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Stage Management: Plays & Musicals / Backstage or Booth?

« on: Jun 23, 2005, 11:44 am »

I am a professional SM and if I may weigh in? I feel usually there isn't the option of a choice about where you call the show from...the venue itself and it's configuration will decide that. Having said that I will say that on one occasion, I did prevail upon the TD to help me move the SM console from an awkward off left position to a funny little Punch and Judy booth at the back of the house which while less than desirable was still a better place for me to view the show. My feeling is that in a short run being onstage is fine but in a longer run (anything over a week) it is best for the SM to occupy a position in the rear of the house-both to better manage the entire stage, and to view the house as well. Ideally you would have an assitant backstage-or a responsible, least used cast member willing to pitch in (there is usually someone in every cast!)
Stage Monkey