Let’s Talk about iPad Apps for Stage Managers
Some few years back, I was introduced to iPads by an assistant stage manager (ASM) on a show I was working on. She was quite good at it, managing all her notes and various documents on the iPad. Not convinced I needed one, I took my time to invest in an iPad. I eventually bought a 7th generation model, cheaper than the Pro I was considering.
I initially used it for checking the blocking via Stage Write, and to occasionally view the spike chart when we were setting up the stage at new venues. I ended up using it more as I often forget my printout in the stage weights box.
However, I wasn’t entirely sold on the iPad. I still needed my laptop for paperwork and reports especially as the keyboard I bought for the iPad kept misbehaving. And the idea of calling the show digitally made me nervous; the thought of it freezing or crashing was simply too anxiety-inducing.
When the pandemic hit, and I found myself doing more online shows, I took this as an opportunity to familiarize myself with iPad tech. Here’s a rundown of a couple of apps that I’ve found useful:
1. **Stage Write**: This app might be worth it for shows with a high turnover. However, it’s not necessarily faster than sketching out the blocking. On shows where a performer might be out, it can provide valuable insight into what should be covered. Still, I think its utility depends on the kind of show you’re running and your own comfort with the tech.
2. **Line-It**: This is great for line notes – a serious game changer. Most of the time, I finish my line notes by the end of rehearsal, and all I have to do is email them out. I was even able to teach my ASM how to use it in a snap!
3. **Notability**: This note-taking app took some getting used to but is now a firm favorite for reading and jotting down notes. It’s easier than a pen and paper, offering the ability to write and insert things onto PDFs.
4. **Board Remotes**: Apps for sound or light checks can be handy. Some staple names in this space are sound and light boards, or Qlab’s remote app.
Other stage managers have recommended the following:
– **GoodNotes**: Similar to Notability
– **Scriptation**: You can annotate a script
– **Line Notes**: A line noting app
– **forScore**: For sheet music
– **Evernote**: For organizing information and note-taking
– **Virtual Callboard**: Useful for scheduling, attendance, reports, and announcements.
I’d love to hear if you have any suggestions to add to this list!