The Role of a Technical Stage Manager

A Technical Stage Manager (TSM) combines the roles of Stage Manager and Technician, usually within smaller theatre companies.
According to the Prospects website(1), a Stage Manager (SM) "needs to have a good understanding of both the technical and artistic elements of a performance" and carries out the wishes of the director throughout the production period and the performance weeks. This means that the SM has a lot of responsibility during the working process as they ensure all aspects of production are in order.
A Theatre Technician looks after the technical side of production - this covers sound, lighting, AV, and any other special effects required through the performance. Therefore, a Technical Stage Manager takes on a lot of responsibility, but as it is usually within a smaller company this can lead to a good balance of experience and work.

This semester, I will be taking the role of TSM for 3rd year Design Projects. I am looking forward to gaining further experience within the technical side of theatre, as well as getting a chance to manage a little more. As I haven't been a Stage Manager before, I feel that the opportunity to do this within a smaller company will be a good introduction to this job role, and will enable me to get used to the responsibility without being overwhelmed by a large scale production.




(1) Prospects (2011) Theatre Stage Manager: Job Description, Available at: http://www.prospects.ac.uk/theatre_stage_manager_job_description.htm (Accessed 16 February 2012)