Messages

1

Employment / Re: Honest Opinion: Can I Make This Happen?

« on: Jul 18, 2011, 12:02 am »

Thanks for the replies and discussion, guys.  I think when I say stage managing makes me "happy" I'm not quite articulating what I mean...I think fulfilled is more appropriate, and that's a fulfillment that comes from doing a job well and being able to take pride in the results...and for me, these do translate into a happiness that I don't think I could or would want to give up. 

On the other hand, I know that everyone has to eat, and that stage management is a career.  I don't have any delusions that it's a dream job, I just know that, for me, I'd rather work longer days doing something that fulfills me (that I'm good at) than shorter days doing something else (that I'm good at) that doesn't.

2

Employment / Re: Honest Opinion: Can I Make This Happen?

« on: Jul 10, 2011, 10:37 pm »

Haha no, to be honest, there are all sorts of things I could do to make money to support SMing and directing, but as far as what could make me happy as a real career, I think SMing and directing are the two real candidates.  By which I mean, when I'm not SMing or directing for an extended period, I'm just not as happy as I am when I'm working on or gearing up for a show.  I think I'd be happier working harder/longer hours with less security if it meant getting to work on shows than I would be if the bulk of my time were spent doing other things.

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Employment / Re: Honest Opinion: Can I Make This Happen?

« on: Jul 10, 2011, 09:24 pm »

Thanks for the responses, everyone. 

Matthew, re: being able to do something else...pretty much the only other thing is directing, and that's not exactly known for it's job security and awesome perks either. 

4

Employment / Honest Opinion: Can I Make This Happen?

« on: Jul 10, 2011, 11:10 am »

Hi everyone!  I've been reading these boards for a while, but just joined today!  I'm currently a student, but since my question is most directly related to employment, I thought I should post it here.

Basically, I'm wondering if you think I've got a shot at a career, given my background, and if not, what do I have to change?  So, here goes:

I came to SM later than some, starting this past year as a freshman in college.  However, I quickly made a name for myself, and stage managed two very challenging productions, both with long rehearsal periods and large companies, and one smaller, site-specific piece.  I got many offers for the next academic year, and am currently planning to SM two plays, a very technically-complicated concert, and a large-scale dance performance.  In addition to SMing, I do some production management work and direct, and also take on some tech jobs like board-operating.  Over summers, I have interned (and continue to do so) in professional theatres in NYC in producing/administration/ASM-type roles.

BUT, my school is a liberal arts college, and I'm going to get a theatre degree, not a stage management one.  Will this prevent me from being able to have a career in SM? 

I really do want your honest opinions, everyone!  And if this is the wrong board for this, then feel free to move it to the appropriate spot.