4. Preset
a. You should have a clipboard with a Preset Checklist and a Run Sheet. Most everything, should be
done by the crew member and 2
nd
ASMs, while you oversee everything and be there to assist when
necessary.
b. Preset the props and set pieces for the top of the show. This includes props onstage, on the prop
tables backstage, and personal props that go to the actors (either set them backstage or give them
to the actor – whatever was previously decided).
c. Test props/sets/flies. Be sure to test set pieces that move, flies that go in and out, and props that
have to ‘work’ (ex: practicals, cameras, cigarettes, etc). This should all be done by crew members,
but you and the 2
nd
ASMs should oversee this. The 1
st
ASM should take care of firearms.
d. On Stage
1. Clean the stage. The entire stage, the wings, and backstage areas should be swept and
mopped. This should be done by crew members.
2. Check the spike marks onstage. Make sure they are secure and not coming off. If you
have glow tape anywhere, check that as well.
b. Backstage
1. Headset/Monitors check. One person should sit on the stage manager’s headset and
another person should go to each of the others and test them to make sure they’re
working. Then go around and check audio/visual monitors.
2. First Aid. Keep a filled first aid kit on each side of the stage (or wherever depending on
the show). If anything is used from the first aid kit, it should be refilled so that you are
always fully equipped for each show.
3. Tell the stage manager when you are done presetting (or at least when you are done
presetting onstage) so that they can let the house manager know when they can open the
house.
4. Calls, Warnings, Places
a. Once you have preset and the house is open, you will have a half-hour before the show begins.
You can use this time to go over your run sheet, check in with the ASMs and the crew, check in
with the cast, and get yourself ready.
b. The stage manager will give warnings at 30, 15, 10, and 5 minutes.
c. At no less than 10 minutes, tell all crew members to get into their places and be ready to start.
d. Once places are officially called, have your headset on, keep the cast and crew quiet, and get ready
to start the show.
Performance
1. Basic Procedure
After technical rehearsals everything should be in place for a running a smooth show. However, this may not always
happen. The stage manager, by creating a safe, collaborative environment a show can have a smooth and safe run.
Unfortunately, sometimes accidents will occur and it is the responsibility of the state manager and the ASMs to
communicate effectively to the cast, crew, and audience to alleviate emergency situations.
2. Stage Manager
a. Calling Script / Cue Sheet - Put final touches on your calling script to create a clean, legible script.
Anyone should be able to call a show from your calling script. Your script should include anything
that will need to be cued, this will include lights, sound, SPFX, entrances, etc.
b. Calling - To run a show you need to put together a calling script that has all of the LX, SD, SPFX,
Fly, etc. cues in one script. To call a show effectively, one must have a calm voice and speak
clearly and with certainty. By giving adequate time for warnings, standbys, and giving a clear
“Go” there should be no confusion regarding placement of cues and the should execute smoothly.
i. Warning: Typically given about 1 min prior to the cue (about 1 to 1 ½ pages). The
purpose is to allow the technician to get to their post and become focused for the cue.
Warnings are used after a specific department as gone a significant amount of time
without having to execute a cue.