Messages

46

Tools of the Trade / Re: Management Books

« on: Apr 28, 2008, 05:35 pm »

One book that my stage management teacher used that is not a theater book, but a management book is called: They Shoot Managers, Don't They?

I found it quite helpful in just learning how to manage in general.

47

SMNetwork Archives / Re: Does anyone know the SM of the Scottish play on B'way?

« on: Apr 16, 2008, 03:59 pm »

I've written to SMs c/o the theater and they have responded - not the quickest way, but certainly one avenue for you to explore.

48

The Green Room / Re: SMs in media?

« on: Apr 10, 2008, 12:16 pm »

I've been watching Slings & Arrows myself (I've become slightly addicted) and enjoyed the episode in Season 2 where Emily, the SM intern calls the break and Maria, the SM just looks at her in disbelief.

49

The Hardline / Re: Distribution Actor Notes

« on: Apr 01, 2008, 08:12 am »

The majority of actors that I've worked with prefer it when the director emails the notes so they have time to digest before half hour...though I'm always sure to have a hard copy of those notes at their station when they get to the theater so if they don't want to read the notes on their own time at home they can have them when they are at work.

50

SMNetwork Archives / Re: Disease Prevention Techniques

« on: Mar 31, 2008, 01:42 pm »

I've  had luck with the various Zicam products for shortening colds, etc either taking them when I feel like I'm coming down with something or already into having a cold.

51

Stage Management: Plays & Musicals / Re: Cast Gifts/Thank Yous?

« on: Mar 01, 2008, 08:55 am »

I tend to do cards for opening and rarely do actual gifts.  If I don't have time, then sometimes I'll do closing-night cards instead.

Typically I bake throughout the rehearsal process and run but usually skip opening or opening weekend because quite often others take that opportunity to bring in goodies.  I like to think my baking throughout tends to be the gift to those I work with.

52

Students and Novice Stage Managers / Re: ALL-STATE AUDITIONS...i cant spell...

« on: Feb 27, 2008, 05:03 pm »

I was one of the props crew for Carousel.

53

Students and Novice Stage Managers / Re: ALL-STATE AUDITIONS...i cant spell...

« on: Feb 27, 2008, 11:01 am »

I also did Illinois All-State when I was in High School. I actually ASM my junior year and then had the great experience to SM my senior year for it.

Which All-State productions did you do? 

54

Students and Novice Stage Managers / Re: ALL-STATE AUDITIONS...i cant spell...

« on: Feb 26, 2008, 11:57 am »

Ditto with what the other two said.

That being said - good luck!!  I did props for Illinois All-State back when I was in high school and it was a fantastic experience.  If you have any specific questions feel free to PM me - though it was many years ago.  Let us know how it goes!!

55

College and Graduate Studies / Re: Grad School Interviews - Any Advice?

« on: Feb 21, 2008, 09:15 am »

First off, congratulations on the interview!  That in itself is a big step and very exciting.

While I haven't interviewed for graduate school, I have interviewed for many a professional job and for professional internships.  One of the things I have found most important in all of my interviews is to just be myself and not try to be who I think they want me to be.  That will only lead you to be more nervous and you may not know what they are looking for.  Being yourself is the best way to find a good fit for both you and the school interviewing you - being someone you are not may lead to a few unhappy years for all involved.

Also, I wouldn't worry terribly about the general ed courses bringing down your GPA.  Obviously it didn't affect your application that much if they are calling you for the interview.  Think of them as a good learning experience that makes you a more well rounded stage manager - even if the grades don't necessarily reflect it.

Most of all - have fun!  And good luck with the interview.

56

The Hardline / VITA assistance from AEA

« on: Jan 29, 2008, 08:55 pm »

I don't know if this is the right place for this, so mods please move if there is a more appropriate board.

My question is has anyone taken advantage of the VITA from AEA (particularly in the NYC office)?  I was thinking about signing up next week and was wondering what I needed to take with me, how early to get there and what to expect.  I've been doing my own taxes for years but feel like I need some professional guidance to maximize my savings on my taxes.

57

Tools of the Trade / Re: Spike corners

« on: Jan 09, 2008, 02:01 am »

A PSM I worked with about 2 years ago had them thus as her assistant I got to use them.  They were a fabulous timesaver in tech.  My only complaint is they are larger then ones I would hand tear out.  I'm actually thinking about ordering some for my current production.

58

Tools of the Trade / Re: Should I become a Mac-er?

« on: Jan 03, 2008, 12:57 am »

Another way to get a Mac for a bit less is if you buy a refurbished Apple thru the Apple store - the selection online varies from day to day.  Since they do all the refurbs themselves they tend to be top quality and carry the AppleCare warranty.   I saved hundreds of dollars by purchasing my iBook this way - I've had it for 2 years now and still no problems!

59

Students and Novice Stage Managers / Re: "Shadowing" Stage Managers?

« on: Dec 30, 2007, 11:20 am »

This sounds like a great idea....I am in Melbourne Australia and I went onto the websites of the major productions on here at the moment (Priscilla, Phantom etc) none of them have any contact details though. How did you guys get the email addresses of the SMs/PSMs to ask if you could shadow them?

Thanks!

If I don't know the stage manager I write them letters c/o the theater or show letting them know my interest in shadowing them.  If this is something they are able to do at the time then they typically have emailed me and we continue corresponding in that manner to set up a date, etc.

60

Employment / Re: Summer Internships

« on: Nov 04, 2007, 12:51 pm »

I've worked as a PA at Berkshire Theater Festival which has both PA positions (paid) and SM interns (unpaid).  Both provide housing.

Colorado Shakespeare Festival also has PA positions and SM internships that provide housing and is in a beautiful setting.  I've worked there for a few summers now.

PM me if you have questions about either of the programs.  Good luck with your search!