Stage Managing the Dance Concert of 2023 proved to be an engaging and challenging experience, marking my inaugural foray into fully managing a production. My objectives involved responding to and efficiently solving issues, establishing professional relationships with the creative team, providing effective assistance to crew members, and mastering the art of calling a show. I believe I successfully achieved these goals by dedicating myself to ensuring that the production had all the necessary resources for success on the Newhart Stage.

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Numerous challenges surfaced during the production, ranging from COVID cases and attendance issues to reporting flaws. I addressed these situations with patience and grace, recognizing that people will handle situations in their own way. To rectify report flaws, I sent edits via email to the Rehearsal Assistants. The run crew, under my guidance, tackled attendance issues, ensuring that no first-string cast or crew members were absent until the final show. All challenges were resolved promptly and efficiently, with everyone demonstrating understanding and appreciation for the feedback provided.

 

This production provided an opportunity to collaborate professionally with all the choreographers. As the Stage Manager, my role was to translate their visions to designers, fostering alignment among all stakeholders. Although this led to some late nights teching pieces and scrutinizing lights in great detail, I maintained our schedule, ensuring no one worked until midnight. Weekly one-on-one meetings with Artistic Director Sandra Kaufmann facilitated a strong rapport, enabling us to swiftly address problems on both ends. The mutual trust in our professional relationship was evident, boosting my confidence in executing tasks efficiently.

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A highlight of managing the show was witnessing the camaraderie among the run crew. Emma Smith, the Assistant Stage Manager (ASM), played a crucial role in solving backstage issues promptly, ensuring smooth operations even in the absence of crew members. The success of the show hinged on the crew's exemplary performance, and I learned when to provide constructive feedback based on their consistently adept handling of cues and pre- and post-show duties. Working with this crew was a thoroughly enjoyable experience.

The most challenging aspect for me was learning how to call a show. Despite being a new responsibility, guidance from Miranda and Clare, along with support from the lighting designers in articulating cue calls, made the process of creating my calling script painless. Once familiar with the show's dynamics after tech rehearsals, calling the show became second nature, and I encountered no difficulties. I am pleased with the skill set I developed in this area.

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In conclusion, Stage Managing for Dance Concert 2023 was a transformative experience that will shape my approach to professional roles in the months to come. The collaboration and professionalism of my team contributed to the seamless execution of a truly outstanding show. I aspire to replicate this positive experience by working with a similar team in my future stage management endeavors.