How can a stage manager work with front of house to ensure a great audience experience?
A stage manager plays a crucial role in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable theatrical experience for both the performers and the audience. By working closely with the front of house team, stage managers can help to create a cohesive and well-managed production that leaves a lasting positive impression on all attendees. In this essay, we will explore the various ways in which a stage manager can collaborate with front of house staff to create a great audience experience.
Understanding Front of House Responsibilities
The front of house (FOH) team is responsible for managing the audience’s experience before, during, and after the performance. This includes tasks such as ticket sales, ushering, seating arrangements, and managing any issues or concerns that may arise during the event. A stage manager should familiarize themselves with these responsibilities to better understand how they can support Front of House staff and contribute to an overall positive audience experience.
Communication and Collaboration
Effective communication between the stage manager and FOH team is essential for a successful production. Regular meetings and updates should be scheduled to discuss any upcoming events, potential challenges, and solutions. By establishing a clear channel of communication, both parties can work together to address any issues that may impact the audience’s experience.
Pre-Show Preparations
Prior to the performance, the stage manager can work closely with FOH staff to ensure that all necessary preparations are made. This includes:
Coordinating seating arrangements: The stage manager can provide the FOH team with information about the show’s seating requirements, such as reserved seats or accessible seating options.
Providing show-specific information: The stage manager can share details about the production, such as running times, intermissions, and content warnings, which FOH staff can then communicate to the audience.
Establishing emergency procedures: In case of an emergency, it is important to have a clear plan in place for evacuating the audience and ensuring their safety. The stage manager should collaborate with FOH staff to develop and practice these procedures.
During the Performance
The stage manager’s role during the performance is primarily focused on managing the cast and crew backstage. However, they can also contribute to a positive audience experience by:
Monitoring sound levels: The stage manager should ensure that sound levels are balanced and appropriate for the venue, ensuring that the audience can comfortably enjoy the performance.
Coordinating lighting cues: By working closely with the lighting designer and operator, the stage manager can help ensure that lighting changes are seamless and do not disrupt the audience’s experience.
Managing intermissions: The stage manager should coordinate with FOH staff to ensure that intermissions are properly managed, allowing adequate time for restroom breaks and refreshments while keeping the performance on schedule.
Addressing any issues: If any issues arise during the performance, such as disturbances from audience members or technical difficulties, the stage manager should work closely with FOH staff to address these concerns promptly and professionally.
Post-Show Engagement
After the performance, it is essential for both the stage manager and FOH team to engage with the audience to gather feedback and ensure their overall satisfaction. This can include:
Conducting surveys: The stage manager or FOH team can distribute surveys to gather input on various aspects of the production, including audience satisfaction, performance quality, and venue amenities.
Addressing concerns: If any issues were reported during the performance, the stage manager should work with FOH staff to address these concerns promptly and professionately.
Thanking the audience: Both the stage manager and FOH team should take the opportunity to thank the audience for their attendance and express appreciation for their support of live theatre. This helps create a positive impression and encourages repeat attendance at future productions.
Conclusion
By working closely with front of house staff, stage managers can play a vital role in ensuring a great audience experience at live performances. Through effective communication, collaboration, preparation, and engagement, both parties can contribute to a memorable and enjoyable event for all attendees.
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