stage manager

American  

noun

1. a person responsible for the technical details of a theatrical production, assisting the director during rehearsal, supervising the lighting, costuming, setting, prompting, etc., and assuming full responsibility for the stage during a performance of a play.

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stage manager British  

noun

1. a person who supervises the stage arrangements of a theatrical production

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Other Word Forms

• stage managership noun

Etymology

Origin of stage manager

First recorded in 1810–20

Example Sentences

He’s been a studio sound engineer, a studio manager, a stage manager, a drum tech and a crew chief.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 8, 2026

Adler worked as a stage manager, supervisor and director on more than 50 Broadway productions - after being offered his first job by his father, who worked in the industry, while at university.

From BBC • Aug. 24, 2025

Nevell, Sloan and Ed F. Martin as Baldy, the troupe’s loyal stage manager, all impress in a company that makes a virtue of inconspicuous excellence.

From Los Angeles Times • May 21, 2025

At DanceAfrica, N’Goma is a stage manager; Normadien is assistant stage manager.

From New York Times • May 23, 2024

Now that the flock has cleared, I can see Cal Price, the stage manager, stationed at a desk between the curtains.

From "Leah on the Offbeat" by Becky Albertalli