UC Irvine

Numerous plays and musical in Western Drama utilize the character of the stage manager. Authors rely on the stage manager as a character to solve problems that would otherwise remain unresolved. The characterization of the stage manager within theatrical literature serves as a lens to examine how stage managers are viewed in the industry. The portrayal of the stage manager character transcends the page and bleeds over into rehearsal rooms.

Using a cross sectional script analysis of plays and musicals, my research seeks to illuminate how the stage manager character reflects the perception of the stage manager as a person. Many plays use the stage manager character, spanning over 50 years, providing the opportunity to analyze how the role of the stage manager has changed through a concrete and textual medium.

My research draws upon the connections between literature, history and theatrical perception to analyze the function and form of stage managers. Stage managers often fulfill the role of facilitator or supporter and their artistry is neglected or overlooked. Conducting a script analysis of a wide range of plays that feature a stage manager character creates a diverse pool of drama to draw upon.