Are you a student looking to be backstage of our theatre productions, helping our Stage Manager ensure the success of a smooth running show when it comes to set changes, props, and all things back of house? If the answer is yes then you’re looking at a great opportunity in becoming an Assistant Stage Manager!
By definition, a stage manager is: An Assistant Stage Manager (ASM) is a key backstage position that supports the Stage Manager throughout a production, both during rehearsals and performances. They act as the Stage Manager’s eyes and ears, relaying information, managing backstage operations, and assisting with various tasks to ensure the smooth running of the production.
What is Top Hat looking for when selecting an Asst Stage Manager?
1. We recommend Students ages 13+ to sign up.
2. Tech savvy is a bonus, but not a necessity.
3. A note taker! Being able to record all things during rehearsal on either a laptop, notebook, or script.
4. Able to handle high stress environments. Specifically during theatre tech week.
5. You are able to understand and take direction by multiple people including your Stage Manager.
6. Communicate! A student who is willing to speak up, work with other students, and not afraid to be heard!
7. Prepare, someone who takes the time at home to prepare and know what to expect for the next rehearsal and how to help your Stage Manager, Directors, and cast! This does include reading the script, listening to the music, and understanding the beats of the show!
8. If you believe in taking the initiative! Don’t wait for others to make magic happen backstage!
What Students develop from being an Assistant Stage Manager:
- Leadership and Confidence – Growing your voice and being comfortable with speaking to a group of people, most often in this case a group of people your own age and at times adults during production meetings and tech week.
- Critical Thinking and Problem Solving – For Stage Managers and Assistant Stage Managers the heavy work comes in during tech week, and theatre is not a perfect world when it comes to plans. You will learn to assess situations and problems of a complex variety and resolve them with urgency in partner with the Stage Manager.
- Communication Skills – Having the ability to know in what way is best to communicate whether it’s in person, email, or by phone.
- Self Advocacy – We would not be where we are as Top Hat if we did not actively speak up for ourselves and vocalize the needs of the show in order for it to be a successful one.
- Stress Management – Being in a position where there are many moving parts is certainly challenging, but by undergoing the role of Asst Stage Management you will grow to understand how to prioritize needs of the show and that stress is only a temporary feeling that can be conquered!
Some questions we get most often:
Do I show up for every rehearsal?
Yes! It is super important you have great attendance and are present with the Stage Manager and Creative Team during rehearsals. You will also be responsible for attending production meetings alongside your Stage Manager.
Can I miss days of Tech Week?
No, tech week is mandatory for all roles.
Will I be in the show as a cast member and Asst Stage Manager?
No, the role of Asst Stage Manager is a heavy role to play alongside the Stage Manager. You will only be assigned this role during a show.
Is there a cost for becoming a Asst Stage Manager?
A one time $300.00 fee is charged for the cost PER show
Will I be given a laptop or any tech to use?
No, all tech devices you use are to be of your own property with parents permission.
What I will do as Assistant Stage Manager?
- Report to Stage Manager, Directors, and Production Staff to ensure tasks are met timely.
- Take attendance at every rehearsal and tech days and performances.
- Record blocking, have written directions explained by the Director to the cast on how to move on stage and where to enter and exit from the stage.
- Be on book during rehearsals. Meaning you will give script lines to cast members as they need it when running the show at rehearsals.
- You will attend Production Meetings with Top Hat Staff Creative, Set Design, Costuming, and all production related matter and take notes.
- Assist the Stage Manager during Tech Week to ensure Sets and Props are secure.
- Assist the Stage Manager before Tech Week to create a set change list.
- Assist the Stage Manager during Tech Week to ensure all Set up of sets, prop resets, and general clean up of performance space is done daily.
Ok, I’m an Assistant Stage Manager, will I get to be a Stage Manager eventually?
With the great responsibility a Stage Manager must undertake it is super important we have a person who is prepared for all things stage managing. Though we are excited to hear of students wanting to become Stage Managers there needs to be a foundation of growth before assuming the title of a heavier role.
To be considered for a Stage Manager role you must be and have done the following with Top Hat Theatrics:
1. Ages 16+ only.
2. Completed 1 year (Season) of Assistant Stage Managing. This would include the Fall Show, Spring Show, and Summer Camp.
3. Completed 1 year (Season) of Tech Crew. This would mean learning how to operate Sound Board, Spot Light, and Mics.
4. If you have not completed the above role and possess the experience from your Highschool Theatre, we will ask to speak with your Drama Teacher for a recommendation and history of shows you’ve been in similar roles as Assistant Stage Manager and Tech Crew.
On the form below, please select “Asst Stage Manager” as the role.