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- Arts & Entertainment
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- International
- Date change rule:
- Every October 10
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International Stage Management Day recognizes the crucial work of stage managers every October 10. These dedicated professionals ensure seamless productions, from theater to concerts, coordinating every detail behind the scenes. Take a moment to appreciate their meticulous planning and quick problem-solving, and consider supporting local arts organizations.
Want to sponsor International Stage Management Day? Learn how
Expected International Stage Management Day Deals
While International Stage Management Day isn’t typically marked by commercial deals, it’s a prime opportunity for industry organizations and suppliers to show appreciation. Look for special discounts on stagecraft equipment from companies like Rose Brand and Production Advantage, or professional development workshops offered by associations such as the Stage Managers’ Association (SMA). Theater companies might host appreciation events for their technical crews. We will update this page with confirmed live programs as October 10 approaches.
Platform Guide for International Stage Management Day
Tag National Today (linkedin.com/company/nationaltoday) and use #StageManagementDay. Share stories of impactful stage managers or highlight their critical role in your industry.
X/Twitter
Mention @NatlToday and use #StageManagementDay. Post behind-the-scenes glimpses or shout-outs to your favorite stage managers.
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #StageManagementDay. Share photos or short videos celebrating the precision and dedication of stage managers.
International Stage Management Day Hero
Harriet "Hattie" Bessent
History of International Stage Management Day
How thrilling and exciting is it to be at the theatre watching actors sing, dance, and perform on stage with various props and equipment? You have stage managers and stage management to thank for that. What you sit and watch for a couple of minutes takes a lot of dedication, planning, prioritizing, and management to put together.
Stage management was a fairly new concept in the 1300s and only emerged as a distinct role in theatre in the 1600s. Stage management facilitates the organization and coordination of an event or theatrical production. Stage managers juggle many balls during all stages (excuse the pun) of production. They’re planners, organizers, multi-taskers, and level-headed individuals who understand the importance of diffusing a stage crisis and maintaining a cool head.
To offer maximum support on a production set, a stage manager must have a general understanding of all aspects of production and offer organizational support to keep the wheels of the stage rotating. A stage manager doesn’t just manage the physical stage, he/she coordinates and supports the different teams involved in the day-to-day running of theatre production, from rehearsals right through to performances and then all post-show tasks.
Some duties of a stage manager include creating and setting up rehearsal schedules; managing furniture and props; arranging costume fittings; and liaising with theater departments, producers, actors, and technical crew.
International Stage Management Day has been observed annually since 2013 to appreciate the efforts of the stage management crews and to bring awareness to their importance in theatre production.
International Stage Management Day timeline
In the Renaissance era, playwrights and actors take up the roles of modern-day stage managers.
Stage management roles during Shakespeare’s time are left to young apprentices learning the trade.
In Europe, the term ‘stage manager’ is first used.
A glorious day set aside to celebrate stage management crews.
How Businesses Can Celebrate International Stage Management Day
Local theaters, production companies, and event venues can celebrate International Stage Management Day by publicly recognizing their stage managers through social media shout-outs and dedicated features. Consider offering behind-the-scenes tours or Q&A sessions with stage managers to educate the public on their vital roles. Suppliers of theatrical equipment can run special promotions or host workshops to support stage managers’ professional development.
International Stage Management Day FAQs
When is International Stage Management Day?
International Stage Management Day 2026 falls on Saturday, October 10. This annual observance honors the essential work of stage managers across all live performance and event sectors.
How many stage managers are there?
While exact global numbers are hard to pinpoint, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported approximately 75,000 producers and directors, a category that often includes stage managers, as of 2022. Thousands more work internationally in theater, film, and live events.
What is the average salary of a stage manager?
Salaries for stage managers vary widely based on experience, location, and the type of production. As of 2024, entry-level positions might start around $35,000-$45,000, while experienced Broadway or touring stage managers can earn significantly more, often exceeding $100,000 annually.
What does a stage manager do?
A stage manager is the backbone of any production, responsible for coordinating all technical and artistic elements from rehearsals through performances. They manage schedules, call cues for lighting and sound, oversee props and costumes, and ensure the smooth execution of every show.
How to Observe International Stage Management Day
Appreciate a stage manager
Stage managers do a whole lot to keep a theatrical production running smoothly. If you have a friend who works behind the scenes, send him or her a simple gift basket or a kind word of appreciation.
Learn about a stage manager’s role
Visit your favorite theatre and ask to shadow a stage manager for a couple of hours. You may be delightfully surprised at how much you could learn about stage management in just a few hours.
Show your support online
There are many ways to support the wonderful jobs that stage managers do. You can donate your time, resources, or even sweet treats to a theatrical production unit.
5 Interesting Facts About A Stage Manager's Role
Mediator-in-chief
A stage manager facilitates interactions between all creative and technical departments.
Step-by-step guide
Stage managers compile notes for all parts of the onstage production.
First one in, last one out
Stage managers supervise the installation and removal of the set, sound, and lighting equipment.
Props manager
A stage manager is responsible for maintaining the props, furniture, and set during the production.
Risk assessment officer
Stage managers are responsible for maintaining the safety of the company.
Why International Stage Management Day is Important
There would be no theatre without stage managers
Can you imagine how chaotic a production would be without a stage manager? We guess no one else wants to see that happen.
We can celebrate the people who do so much for theatre
International Stage Management Day allows us to celebrate the people who do so much for theatre. It is a special day to thank them for their hard work and bring awareness to the importance of their job roles.
It reminds us to appreciate the theatre
It's easy to get lost in a movie, but an immersive theatre is an art form that many still enjoy and appreciate.
International Stage Management Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | October 10 | Saturday |
| 2027 | October 10 | Sunday |
| 2028 | October 10 | Tuesday |
| 2029 | October 10 | Wednesday |
| 2030 | October 10 | Thursday |
Social Media Tips for International Stage Management Day
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