UC San Diego

The most significant and overarching goal of my graduate studies was to master the skill of managing people. While the art of stage management encompasses many disciplines, successful collaboration with fellow artists and craftspeople is the most challenging aspect. Throughout my time at UCSD, I have become aware of how I adjust my leadership style to fit the needs of each production. Every director, designer, and actor requires a nuanced variation of delivery, manner, and tone. A theme in Joe Turner's Come and Gone is the binding, or uniting, of people. In this production, I acted as a binding catalyst in artistic collaborations. Through careful observation, educated response, and thoughtful delivery, I was able to better aid the designers and director in reaching the production's collaborative goals. Throughout Joe Turner's Come and Gone, the director and I shared a succinct and jocular communication style. My rapport with the director allowed me the freedom to focus my energy on designers who required a more tailored approach. While my natural inclination tends toward direct problem-solving, I learned to lead the artists indirectly to solutions or actions. When creative relationships struggle, the stage manager must assess the situation and maneuver towards a unifying resolution. My thesis show was a fitting conclusion to my graduate studies. During this production, I anticipated contrasting creative methods between various parties, and I worked to unite any divergent communication styles. As a stage manager, I strive to bind my fellow artisans together in order to achieve a successful theatrical experience