Stage Management Colleges

[domaviles]

I am a senior in high school, and I've been doing musical theater shows for about 9 years now. I love being on stage, and i love being backstage as well. At this point, I don't think I'm good enough to get into a musical theater program in college, however, i don't want to give up theater. I would be a great stage manager, but to get into a good college, you need a strong portfolio. I've only been stage manager once, and assistant stage manager twice. I've worked lights, special effects, assistant directed, but how (or should) I put that in a portfolio for college? And if so, can you give me some college names that would be good for me? Thank you!

[Gothampc]

In stage management, college isn't that important. They are looking more for experience. I would suggest looking in a magazine like ArtSearch and look for internships and production assistant jobs. If you work hard and get along with everyone, you can rise fairly quickly from intern to production assistant to stage manager.

Also, check out the professional theaters in your region. Which state are you from? Many take on run crew personnel for a show or two and this will help you get your foot in the door and a few references for the next job.

[Borstalboy]

Goths advice is good, but I know UNSCSA has a great D&P program that also includes stage management.

[GavestonPS]

I strongly disagree. EVERYONE (myself included) thinks he or she knows exactly what he or she wants at 18, but the vast majority of people change their minds (or have their minds changed for them by reality).

There are few places one can gain as much production experience as at a college. ALL theater schools are desperate for good stage managers and tech people. And if you later decide to go to law school, you have an undergrad degree already completed.

domaviles, your resume (which should list every show you have done--put the roles performed at the bottom) is more important than a portfolio to a stage manager. But if you can include some production shots for the shows where you stage managed and/or worked tech, it can only make your presentation more impressive.

Keep in mind that most schools (I taught at UCLA for years) have relatively few applicants who say they want to stage manage. That's an advantage for you. If you have good grades, etc., you may find you are competitive at even the best theater schools.

Once admitted, you can stage manage and assist-direct, and still audition for on-stage parts from time to time.

Good luck to you! (And if you decide you are ready to branch out professionally after a couple of years, there will be nothing to stop you.)