Student Blog: A Performer Backstage

I learned many things being an assistant stage manager for UNC's spring musical. Aside from the constant hunger and exhaustion it was an incredibly positive experience. I thought that I would share some things I learned along the way for the people reading this who are performers. I hope sharing my experience will enlighten some people who may be new to the backstage scene, and help performers understand how they can be better performers for the crew.

To recap some of my obligations as an ASM, I was in charge of many different jobs. I was required to be at every rehearsal and would have to come in early and stay late. Throughout this part of the rehearsal process, it is a little bit slower as a technician. We would put rehearsal spike tape down for the stage pieces, record dances and scenes, and just keep up with general planning of breaks and attendance throughout the day. As small tasks came along, you would take them. Once we relocated to be on the main stage I was always on my feet. I was in charge of the entirety of stage left including my stage crew, scene shifts, props, and anything that goes wrong on that side of the stage.

Behind the scenes can be incredibly chaotic and fast paced. There are moving set pieces, costume changes, props, actors entering and exiting, sometimes even injuries or mistakes. Of course, that's when the real stories come, but there are ways to make this life a bit easier for everyone in the wings. The biggest and most important thing I learned being an assistant stage manager is kindness. You can never be too kind to the people around you, especially in the midst of disaster. It's easy to let the chaos of the show and your perfectionism get in the way of your character, but you just have to keep checking in with yourself and finding ways to keep the peace and be kind.

I think this correlates very closely with being grateful. As a performer sometimes it's hard for us to think about anything other than our obligations. The tech people behind the scenes are doing just as much if not more work than we are doing. It's important for us to be grateful for what they do and a simple thank you goes a long way. In our production of Cinderella, the girl who played Ella brought everyone that was a part of the crew a gift for the show. I thought this is one of the sweetest things I've seen behind the scenes, albeit a little ironic she was also playing Cinderella. Gifts aren't necessary for gratitude, with whatever you are capable of doing, just say thank you!

The more you know about the technological side of performance, the better! Try to learn about anything and everything you can. It can only make you a better performer, and it will be even more attractive to who you're working with and your casting directors. If your school requires you to do a run crew for a show, don't take it for granted! It's a great opportunity to learn even more about our craft. I loved every minute of being an ASM and I think I am way more well-rounded and knowledgeable now that I had that experience.

Overall try to stay open-minded, kind, and grateful. The world of theater has a lot of moving parts, but we're all in this together. Keep trying to grow as a person, whether that be in your own skills and craft or in your personality. Every show is an opportunity for growth and every part to play has room for growth!

Photo Credit to the University of Northern Colorado

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