Behind the Scenes: Stage Management at a Live Music Event

• Music Business
• Special Education

Behind the Scenes: Stage Management at a Live Music Event

Learning Objective

At the end of the lesson, you should be able to explain all elements of stage management at a live music event.

Introduce the learning objective to the students and explain what they will be able to do by the end of the lesson.

What do you already know about stage management at a live music event?

What is Stage Management?

Stage management is the practice of coordinating and directing all aspects of a live performance. It involves overseeing the technical and organisational aspects of a performance to ensure that everything runs smoothly.

Define stage management and explain its importance in the context of a live music event.

Roles and Responsibilities

The stage manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the performance, including coordinating with the venue, managing the technical crew and performers, and ensuring that everything runs according to schedule.

Explain the role of the stage manager and the various responsibilities that they have.

Communication

Effective communication is crucial in stage management. The stage manager must communicate clearly with the performers, technical crew, and other staff members to ensure that everyone is on the same page.

Discuss the importance of communication in stage management and provide examples of how communication breakdowns can lead to problems during a live performance.

Preparation - Schedules

Preparation is key in stage management. The stage manager must create a detailed schedule and ensure that all necessary equipment and personnel are in place before the performance begins.

Explain how preparation is important in stage management and provide examples of how a lack of preparation can lead to problems during a live performance.

Technical Elements

Stage management also involves managing the technical elements of a performance, such as lighting, sound, and special effects. The stage manager and sound team must ensure that all technical aspects are working properly and are integrated seamlessly into the performance. 

Introduce the technical elements of stage management and explain the role of the stage manager in managing these elements.

Rehearsals & Sound Check

Rehearsals are an important part of stage management. The stage manager must ensure that all performers and technical crew members are present and prepared for rehearsals, and must oversee the rehearsal process to ensure that everything runs smoothly. A rehearsal is often also accompanies by a sound check.

Explain the importance of rehearsals in stage management and provide examples of how rehearsals can help to prevent problems during a live performance.

Stage Directions

Stage directions are an important part of stage management. The stage manager must provide clear and concise stage directions to the performers and technical crew members to ensure that everyone knows where they need to be and what they need to do. With a lack of clear stage direction, a live event can fall to pieces. 

Explain the role of stage directions in stage management and provide examples of how unclear stage directions can lead to problems during a live performance.

Cue Sheets

Cue sheets are a crucial part of stage management. They provide a detailed list of all technical and performance cues, and help the stage manager to keep track of everything that needs to happen during the performance.

Some artists/bands live performance requires a huge and detailed cue lists whereas other request very little. Lighting teams have to abide by a very strict plan and do not freestyle!

Introduce cue sheets and explain their importance in stage management. Provide examples of how cue sheets can help to prevent problems during a live performance.

Emergency Preparedness

In addition to managing the technical and organizational aspects of a performance, the stage manager must also be prepared for emergencies. They must have a plan in place for dealing with any potential emergencies, such as power outages or medical emergencies.

Explain the importance of emergency preparedness in stage management and provide examples of how a lack of preparedness can lead to problems during a live performance.

Time Management

Time management is crucial in stage management. The stage manager must ensure that the performance runs according to schedule and that everything happens at the right time. If an events time management does not run smoothly, this can lead to acts being unable to perform and disappointed customers.

Discuss the importance of time management in stage management and provide examples of how poor time management can lead to problems during a live performance.

Problem Solving

Problem solving is an important part of stage management. The stage manager must be able to think on their feet and come up with solutions to any problems that arise during the performance.

Explain the importance of problem solving in stage management and provide examples of common problems that can arise during a live performance.

Summary

Stage management is a crucial part of any live music event. The stage manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the performance, from technical elements to emergency preparedness. Effective communication, preparation, and problem solving are all key elements of successful stage management.

Summarize the main points of the lesson and emphasize the importance of stage management in ensuring a successful live performance.

Quiz

What is the role of the stage manager in a live music event?

What are some of the skills a stage manager needs?

Why is it important that a stage manager manages time affectively?

Use the quiz to assess students' understanding of the material covered in the lesson.