Stage manager
Make sure live stage performances run smoothly by managing the crew, performers and technical needs of the show.
Also known as: production manager
About the job
What it's like
You would make sure live stage performances run smoothly. You would organise the practical and technical aspects of rehearsals and shows, and make sure that all crew and performers are in the right place at the right time.
You would probably be helped by a deputy stage manager and one or two assistant stage managers. On smaller productions you might work alone.
You and your team would:
Run rehearsals
Work with others to plan wardrobe, set design, scene changes, sound and lighting
Manage the props budget and organise props and set dressing
Learn the performers’ positions on stage, script changes, and the props, lighting and sound needed for each scene
Work with theatre managers and front-of-house staff
Supervise setting up and taking down before and after each show
Let the performers know when to go on stage
Let the technical crew know when to make sound and lighting changes
You might also join in with putting up the set and any other practical tasks, particularly in small companies or at the start of your career.
Understanding health and safety rules would be very important.
Hours
Hours can be long and unsocial. Meetings and rehearsals usually take place during the day, but during performances you would work mainly in the evenings. You would often be the last to leave the venue late at night.
Environment
You might be permanently based at one venue, or you might travel to different venues when on tour.
Travel
You would need a driving license in order to transport props. Travel away from home might be involved if your production were to go on tour.
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Related industries
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Creative
Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Top specialised skills
These are the top specialised skills that have been found in job vacancies across Scotland. From March 2024 to March 2025.
- stage management
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- cooperating
- verbal communication
- attention to detail
- developing a plan
- time management
- making decisions
- taking responsibility
- delegating
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
Art and Design
Drama
Media
Music
Music Technology
Skills for Work: Creative Industries
Entry is very competitive.
There are no set qualifications required to enter this role but many stage managers train as actors first. Increasingly entrants have a degree or Higher National Diploma (HND) in a relevant subject, such as:
technical and production arts
technical theatre
drama
theatre studies
music
You can enter some Technical Theatre or Performing Arts National Certificate or National Qualification courses (SCQF 2-6) with no formal qualifications but most courses ask for National 4/5 qualifications (SCQF level 4/5).
You can enter Higher National Certificate (SCQF level 7) or Higher National Diploma courses (SCQF level 8) with National 4/5 qualifications and one to two Highers or equivalent qualifications.
To enter a degree (SCQF level 9/10) usually requires National 5 qualifications and a minimum of three Highers or a relevant HNC/HND.
You should check that Drama UK accredits or recognises the degree course you are considering.
Qualifications and experience that demonstrate understanding of the industry, creative and organisational skills such as Skills for Work Creative Industries (SCQF level 5).
You normally need experience in amateur or student productions.
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