Title: Caught The Travel Bug? Try Stage Managing!
Hi, this is Mel from brokeGIRLrich. One thing I love about being a stage manager is the amazing opportunity it provides to travel. You work on terrific productions with extraordinary people to create unforgettable moments for the audience. But the biggest perk? Definitely the chance to see the world.
Whether you’re touring with a Broadway show, involved in a regional theater in another state, or even working abroad – each opportunity is unique and remarkable.
Traveling while managing the stage introduces you to new cities, distinct cultures, and different surroundings that probably wouldn’t have been possible otherwise. Me? I’m just one state away from covering the whole of America! I’ve also had the privilege to extensively explore the Caribbean, Europe, and Central America during my cruising years, and even spent some time in the Middle East.
Being a stage manager requires adaptability, and trust me, traveling cultivates this skill. You become proficient at moving through new cities, communicating with people from different backgrounds, and finding your way around new venues. Working with various cultures has not only expanded my horizon but made me appreciate the strengths of my home country, America.
Travel as a part of your job also allows you to work with numerous companies, each teaching you something new. Every theater company has diverse methods and technology, exposing you to a variety of techniques and philosophies. It’s also a perfect opportunity to grow your network and learn from directors, designers, and performers. And if you find someone with a great system of doing things, ‘borrow’ it (in a good way, of course). It’ll be a valuable addition to your own repertoire.
The experience you gain while traveling is priceless, especially for those starting their careers. You learn the nitty-gritty of stage management hands-on – working with unique crews, adapting to different schedules, improvising solutions to pressing problems – and you get to build a fascinating resume.
Does it sound all work and no play? Not quite! Tours with longer schedules give you time to relax, explore the locality, and perhaps even enjoy a mini vacation before or after the gig.
Are you someone who travels for work? I’d love to know about your exciting journeys!