Real-Life Communication
Anything can happen on the stage. Stage managers have to be prepared
to find a quick solution. They need to have good listening skills to understand
the problem and good communication skills in order to direct people to a rapid
solution.
"You have to be a competent communicator to do this job,"
says Omar Kamal, a stage manager. "You must maintain cohesiveness between
all production members and always create a positive environment."
Stage
managers also need to communicate with actors, directors and producers in
order to understand their requests. "Communication skills are crucial," agrees
Carissa Dollar, a stage manager.
"The two most important words of advice
for a stage manager about to begin rehearsal for any production are: be prepared.
The best way to gain the trust of any company is to be able to quickly and
efficiently deal with any situation which arises," she adds. "Actors who trust
their stage manager will also listen to their stage manager."
How do
stage managers prepare for the unexpected? Many carry a kit full of useful
supplies. Listed below are the contents of a stage manager's kit. Read over
the list, and then read the actor's requests written below. Do you have anything
to help them?
| Medical Supplies | ?? |
| First aid book | Allergy medication | Burn cream |
| Iodine | Latex gloves | Sugar packets (for a diabetic emergency) |
| Gauze | Cloth tape | Antiseptic towelettes |
| Ammonia inhalants | Isopropyl alcohol | Hydrogen peroxide |
| Medical scissors | Tweezers | Cotton |
| Sinus medication | Bandages | Cough drops |
| Pain relievers | Throat spray | Eye drops |
| Antihistamines | ?? |
| ?? |
| Wardrobe Supplies | ?? |
| Safety pins | Hair bands | Bobby pins |
| Scissors | Seam ripper | Shoelaces |
| Shout wipes | Thimble | Beeswax |
| Needles and thread | ?? |
| ?? |
| Courtesy and Entertainment Items | ?? |
| Electrical tape | Lighters | Matches |
| Nail files | Nail clippers | Tissues |
| Breath mints | Playing cards | Travel size games |
| Shaving cream | Razor | Toothbrush |
| Toothpaste | Mouthwash | Eyeglass cleaner |
| Eyeglass repair kit | Hand cream | Contact case |
| Saline solution | Coffee singles | Tea bags |
| Candy | Clear nail polish |
(Reprinted from the Stage Manager's Handbook with permission
from
Carissa Dollar.)
Questions:
- An actor comes to you. He has forgotten to remove his contacts before
the performance. What can you give him to help out?
- An actor complains of a sore throat. Is there anything you can give him
before the show starts?
- An actress's black leather boot has ripped along the toe. Is there anything
in your kit that will help?