Nnstage manager prompt book template

The prompt book is the master copy of the script or score, containing all the actor moves and technical cues, and is used by the deputy stage manager to run rehearsals and later, control the performance. I very rarely used this template myself, mostly it was the domain of the company manager, whose weekly schedule outlines the travel and other things that take the cast from point a to point b, and then when we started touring our td used the same format for the crews schedule. A clearinghouse for information, the stage manager is responsible for. Below are some paperwork templates that i have created, all are designed to be customizable. Check out why its good to keep these for future jobs and why its such an important tool for a show. Stage management, by lawrence stern the stage management handbook, by daniel ionazi. The official production book prepare the production book so that it is an accurate record of the production. How to make a prompt book stage manager, theatre stage. Stage managers sm make notes of all changes in the prompt book script, so check your list with theirs. This is a page that we can post templates for different paperwork that stage managers generate. Youre ahead of the game with your use of technology. Stage props list, example of props list free download. As all stage managers know, doing line notes for actors once they are offbook is one of the most gueling parts of the job. The ptg stage manager s handbook adapted from the stage manager s handbook.

Regular dialogue related to expectations and sharing of responsibilities need to be ongoing from day one in order to build a teamwork environment. The collection also has cast list templates, cue sheets, rehearsal reports, cast lists and much, much more. Blocking is keeping track of the actors movements across the stage. These two positions involve support for both the director and the producers. Also, we identify tips and tricks to perfecting your stagemanagement skills.

There is a lot to be said for the old way of making a prompt book. The stage managers toolkit provides a comprehensive account of the role of the stage manager for live theatre with a focus on both written and verbal communication best practices. Not just to remind you, but in case something happens, someone else will be able to read and understand your blocking notations. This paperwork is available to modify and use for production work at the university of iowa. A prompt book isnt just a random extra copy of the script though. Stage management is a broad field that is generally defined as the practice of organization and coordination of an event or theatrical production. A job description from thomas kellys book on stage management from his class at rutgers mason school of the arts.

Its been requested, so i go through what i have in one of my prompt books for a show. I built cast98 to automate cast logistics for small theatres, school drama groups, and other performance. During performances, the stage manager runs the book, which means he uses the prompt book to cue lights, sound and set changes. Compare three samples of the following types of forms used by stage managers. Eldred theatre, case western reserve university, fourth edition compiled by matthew eckstein for more information, please see the following books. I guess if everybody else liked using it so much, its not too bad. Samples should show how the same information can be organized in three distinct ways. Personal props are items actors carry inside their costumes or wear, like pocket watches, keychains, pens, glasses, etc. Accept responsibility keep their cool keep their eyes and ears open and know when to share their opinions. Stage manager shall be an employee of the producer and not an independent contractor. This cheat sheet is for all of the heiroglyphics a stage manager may have written during blocking setting the actors movements, so that someone else can interpret your book.

Prompt book information link to details about the prompt book. The book outlines the duties of the stage manager and assistant stage manager throughout a production, discussing not only what to do but why. Ppt stage management powerpoint presentation free to. Choose styles that clearly indicate specific advantages or disadvantages of each document. The sm should be one of the most informed and knowledgeable people in the production staff. Explain audition procedures to actors and help to distribute audition information and help with the sign in process. When i was very young i thought i wanted to work in film or tv.

The stage manager s toolkit by laurie kincman one of the most important roles in any theatrical production is that of the stage manager. Unfortunatly, there is no accepted format for the distribution of scripts electronically, which basically means that there is no dedicated stage management tool. The key stage management positions are stage manager sm and assistant stage manager asm. Winner of the standing ovation award for best powerpoint templates from presentations magazine.

Stage managers and directors can use this printable. Theyll give your presentations a professional, memorable appearance the kind of sophisticated look that todays audiences expect. Student directors need to document their process, including showing clearly the reasons for the directorial choices they have made. For a refresher on the characteristics of a good stage manager, take a look at the book stage management by lawrence stern. They are the lines of communication between actors, director, designers, technical staff, and front of house exc. Its sometimes known as the book, prompt copy or prompt script. Whats in a stage managers prompt book aka sms bible.

The theatre template collection has your rehearsal calendar all laid out and ready to go. Angie renaldo, elanie walwrath, kim crawley, kate parker, ginnie sutfin, persephone slichter, ester emory, and ellen bredehoft. Along with the materials outlined below, it would also include. View stage manager prompt book ppts online, safely and virusfree. Assistant stage manager asm usually shortened to asm, the assistant stage manager is the most junior member of the stage management team, and is often in charge of sourcing and running properties during the run of a show. Stage management may encompass a variety of activities including the overseeing of the rehearsal process and coordinating communications among various production teams and personnel. In modern theatrical productions, the prompt book is generally maintained and kept by the stage manager, with differences in the specific construction and organization to suit the style of the stage manager keeping the book, and the type of production legitimate theatre. When i first started as an assistant stage manager, i started using a template i was given, and from there i developed some of my own for furture stage managers to make things easier.

Check out why its good to keep these for future jobs and why its such an important tool for a. Usually you can get a copy from the director or from the stage management advisor. A copy of the script all blocking written into the script any research materials reactions to each rehearsal, including what the director has. Worlds best powerpoint templates crystalgraphics offers more powerpoint templates than anyone else in the world, with over 4 million to choose from. Follow these steps and your stage manager will be ready to go in no time.

In regards to paperwork, most stage managers borrow other peoples templates to start, and then customize as preferences develop. The prompt book must be prepared in advance of the first rehearsal, so the stage manager is ready to go right away. In my local theatre groups, the directors are trying to use facebook this is 5 years later, of course but theres a couple people that are not on facebook anymore, so getting info manually like this is still tedious. His eight points explain perfectly what makes a good stage manager the best. Stage management software top 10 list controlbooth. In this episode, we explore one of the many ways to build a stage management book. On a side note i recently put together a new prompt script for a show that started rehearsals this week and it was fun to have this post on my mind as i was putting things together. The stage manager also works with the technical designer in creating sets that match the directors needs and then finding the most efficient way for crew to change the sets quickly during the performance. To start managing your shows using virtual stage management, click the purchase button below. The primary prompt book should have any and all information about a production in it incase the director, producer, anyone needs information. If you have been asked to join this website by your organization, enter the sign up code below. They are kept with their costumes in the dressing room and are the actors responsibility as well. Now, this may look a bit intimidating, but i will show you how i write down blocking. You will have to scour the internets for samples and templates and examples until you find or amalgamate.