Stage Manager Resume Guide
Stage Managers are responsible for managing the production of a show, from pre-production to post-show wrap up. They coordinate rehearsals and performances with actors, directors, designers, crew members and other stakeholders in order to ensure that all aspects of the production run smoothly. Additionally they are also responsible for tracking budgets and schedules as well as handling any technical issues or emergencies that may arise during a performance.
You have a knack for keeping the show running smoothly and are an invaluable asset to any production. But theatre directors don’t know who you are yet. To make them aware of your stage management abilities, you must create a resume that stands out from the crowd.
This guide will walk you through the entire process of creating a top-notch resume. We first show you a complete example and then break down what each resume section should look like.
Table of Contents
The guide is divided into sections for your convenience. You can read it from beginning to end or use the table of contents below to jump to a specific part.
Stage Manager Resume Sample
Mitchel Bernhard
Stage Manager
[email protected]
526-009-5164
linkedin.com/in/mitchel-bernhard
Summary
Skilled stage manager with 10+ years of experience in both live and digital production. Expertise includes overseeing budgets, creating storylines that align with the company’s vision, and managing a team of up to 20 people. At XYZ Productions, managed over 45 events worldwide while maintaining quality control standards across multiple locations simultaneously. Received “Employee of the Month” award for consistently exceeding expectations on time and budget goals.
Experience
Stage Manager, Employer A
Charlotte, Jan 2018 – Present
- Streamlined the organization of large-scale theatrical productions and managed crew operations, overseeing every step of production from pre-show preparations to post-show evaluations; reduced downtime by 25% while ensuring all safety protocols were met.
- Supervised a team of 15 cast members and stage technicians during rehearsals, providing guidance on script interpretation, lighting cues and sound effects; successfully completed two full runs prior to opening night with no disruptions.
- Meticulously maintained the equipment inventory for each show including microphones, speakers, props & scenery elements; kept track of damaged items or those in need repairs resulting in $1,500 saved over budgeted costs last year alone.
- Expedited setup time between acts by coordinating loading/unloading activities backstage among cast & crew teams while communicating important details via headset communication system within 30 minutes maximum per transition period.
- Reduced labor hours required for resetting stages by 40%, performing minor repairs when necessary such as tightening screws or replacing broken parts before every performance thereby avoiding potential damages mid-way through shows.
Stage Manager, Employer B
Vancouver, Mar 2012 – Dec 2017
- Assessed the needs of over 100 production staff, scheduled and monitored their activities to ensure that all technical tasks necessary for a successful stage performance were completed on time.
- Scheduled and organized rehearsals, performances and special events with precision; minimized show delays by 15% in the past quarter alone.
- Monitored sound systems, lighting equipment & other technical aspects of each stage production; proactively identified potential problems before they arose – eliminating costly repairs or replacements from occurring.
- Competently handled all administrative matters associated with productions such as budgeting, preparing cast lists & crew reports, maintaining props inventory etc.; reduced paperwork errors by 10%.
- Participated actively in meetings between directors/producers to discuss ideas for upcoming shows; provided valuable input which resulted in an increase of ticket sales revenue by $15K the following season.
Skills
- Stage Management
- Theatre
- Entertainment
- Stage
- Event Management
- Performing Arts
- Musical Theatre
- Theatrical Production
- Music
Education
Bachelor of Arts in Theatre Arts
Educational Institution XYZ
Nov 2011
Certifications
Certified Production Manager
United States Institute for Theatre Technology (USITT
May 2017
1. Summary / Objective
The summary/objective at the beginning of your stage manager resume should be a brief but powerful statement that captures the essence of who you are and why you excel in this role. Include details such as how many years of experience you have, what types of productions or events you’ve managed, any awards or recognition received for your work, and how well-versed you are with different software programs used to manage shows.
Below are some resume summary examples:
Energetic stage manager with 5+ years of experience in theatrical and live events production. Proven track record for successfully managing all aspects of event planning, including budgeting, scheduling, logistics coordination and risk management. At XYZ Productions contributed to a 20% reduction in overall costs while still delivering high-quality results on time. Looking forward to leveraging my skills at ABC Entertainment Group’s next big show!
Professional stage manager with 7+ years of experience in theater production. Proven track record of successfully coordinating multiple tasks and personnel during live performances, ensuring that the show runs smoothly. Skilled at troubleshooting technical issues and on-the-fly problem solving to keep shows running without disruption or interruption. Highly organized and detail oriented, looking to join ABC Theatre as their next Stage Manager.
Committed and experienced stage manager with 10+ years of experience in the theatre industry. Proven track record of successfully planning, organizing and executing multiple theatrical productions. Skilled at troubleshooting any problems that arise during performances to ensure smooth running shows. Experienced in managing large production teams while maintaining professionalism and providing clear instructions for every team member involved.
Amicable and knowledgeable stage manager with 8+ years of experience in the entertainment industry. Proven track record of successful project management, budgeting, problem-solving, and team building. Skilled at creating seamless transitions between scenes for theatrical productions as well as live concerts and events. Seeking to join ABC Entertainment Group’s production team to bring innovative ideas that will enhance their performances.
Dependable stage manager with 5+ years of experience in the production industry. Skilled at coordinating and managing theatrical productions while working within tight time constraints. At XYZ Theatre, successfully handled 10 high-profile musicals and plays over 3 years as stage manager. Received company “Employee of the Year” award for efficient management style that brought rave reviews from critics and audiences alike.
Hard-working stage manager with 10+ years of experience in theatrical production. Accomplished at managing crews, coordinating events and rehearsals, delegating tasks to crew members while maintaining the highest standards of safety. Experienced in budgeting for productions as well as scheduling and running technical rehearsals. Proven track record of successful management on over 50 theatre shows produced globally.
Accomplished stage manager with 10+ years of experience in theater, film and television. Expertly managed shows from pre-production to post-production, ensuring that all deadlines were met on time and within budget. Experience includes overseeing a team of 25 crew members for multiple projects simultaneously. Skilled at problem solving and multitasking while managing creative teams during intense schedules.
Determined stage manager with 5+ years of experience in theatrical productions. Skilled at overseeing all facets of production, from budgeting and scheduling to costume design and set construction. At XYZ Theatre Company, successfully managed the opening night performance for a musical that sold out within two days. Seeking to join ABC’s renowned theatre company as the next Stage Manager.
2. Experience / Employment
The work history/experience section of your resume should be written in reverse chronological order, meaning the most recent job is listed first. When writing this section, stick to bullet points and provide detail about what you did and the results you achieved.
For example, instead of saying “Managed stage production,” you could say, “Coordinated a team of 15+ people for a large-scale theatrical production; successfully completed all tasks on time with no major incidents.” Doing so allows employers to quickly understand how effective you were at managing stage productions.
To write effective bullet points, begin with a strong verb or adverb. Industry specific verbs to use are:
- Coordinated
- Scheduled
- Directed
- Monitored
- Supervised
- Managed
- Produced
- Troubleshot
- Assisted
- Negotiated
- Collaborated
- Delegated
- Organized
- Budgeted
- Evaluated
Other general verbs you can use are:
- Achieved
- Advised
- Assessed
- Compiled
- Demonstrated
- Developed
- Expedited
- Facilitated
- Formulated
- Improved
- Introduced
- Mentored
- Optimized
- Participated
- Prepared
- Presented
- Reduced
- Reorganized
- Represented
- Revised
- Spearheaded
- Streamlined
- Structured
- Utilized
Below are some example bullet points:
- Substantially reduced stage setup times by 30% through implementing more efficient processes and systems.
- Spearheaded the production of 3 successful musicals with a total budget of $150,000; managed over 40 crew members and worked closely with directors to ensure all performances ran smoothly.
- Achieved flawless execution across 100+ live shows in 4 different venues, ensuring that audiences were given an unforgettable experience every time they attended a performance.
- Collaborated closely with technical staff on lighting & sound design for each show, helping create the desired ambience while ensuring safety standards were always met or exceeded at all times.
- Budgeted effectively for upcoming productions and supervised equipment maintenance operations to keep costs low without compromising quality – saved up to 10% compared to previous years’ expenses.
- Organized and managed all production elements for 30+ stage productions, resulting in a 15% increase in overall audience attendance.
- Mentored a team of 10+ staff members on the technical aspects of stage management; delegated tasks efficiently to ensure timely delivery of every show.
- Structured rehearsals & performances with precision and accuracy, managing over 80 actors/performers while adhering to tight budgets and deadlines at all times.
- Confidently operated sound & lighting equipment during live shows as part of backstage operations; reduced setup time by 35%.
- Improved communication between departments through regular meetings, ensuring smooth transitions from pre-production to post-production phases without any delays or hiccups.
- Assisted the theatre production team with day-to-day operations, including setting up for rehearsals and performances; managed over 25 stage crew members during 8 live shows per week.
- Formulated strategies to reduce staging setup time from 6 hours to 4 hours on average; saved $1,800 in labor costs every month.
- Utilized a variety of audio/visual equipment such as microphones and amplifiers while managing all technical aspects of performance settings before, during and after events; improved sound quality by 30%.
- Proficiently operated lighting systems according to show script cues while maintaining strict safety protocols throughout the entire process; reduced injury risks by 50%.
- Optimized theater space utilization through meticulous planning & organization of props backstage based on director’s instructions each night; increased efficiency levels by 24% overall.
- Presented technical elements for 25 theatrical stage productions, including organizing and setting up sound systems, lighting equipment and props; reduced setup time by 35%.
- Reorganized the backstage area for 20 theater performances to ensure that all essential materials were easily accessible during each show; improved cast performance times by 10%.
- Diligently managed a team of 15 crew members throughout rehearsals and shows, providing direction on scene changes while monitoring safety protocols at all times.
- Facilitated smooth transitions between acts in 12 Broadway-style musicals through well-coordinated communication with cast/crew members over headset radios; increased audience satisfaction ratings by 5% every season.
- Revised scripts as needed to adapt lines or character actions based on input from directors, actors & producers; successfully incorporated feedback without detracting from the overall production quality within 24 hours per request.
- Directed and coordinated the production of 20+ theatrical performances, ensuring that all sets and props were set up on time and within budget.
- Managed a team of 10 stage hands to carry out all technical tasks during rehearsals and showtimes; successfully completed setup for 4 large-scale musicals in an average of 8 hours each.
- Successfully liaised with directors, choreographers, musicians & other artistic staff members to ensure smooth transitions between scenes onstage; delegated appropriate duties based on individual strengths and skillsets.
- Delegated responsibilities related to cleaning/storing equipment after shows as well as prepping supplies before each performance; reduced overall costs by 15%.
- Advised actors on proper use of microphones/costumes/props while also providing feedback pertaining to their delivery onstage; improved quality control ratings by 12% over 3 months period.
- Prepared and coordinated up to 8 stage productions per month; increased total audience by 30% in the last quarter.
- Evaluated production design elements, including lighting, sound equipment, scenery and props; reduced operating costs by $1,500 monthly.
- Produced a series of successful off-Broadway shows with budgets ranging from $10K-$30K while maintaining quality standards throughout all stages of development.
- Negotiated contracts for freelance personnel such as actors/actresses, directors and technicians while adhering to union regulations at all times; saved an average of 20% on contracted services annually compared to market rates.
- Efficiently managed backstage operations (e. G crew calls & rehearsals) prior to performances using digital scheduling tools; decreased event preparation time by 40 hours per week on average over 14 weeks.
- Independently managed the technical aspects of over 40 theatrical productions, including lighting, sound, props and scenery; saved $2K in equipment costs by reusing assets from prior shows.
- Introduced a new scheduling system for rehearsals that improved cast attendance by 15% and enabled smoother transitions between scenes during performances.
- Developed strong relationships with directors to ensure timely delivery of materials needed on set or stage while adhering strictly to budget constraints.
- Represented the theater company at conferences and networking events; facilitated 5+ partnerships with local businesses that resulted in increased ticket sales revenue of $1K per month on average.
- Demonstrated excellent leadership skills when managing a team of 10 production staff members who were responsible for setting up/breaking down backdrops & other items before/after each showtime.
- Coordinated the backstage activities of 45+ performers and technical personnel, ensuring smooth transitions between acts while overseeing the implementation of stage directions to a live audience.
- Troubleshot complex equipment malfunctions in high-pressure scenarios with an accuracy rate of 95%, minimizing disruption to performances and staying within budget.
- Accurately recorded daily progress reports on all rehearsals, lighting & sound checks for up to 5 shows per day; regularly updated production notes for future reference as needed.
- Compiled comprehensive event budgets ranging from $20K-$50K, tracking expenses down to the last penny in order to remain within allocated funds; saved 8% on average by sourcing affordable suppliers & vendors each month.
3. Skills
Even though two organizations are hiring for the same role, the skillset they want an ideal candidate to possess could differ significantly. For instance, one may be on the lookout for an individual with experience in using a particular software, while the other may require knowledge of different lighting techniques.
Your skills section should be tailored to each job that you apply for; this is important because many employers use applicant tracking systems (ATS) these days. These are computer programs designed to scan resumes for certain keywords before passing them on to a human being.
In addition, it would also benefit your application if you elaborated on some of your most relevant skills in other areas such as the summary or experience sections.
Below is a list of common skills & terms:
- Acting
- Arts Administration
- Audio Engineering
- Broadcast
- Comedy
- Creative Writing
- Dance
- Directing
- Drama
- Editing
- Entertainment
- Event Management
- Festivals
- Film
- Film Production
- Final Cut Pro
- Improvisation
- Lighting
- Live Events
- Live Sound
- Music
- Music Industry
- Music Production
- Musical Theatre
- Performing Arts
- Photography
- Plays
- Production Management
- Shakespeare
- Singing
- Social Media Marketing
- Social Networking
- Sound
- Stage
- Stage Lighting
- Stage Management
- Teaching
- Teamwork
- Television
- Theatre
- Theatrical Production
- Time Management
- Video
- Video Editing
- Video Production
4. Education
Adding an education section to your resume will depend on how far along you are in your career. If you have recently graduated and don’t have much experience, mention your education below the objective statement. However, if you have been working as a stage manager for many years with plenty of accomplishments to showcase, omitting the education section is perfectly fine.
If an education section is included, try to mention courses and subjects related to the stage management role such as theater production or lighting design that may be relevant for potential employers.
Bachelor of Arts in Theatre Arts
Educational Institution XYZ
Nov 2011
5. Certifications
Certifications are a great way to demonstrate your knowledge and proficiency in a given field. They also show that you have kept up with the latest industry trends and developments, which is something employers value highly.
If you possess any certifications relevant to the job position, make sure they are included on your resume as it could be what sets you apart from other applicants.
Certified Production Manager
United States Institute for Theatre Technology (USITT
May 2017
6. Contact Info
Your name should be the first thing a reader sees when viewing your resume, so ensure its positioning is prominent. Your phone number should be written in the most commonly used format in your country/city/state, and your email address should be professional.
You can also choose to include a link to your LinkedIn profile, personal website, or other online platforms relevant to your industry.
Finally, name your resume file appropriately to help hiring managers; for Mitchel Bernhard, this would be Mitchel-Bernhard-resume.pdf or Mitchel-Bernhard-resume.docx.
7. Cover Letter
Cover letters are a great way to introduce yourself to potential employers and showcase your skills. They are typically made up of 2-4 paragraphs, separate from the resume, that provide more detail about who you are and why you’re an excellent fit for the role.
Although cover letters aren’t always required when applying for jobs, they can give recruiters additional insights into what makes you special as a professional. Writing one is highly recommended if there’s any chance it will help set you apart from other candidates competing for the same position.
Below is an example cover letter:
Dear Jefferey,
I am writing in response to your recent posting for a Stage Manager. Having worked as a stage manager for the past 10 years, I believe I have the experience and skills needed to be successful in this role.
In my current position, I am responsible for managing all aspects of the production process, from pre-production through post-show strike. This includes coordinating with the director and design team to ensure that all elements are in place and ready for rehearsal, overseeing the running of rehearsals and performances, maintaining backstage operations during shows, and handling any issues that may arise. My organizational skills and ability to stay calm under pressure have been crucial in ensuring that each production runs smoothly.
In addition to my stage management experience, I also have a strong background in technical theatre. I am knowledgeable about lighting design and rigging, set construction and strike, sound design and operation, prop sourcing and management, costume maintenance, hair and makeup design,and general onstage/backstage safety procedures. This knowledge has proven invaluable in troubleshooting problems that may arise during a production.
I would welcome the opportunity to bring my experience and expertise to your organization as your next Stage Manager. Please find attached a copy of my resume for your review; if you have any questions or would like to discuss further details of this position please do not hesitate to contact me at [phone number] or [email address]. Thank you for your time & consideration!
Sincerely,
Mitchel