props.

I can email examples to those who ask.

As for the preset, I prefer the kind that requires a checkmark for every single piece during preset, so you don't miss something you swore you set already...

Erin

Erin,
I know this is a long shot--it has been so long since you posted this--but I am new to stage management and have been unable to find a sample document like the one you described, with EVERYTHING in one place. If you could email me an example I would be very grateful. I cannot figure out how to email you via your profile, but my email address should be listed in mine.
Thank you,
Debra