16.4 Continuing Education and Skill Development in the Field

Stage management is a dynamic field that requires continuous learning and growth. Staying current with industry trends, honing skills, and expanding knowledge are crucial for success in this ever-evolving profession.

Continuing education, workshops, and mentorship programs offer valuable opportunities for stage managers to enhance their expertise. By actively participating in these activities, professionals can stay ahead of the curve and excel in their careers.

Continuing Education and Professional Development

Continuing education for stage managers

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• Workshops and seminars
  • Attend workshops focused on specific aspects of stage management (blocking notation, calling cues)
  • Participate in seminars led by industry professionals to gain insights and learn from their experiences
• Online courses and webinars
  • Enroll in online courses to enhance skills and knowledge in areas such as leadership, communication, and technical theater
  • Join webinars hosted by professional organizations (Stage Managers' Association) or educational institutions to stay current with industry trends
• Graduate programs
  • Consider pursuing a master's degree in stage management or related fields (MFA in Stage Management, MA in Theater Management) to deepen understanding and expertise
  • Research graduate programs that offer specialized training and networking opportunities to advance career prospects

Skill-enhancing workshops and conferences

• Industry conferences
  • Attend the United States Institute for Theatre Technology (USITT) Annual Conference & Stage Expo to learn about the latest technologies and best practices
  • Participate in the Broadway Stage Management Symposium to network with top industry professionals and gain valuable insights
  • Engage in workshops and sessions at the Stage Managers' Association (SMA) Annual Conference to enhance skills and knowledge
• Workshops and training programs
  • Attend Stage Management Association (SMA) workshops to learn from experienced stage managers and hone specific skills (managing rehearsals, working with directors)
  • Enroll in the Broadway Stage Management Intensive to receive hands-on training and mentorship from Broadway professionals
  • Participate in Educational Theatre Association (EdTA) workshops to learn best practices for managing educational theater productions

Industry trends and best practices

• Industry publications
  • Subscribe to publications such as Stage Directions, American Theatre, and Theatre Design & Technology to stay informed about the latest trends and innovations
  • Read articles and interviews featuring stage managers and their experiences to gain insights into real-world challenges and solutions
• Social media and online communities
  • Follow industry professionals, organizations (Broadway Stage Managers, SMA), and hashtags (#stagemanagement, #smchat) on social media platforms to stay connected and informed
  • Engage in discussions and seek advice from online stage management communities to learn from peers and share experiences
• Networking events
  • Attend industry events, such as opening nights, galas, and fundraisers to build relationships with professionals and expand network
  • Connect with fellow stage managers and professionals to exchange ideas and insights, and explore potential collaborations

Mentorship in stage management

• Formal mentorship programs
  • Apply for mentorship programs offered by professional organizations like SMA or USITT to receive guidance from experienced stage managers
  • Engage in one-on-one mentoring sessions with assigned mentors to discuss career goals, challenges, and strategies for success
• Informal mentorship
  • Reach out to experienced stage managers in your network for guidance and advice on navigating the industry and overcoming obstacles
  • Seek opportunities to shadow or assist established stage managers on projects to learn from their processes and techniques
• Reverse mentorship
  • Offer your expertise to mentor aspiring stage managers or students, sharing your knowledge and experiences
  • Help foster the next generation of stage managers by providing guidance, support, and opportunities for growth