Supervises and manages the running of the stage area during a theatrical performance.
Work Environment
This occupation is typically found in the following Career Sector(s):
Videos on the Web
- Stage Manager- from: Youtube Search
- Concerts Director- from: icould [UK] Video
- Deputy Stage Manager- from: YouTube Video
- Stage Management at The Lir- from: YouTube [Video]
- Stage Manager- from: YouTube Video
- Stage Technician- from: icould [UK] Video
Working Life
Stage Managers are the link between all the different parts of a theatre company. They bring all elements of performance together at the right time.
Stage managers usually start off as assistants and then take on more responsibility. Assistant Stage Managers (ASM) obtain and prepare props, arrange costume fittings, deal with scene changes and remind actors about rehearsal times.
An ASM can progress to the more responsible position of deputy stage manager (DSM). The DSM notes all script changes and records all the actions of actors. This information is used to co-ordinate sound effects and scene and lighting changes. The DSM calls actors/actresses for rehearsals and costume fittings. During the performance the DSM prompts actors/actresses and cues lighting, sound and technical stage effects.
Both the ASM and DSM are answerable to the Stage Manager (SM), who is ultimately responsible for the smooth co-ordination of the performance. In large theatres, this may involve working in a control box and using an intercom to communicate with lighting and sound technicians.
Further Information
- Stage Manager- from: N.C.S. [UK]
- Stage Manager- from: Get Into Theatre
- Stage manager, theatre- from: GradIreland
Qualities - Stage Manager
You should have practical skills and artistic flair. Like all managers, you need to be a good communicator and capable of working in a team. You will have to use your own initiative. You must be completely committed to the theatre, as pay can be low and hours long and unsocial. You will have to remain calm under pressure, have good organisational skills, and react to unexpected developments with flexibility.
Interests - Stage Manager
This occupation is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests:
Enterprising
Enterprising people like situations that involve using resources for personal or corporate economic gain. Such people may have an opportunistic frame of mind, and are drawn to commerce, trade and making deals. Some pursue sales and marketing occupations. Many will eventually end up owning their own business, or in management roles in larger organisations. They tend to be very goal-oriented and work best when focused on a target. Some have an entrepreneurial inclination.
Creative
Creative people are drawn to careers and activities that enable them to take responsibility for the design, layout or sensory impact of something (visual, auditory etc). They may be atrracted to the traditional artistic pursuits such as painting, sculpture, singing, or music. Or they may show more interest in design activities, such as architecture, animation, or craft areas, such as pottery and ceramics.
Creative people use their personal understanding of people and the world they live in to guide their work. Creative people like to work in unstructured workplaces, enjoy taking risks and prefer a minimum of routine.
Realist
Realists are usually interested in 'things' - such as buildings, mechanics, equipment, tools, electronics etc. Their primary focus is dealing with these - as in building, fixing, operating or designing them. Involvement in these areas leads to high manual skills, or a fine aptitude for practical design - as found in the various forms of engineering.
Realists like to find practical solutions to problems using tools, technology and skilled work. Realists usually prefer to be active in their work environment, often do most of their work alone, and enjoy taking decisive action with a minimum amount of discussion and paperwork.
Entry / Progression - Stage Manager
Entry is possible with a range of different qualifications, but certain subject areas may increase your chances of success i.e. Drama or theatre studies; performing arts; music. Relevant courses in drama and theatre studies, and stage management /technical theatre up to degree level, are available. Employers will typically also expect some practical, or performance-related experience.
Sample Education and Training Pathways
A number of courses are available throughout the country that focus on learning and skills that may be useful for this career. The examples and links below may guide you in your research.
Further Education (FET)
Further Education & Training (FET) Courses are delivered by local ETBs, ranging in duration from several weeks up to 20 months. Courses are designed to meet the labour market needs and often include a large element of work experience.
Example search terms include: broadcasting, media, management.
Search for FET Courses
PLC Courses (FET)
PLC courses are full-time courses, one or two years duration, with awards at Level 5 and 6 on the NFQ. They are offered nationally in Schools and Colleges of Further Education.
Example search terms include: music, acting, theatre and performing arts, drama, dance, broadcasting, event management, sound engineering, theatre, technical theatre, lighting sound and stage management courses.
Search for PLC Courses
Higher Education CAO (Undergraduate)
Higher Education courses at Levels 6 to 8 on the NFQ, delivered in Universities and Technological Universities & Institutes. Courses run from 2 – 5 years and places are allocated on a points-based system, processed by the Central Application Office.
Example search terms include: music, acting, theatre and performing arts, drama, dance, broadcasting, sound engineering, media, stage management and technical theatre courses.
Search for CAO Courses
Higher Education (Postgraduate)
Postgraduate courses are courses at Levels 9 and 10 on the NFQ and usually last 1 – 2 years full time, or longer if a PhD or part time. Entrants typically require an undergraduate award (Level 8).
Example search terms include: music, acting, theatre and performing arts, drama, dance, broadcasting, sound engineering, media, stage design courses.
Search for Postgraduate Courses
Professional Development
Professional development (CPD) courses are specialised training, formal education, or advanced professional learning that improves skills, professional knowledge, competency, and overall effectiveness in the professional world.
Check the Useful Contacts tab on this page to see if there are any professional bodies listed who may provide training related to this career.
Pay & Salary - Stage Manager
Salary Range (thousands per year)* €30k - €60k
Salaries vary based on employer, location, experience, duties, and role.
Data Source(s):
Glassdoor/ Indeed/ Payscale/ Talent/ Salary Expert
Last Updated: July, 2024
Labour Market Updates - Stage Manager
Note: The following information relates to occupations that include: Artists, Authors, writers and translators, Actors, entertainers and presenters, Dancers and choreographers, Musicians, Arts officers, producers and directors, Photographers, audio-visual and broadcasting equipment operators, Graphic designers, Product, clothing and related designers.
This information has been derived from the Solas National Skills Bulletin (2024).
Employment growth was almost on a par with the national average for this occupation; employment grew strongly between 2021 and 2022 but declined slightly thereafter. Based on the CSO Census data, over a quarter were graphic designers, with other key roles including actors, authors/writers, photographers, artists and arts officers.
Employment permits issued in 2023 were primarily for roles in animation, film and TV. Online job adverts (Eurostat/CEDEFOP) related mainly to graphic designers. At present, the data does not indicate that issues exist in sourcing skills for this occupation.
Useful Contacts - Stage Manager
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Irish Actors Equity Group (SIPTU)
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Abbey Theatre
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Olympia Theatre
- Dame Street, Dublin 2
- (01) 679 3323
- Click Here
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Gate Theatre
