Assistant Stage Manager

Career Guide

An Assistant Stage Manager supports the Stage Manager in running rehearsals and live performances. The role focuses on keeping people, schedules, and cues organized so a production stays safe, on time, and consistent from show to show.

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Key Responsibilities

Track rehearsal schedules and daily call times
Record blocking and stage movement notes
Prepare and update rehearsal reports
Set up rehearsal spaces and backstage areas
Run backstage check-ins and sign-ins
Coordinate prop handoffs and preset checks
Support cue execution during performances
Communicate changes quickly to cast and crew
Monitor safety and backstage traffic
Handle performance notes and post-show reports

Top Skills for Success

Attention to Detail

Clear Communication

Time Management

Calm Under Pressure

Team Coordination

Note Taking

Cue Tracking

Backstage Operations

Safety Awareness

Rehearsal Management

Career Progression

Can Lead To

Stage Manager

Production Stage Manager

Company Manager

Production Manager

Tour Manager

Transition Opportunities

Event Producer

Operations Coordinator

Project Manager

Production Coordinator

Venue Operations Manager

Common Skill Gaps

Often Missing Skills

Cue Calling FundamentalsShow DocumentationConflict De-escalationUnion Rules FamiliarityTechnical Theater BasicsScheduling

Development SuggestionsBuild a clean prompt book sample, practice writing concise rehearsal reports, shadow a Stage Manager during tech rehearsals, and take a basic safety training course focused on backstage environments.

Salary & Demand

Median Salary Range

Entry LevelUSD 35,000 to 50,000 per year

Mid LevelUSD 50,000 to 70,000 per year

Senior LevelUSD 70,000 to 95,000 per year

Growth Trend

Stable overall, with hiring strongest in touring productions, regional theaters, live events, and high-volume entertainment venues. Work is often project-based and can fluctuate by season and city.

Companies Hiring

Major Employers

Regional theater companiesBroadway and West End productionsTouring production companiesOpera companiesBallet companiesTheme parksCruise linesLive event production companiesPerforming arts centersUniversities with theater programs

Industry Sectors

TheaterLive entertainmentPerforming artsTouring showsEventsHospitality entertainmentEducation

Recommended Next Steps

Create a portfolio with rehearsal reports, tracking sheets, and a sample prompt book section

Volunteer or apprentice with a local theater to gain show run experience

Ask to shadow during a tech rehearsal to learn cue workflows

Strengthen documentation habits with consistent templates and checklists

Network with production teams through theater groups and local venues

Target roles on touring shows and high-volume venues to build repetition and speed