2019 Theses Master's

The World’s A Stage: A Guide to International Stage Management

Maxwell, R. Christopher

In the art of Stage Management, the care and feeding of any show large or small requires the ability to adapt to the many challenges that inevitably arise in any production. As the primary interface for all creative information, the stage manager must develop comprehensive systems to process and disseminate this data in a timely and efficient manner. Part of this duty is building a toolbox which enables us to call upon a variety of skills in tandem at a moment’s notice. Being prepared for every situation is impossible, but when armed with the best practices and the most information available we shield ourselves from a great deal of potential complications. Over the last fifty years technology has transformed our world into an immensely interconnected, interrelated interdependent place. Because of this trend our role as managers of screen and stage now must shift with these new winds of progress both backstage and front of house. This analysis of international touring procedures will reveal that among the major challenges facing production stage managers today adjusting to three issues prevail: the division of labor, socio-cultural norms, and theatre architecture. The goal of this exploration is to create a resource for those who wish to become not only better international stage mangers but also well-informed global citizens. To understand the styles and culture of others we must first reflect the standards, style, and culture of American stage managers. This study will rely on the collective bargaining labor agreements created by the Associated Actors and Artists of America as the basis of our organizational structure and as the control upon which other management styles are compared. When comparing the structure of theatrical management and the division of labor around the world we have a better grasp on the greater function of stage managers. By looking at the major theatrical landmarks we can see what role touring productions plays in the local community as well as on the international stage. In looking at the language and customs to each region we can heighten our awareness of popular vernacular and unfamiliar cultural standards.