Seminar paper in the subject Theater Studies, Dance, grade: 5.0 (=A), Obafemi Awolowo University (Dramatic Arts), course: Stage Management, language: English, abstract: Welcome to the world behind the curtains, where every scene, every cue, and every emotion seamlessly weave together to create the magic of theatre. In the heart of this enchanting realm lies a crucial tool, often overlooked yet indispensable — the Prompt Book. Originally conceived as "Art and Science of Crafting a Comprehensive Prompt Book for Stage Plays and Dance Performances: A Guide for Stage Managers", this study by Gbenga Emmanuel Adeboye delves into the intricate artistry and practical methodologies of stage management, condensed and refined into the succinct title "Prompt Book: A Guide for Theatre Stage Managers". Imagine being handed a treasure map that guides you through the labyrinth of a theatrical production, ensuring that every actor's entrance, every lighting change, and every sound effect unfolds with precision and grace. This is the essence of the prompt book — a roadmap meticulously crafted by the stage manager, serving as the backbone of every successful performance. But why is this study essential? Why should every aspiring and seasoned stage manager alike delve into its pages? Firstly, the prompt book is not just a mere collection of notes; it is the lifeline of a production. It encapsulates the director’s vision, the actor’s journey, and the technical intricacies that breathe life into a performance. Without a well-prepared prompt book, chaos ensues, and the magic on stage falters. Secondly, "Prompt Book: A Guide for Theatre Stage Managers" goes beyond theory; it is a practical manual designed to empower stage managers with actionable insights. From creating a production bible (prompt book) to managing rehearsals, cueing sequences, and handling emergencies, this book navigates through the complexities of stage management in the simplest, most comprehensible manner.

The Stage Director’s Prompt Book is a step-by-step, detailed guide on how to create a practical and powerful rehearsal and performance tool—the director’s prompt book. A prompt book is a coordinating and organizational tool for the stage director. This book systematizes the creative process the director uses to analyze and interpret a play and coordinates all director-related rehearsal and production activities into a single, self-contained interpretive and organizational system. This book guides the director through the necessary steps and stages of creating and using a prompt book—from play analysis and interpretation, through the formation of a dynamic and theatrical director’s vision, to a unique method of physicalizing a play in production. A prompt book of a one-act play is included in the book as a complete example of the system. Such techniques as redlining, color coding and creating a three-column left-hand page are vividly illustrated for readers, allowing them to assemble their own prompt books. In a clear and example-driven format, The Stage Director’s Prompt Book offers a system of directorial interpretation that takes the director through a series of point-by point instructions to construct a strong, effective and creative instrument for success. For the undergraduate and graduate student of theatre directing, stage management and producing courses, along with aspiring professional directors, this book provides an interactive and intuitive approach to personalize the stage directing experience and assemble a graphically dynamic and creative director’s prompt book.

The Stage Manager’s Toolkit provides a comprehensive account of the role of the stage manager for live theatre with a focus on both written and verbal communication best practices. The book outlines the duties of the stage manager and assistant stage manager throughout a production, discussing not only what to do but why. The book identifies communication objectives for each phase of production, paperwork to be created, and the necessary questions to be answered in order to ensure success. This book was written for Stage Management courses in Theatre programs and for the working professional.

The Stage Manager’s Toolkit, Third Edition provides a comprehensive account of the role of the stage manager for live theatre with a focus on both written and verbal communication best practices. The book outlines the duties of the stage manager and assistant stage manager throughout a production, discussing not only what to do but why. It also identifies communication objectives for each phase of production, paperwork to be created, and the necessary questions to be answered in order to ensure success. This third edition includes: an updated look at digital stage management tools including script apps, cloud storage, and social media practices; a new discussion on creating a healthy and safe rehearsal space; updated paperwork examples; new information on Equity practices for the student and early career stage managers. Written for the stage management student and early career stage manager, this book is a perfect companion to any university Stage Management course. A companion website hosts customizable paperwork templates, instructional video, links to additional information, teacher tools for each individual chapter, and a bonus chapter on teaching stage management.

How do you develop the craft and skills of stage management for today's theatre industry? And how can these same skills be applied in a variety of entertainment settings to help you develop a rewarding and successful career? Drawing on his diverse experience working with companies from across the performing arts spectrum in venues from the Hollywood Bowl to the Barbican Centre in London, Michael Vitale offers a practical resource on the art of stage management for new and established stage managers. Besides providing detailed coverage of the role within theatre, the book uniquely explores the field of stage management in numerous branches of the entertainment industry. From theatre, opera, and theme parks, to cruise ships, special events, and dance, stage managers are an integral part of keeping productions running, and this book offers guidance on each distinct area to equip you for a varied and successful career. Written with candour and filled with real-world examples, the book examines the nuts and bolts of the job at each stage of the production process: from preproduction, room rehearsal, technical rehearsal, through to running the show. Vitale considers the skills needed to work with a myriad of different people, explores the traits of a successful stage manager, and helps you to hone and evaluate your own practice. Whether you are exploring the field for the first time or are a veteran looking to diversify your resumé, Introduction to the Art of Stage Management will provide insight, practical information, and useful tips to help along the way. An accompanying Companion Website features a range of time-saving templates and forms, such as schedule templates and scene samples. https://www.bloomsbury.com/uk/introduction-to-the-art-of-stage-management-9781474257190/

Stage Manager: the Professional Experience—Refreshed takes the reader through all aspects of the craft of stage management in theatre, from prompt books and technology to relationships and people management. Using interviews with other professional stage managers, the author provides a practical, experience-based guide for students and aspiring professionals alike, offering an extensive discussion of what makes a good stage manager and working through the life of a production.

Here is a practical, accessible introduction to one of the most complex jobs in theatre. Linda Apperson clearly and concisely leads the reader through the procedures and responsibilities of stage management, from auditions to closing night. What is “blocking”? How do you “call” a show? Who is the technical director, and why do you want him or her as your best friend? How can you tame (or endure) a prima donna? When is the best time to offer advice to the actors? Ms. Apperson answers these and countless other questions in a resource book that will become a constant companion for both the novice and the experienced theatre person. Especially useful is her attention to personal relationships among actors and crew. She insists that working to create an atmosphere of respect backstage will improve the show onstage, and she shows precisely how this is done, based upon her years of experience in managing the stage. Stage Managing and Theatre Etiquette includes samples of prompt scripts and other essential stage manager’s tools.