Stage Managing

So as promised, here is my post about Stage Management! These will be divided into different categories;

• ·   Tips
• ·    Templates
• ·    Tutorials

(I promise the T’s was not on purpose…)

The first tip is from the PSM I am currently working with. I made a comment about how now that I am not at a music stand, my book is not at the nice incline that I like and would get from a music stand or lectern. He said he also likes his at an incline and he found a cookbook stand with adjustable incline and uses that when he is calling the show from the tech table. GENIUS! Cookbook stand is now on my list of things to look out for when I am shopping. I imagine a nice collapsible, but sturdy would be ideal, so it can fit in my backpack, but not break on the job.

I love line notes. (weird I know) But I HATE writing them out by hand… ugh. Come on people! Modern Technology and we are still living in the dark ages writing out line notes!?! no. ANYWAY here is a typing format I have adjusted and use. Click to Download I put in BOLD the words/phrases in question and will crossout things that they said wrong. Then I convert the doc to pdf and email/print as necessary. This becomes a matter of cut&paste when a digital copy of the script is available. During the run I go through the hardcopy of my script and mark with my pencil and my own shorthand. Easypeasy and super fun!

EDIT 9/5/11: Since I can't figure out how to make the link work, here is a picture of what my line mote docs look like:

As I mentioned in a previous post I am making a backstage apron as my July Apron (yes, I realize it is already August…) well I need to buy a bias tape maker and then I will be able to finish the apron. But in the mean time I will post pics of what I have done so far and the plan for finishing it.

First I had to make a template for how I wanted my apron.

Then I cut the pieces out of a $1 black bedsheet from Goodwill.

Then learn how to do the zipper I wanted so I followed the tutorials on these blogs.

http://kotkarankki.blogspot.com/2011/07/zippered-pocket-tutorial-and-bird.html

http://www.creativecutie.com/2010/06/zipper-pocket-tutorial.html

Then I made the zipper pocket for the front piece. Then I had to stop, because I want to attach the straps (made out of my homemade bias tape) on and then bias the outer edge, but alas I want the bias tape maker which I think I might get online because I think it will save me some money. But if not I shall head to JoAnns or find a place that is on my way into my job in New York City, where you can buy anything.

Until next time!