Crafting a CV that effectively showcases your diverse skill set and experience in managing live productions can be quite daunting for a stage manager. Our comprehensive guide will provide you with tailored strategies to highlight your industry-specific talents, ensuring that your application stands out to potential employers.
- Applying best practices from real-world examples to ensure your profile always meets recruiters' expectations;
- What to include in your work experience section, apart from your past roles and responsibilities?
- Why are both hard and soft skills important for your application?
- How do you need to format your CV to pass the Applicant Tracker Software (ATS) assessment?
If you're writing your CV for a niche stage manager role, make sure to get some inspiration from professionals:
How to ensure your profile stands out with your stage manager CV format
It's sort of a Catch 22. You want your stage manager CV to stand out amongst a pile of candidate profiles, yet you don't want it to be too over the top that it's unreadable. Where is the perfect balance between your CV format simple, while using it to shift the focus to what matters most. That is - your expertise. When creating your stage manager CV:- list your experience in the reverse chronological order - starting with your latest roles;
- include a header with your professional contact information and - optionally - your photograph;
- organise vital and relevant CV sections - e.g. your experience, skills, summary/ objective, education - closer to the top;
- use no more than two pages to illustrate your professional expertise;
- format your information using plenty of white space and standard (2.54 cm) margins, with colours to accent key information.
Once you've completed your information, export your stage manager CV in PDF, as this format is more likely to stay intact when read by the Applicant Tracker System or the ATS. A few words of advice about the ATS - or the software used to assess your profile:
- Generic fonts, e.g. Arial and Times New Roman, are ATS-compliant, yet many candidates stick with these safe choices. Ensure your CV stands out by using a more modern, and simple, fonts like Lato, Exo 2, Volkhov;
- All serif and sans-serif fonts are ATS-friendly. Avoid the likes of fancy decorative or script typography, as this may render your information to be illegible;
- Both single- and double-column formatted CVs could be assessed by the ATS;
- Integrating simple infographics, icons, and charts across your CV won't hurt your chances during the ATS assessment.
PRO TIP
Incorporate a touch of colour in headers or section breaks, but keep it professional and ensure it doesn’t detract from readability, especially in more conservative industries.
The top sections on a stage manager CV
- Personal Statement summarising skills and experience: It provides a quick overview of the candidate's qualifications and strengths specific to stage management.
- Production Experience listing shows and roles: This demonstrates the range and depth of previously managed productions.
- Technical Skills pertinent to stage management: Highlighting technical proficiencies showcases the practical abilities necessary for the role.
- Education and Training relevant to theatre arts: Recruiters look for formal qualifications or training that lends credibility.
- Professional References from theatre industry: It offers potential employers insights into the candidate's work ethic and reputation.
What recruiters value on your CV:
- Highlight your organisational skills by detailing shows you have managed and the specific logistical challenges you overcame, as stage management requires impeccable organisational abilities.
- Mention your proficiency in stage management software and communication tools, as these are crucial for coordinating all aspects of a production efficiently.
- Include any experience with budget management and scheduling, as stage managers often oversee financial aspects and the minute-by-minute running of a show.
- Emphasise examples of quick problem-solving and crisis management during live shows, which demonstrate your capability to handle the high-pressure environment of stage management.
- Detail your experience with script analysis and technical rehearsals, reflecting your understanding of the creative process and your role in facilitating the director's vision.
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Making a good first impression with your stage manager CV header
Your typical CV header consists of Your typical CV header consists of contact details and a headline. Make sure to list your professional phone number, email address, and a link to your professional portfolio (or, alternatively, your LinkedIn profile). When writing your CV headline , ensure it's:
- tailored to the job you're applying for;
- highlights your unique value as a professional;
- concise, yet matches relevant job ad keywords.
You can, for examples, list your current job title or a particular skill as part of your headline. Now, if you decide on including your photo in your CV header, ensure it's a professional one, rather than one from your graduation or night out. You may happen to have plenty more questions on how to make best the use of your CV headline. We'll help you with some real-world examples, below.
Examples of good CV headlines for stage manager:
- Deputy Stage Manager | Opera & Ballet Specialist | Prince2 Certified | 3 Years Experience
- Senior Stage Manager | Live Events Expert | H&S Compliance | BA(Hons) Theatre Production | 10+ Years
- Assistant Stage Manager | Contemporary Theatre Enthusiast | MA Stage Management | 2 Years Professional Practice
- Executive Stage Manager | Large-Scale Musicals | Budget Management | Equity Member | 15+ Years Leadership
- Lead Stage Manager | Classical Theatre & Festivals | BTEC Diploma | Strong IT Skills | 8 Years Experience
- Chief Stage Manager | Multi-Venue Operations | Staff Coordination Pro | First Aid Certified | 12 Years in Theatre
Your stage manager CV introduction: selecting between a summary and an objective
stage manager candidates often wonder how to start writing their resumes. More specifically, how exactly can they use their opening statements to build a connection with recruiters, showcase their relevant skills, and spotlight job alignment. A tricky situation, we know. When crafting you stage manager CV select between:
- A summary - to show an overview of your career so far, including your most significant achievements.
- An objective - to show a conscise overview of your career dreams and aspirations.
Find out more examples and ultimately, decide which type of opening statement will fit your profile in the next section of our guide:
CV summaries for a stage manager job:
- With over a decade of rigorous experience in professional theatre, I possess a comprehensive skillset, including adept cue calling, intricate stage design, and seamless performer coordination. My tenure includes managing a West End production, earning a prestigious stage management award for operational excellence.
- Seasoned stage manager with 15 years in dynamic live event production environments, I bring a well-honed ability to streamline cross-departmental communications and implement effective rehearsal schedules. Renowned for coordinating an internationally acclaimed music festival, showcasing my crisis management and exceptional organisational prowess.
- Transitioning from a successful 8-year career in broadcasting, my expertise in live control room operations and team leadership complements the demands of stage management. Spearheaded a live broadcast event with 100k+ viewers, underpinning my capacity to manage high-pressure situations and deliver flawless execution.
- As a former orchestral conductor with over 6 years of leading performances, I am poised to excel in stage management. My proficiency in score reading and ensemble coordination, combined with a proven track record for maintaining composure under tight deadlines, equips me with a unique perspective for theatrical production design.
- Keen to embark on a stage management career, my objective is to apply my strong organizational skills from 5 years in the hospitality management sector to ensure back-stage operations are executed with precision, with a commitment to fostering seamless collaborations and contributing to memorable production experiences.
- Seeking to leverage my passion for theatre and a BA in Drama, I am eager to develop a robust stage management skillset. I am driven by a dedication to creating enchanting stage environments, with a focus on achieving operational harmony and logistical excellence in every production I become a part of.
The best formula for your stage manager CV experience section
The CV experience section is the space where many candidates go wrong by merely listing their work history and duties. Don't do that. Instead, use the job description to better understand what matters most for the role and integrate these keywords across your CV. Thus, you should focus on:
- showcasing your accomplishments to hint that you're results-oriented;
- highlighting your skill set by integrating job keywords, technologies, and transferrable skills in your experience bullets;
- listing your roles in reverse chronological order, starting with the latest and most senior, to hint at how you have grown your career;
- featuring metrics, in the form of percentage, numbers, etc. to make your success more tangible.
When writing each experience bullet, start with a strong, actionable verb, then follow it up with a skill, accomplishment, or metric. Use these professional examples to perfect your CV experience section:
Best practices for your CV's work experience section
- Coordinated all backstage activities during a run of 50 performances of "Les Misérables," ensuring smooth scene transitions and accurate prop placement.
- Managed communication between the director, cast, and crew for the production of "Hamlet," resulting in a well-reviewed show with minimal technical errors.
- Facilitated daily rehearsal schedules, prop lists, and cue sheets as part of the pre-production process for "The Phantom of the Opera," enhancing overall organisational efficiency.
- Maintained the prompt book with meticulous notes on blocking, lighting, and sound cues for "West Side Story," which was crucial for the consistency of each performance.
- Implemented a new digital stage management system for "Wicked," reducing paperwork and improving the speed of communications.
- Supervised a team of assistant stage managers and crew members, providing clear guidance and leadership during the complex technical rehearsals for "Cats."
- Conducted regular safety checks and risk assessments to ensure compliance with health and safety regulations throughout the production of "Chicago."
- Led post-show debriefs to discuss any issues and improvements, fostering a culture of continuous improvement during the run of "A Midsummer Night's Dream."
- Negotiated with suppliers to source props and technical equipment within a restricted budget for "Oliver Twist," demonstrating strong financial management skills.
- Overseeing all stage-related operations for Broadway productions, ensuring strict adherence to timelines and production schedules.
- Collaborated with directors, designers, and choreographers to smoothly integrate technical and creative aspects, increasing production efficiency by 30%.
- Managed a team of 15 crew members, prioritizing safety and fostering a collaborative environment that contributed to the successful execution of over 200 performances.
- Facilitated daily rehearsals, managing schedules and coordinating with production departments to promote an organized and efficient rehearsal process.
- Implemented a digital cue tracking system that reduced cue-related errors by 25% during live performances.
- Spearheaded the stage crew training program, enhancing the technical skills of new recruits by focusing on modern stage technologies and best practices.
- Coordinated with technical directors in planning and execution of set designs, lighting, and sound arrangements, ensuring seamless transitions during live shows.
- Managed a successful tech week for 12 different productions, each achieving critical acclaim for precision and timing.
- Developed and maintained comprehensive prompt books, which became the backbone for all stage-related activities and coordinated communication between departments.
- Led the stage management team for 10 multi-cultural events, catering to diverse audiences and earning recognition for inclusivity and broad engagement.
- Orchestrated all backstage operations, contributing directly to the company's record of 100% on-time performances.
- Liaised with external vendors to secure high-quality equipment and materials, resulting in enhanced production values and audience experience.
- Prepared and refined production schedules, ensuring that all milestones were met accurately and well in advance of opening night.
- Managed a cross-functional team of sound, light, and set designers to create a coherent and visually stunning stage environment.
- Negotiated contracts with third-party service providers, cutting costs by 15% while maintaining production quality.
- Cultivated strong relationships with actors and musicians, aligning stage actions with directorial vision and ensuring top-notch performance delivery.
- Pioneered the use of digital rehearsal and performance scripts, streamlining changes and updates while reducing paper waste in the theatre.
- Spearheaded timely and efficient stage turnovers between back-to-back shows, maintaining a tight schedule that optimized venue usage.
- Performed rigorous script analysis to anticipate and plan for all cues, set changes, and prop requirements, contributing to the show's coherent storytelling.
- Coordinated with the costume department to ensure quick changes were seamless and maintained costume integrity throughout the performance run.
- Enhanced communication protocols between front-of-house and back-of-house staff, vastly improving coordination and guest satisfaction scores.
- Managed logistical aspects of tour productions, including transport and assembly of stage sets, props, and technical equipment across multiple venues.
- Designed and executed a comprehensive incident response plan, minimizing downtime during unexpected technical difficulties.
- Established and reinforced rigorous safety protocols, resulting in zero accidents throughout the tenure.
- Supervised stage preparations for large-scale outdoor events, overcoming challenges due to weather and environmental factors.
- Integrated innovative stage technologies to create immersive experiences for audiences, driving a 20% increase in ticket sales.
- Fostered a positive and supportive working environment that contributed to high crew morale and reduced staff turnover by 10%.
- Assisted in coordinating stage elements for a variety of small local theatre productions, gaining expertise in adaptive stage management techniques.
- Developed a keen eye for detail which ensured props and sets were accurate to the time period and themes of each production.
- Contributed to budget management by sourcing cost-effective materials while upholding production quality.
Writing your CV without professional experience for your first job or when switching industries
There comes a day, when applying for a job, you happen to have no relevant experience, whatsoever. Yet, you're keen on putting your name in the hat. What should you do? Candidates who part-time experience , internships, and volunteer work.
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PRO TIP
If applicable, briefly mention a situation where things didn’t go as planned and what you learned from it, demonstrating your ability to learn and adapt.
The CV skills' divide: between hard and soft skills
Of course, you may have read the job requirements plenty of times now, but it's key to note that there is a difference between technical and personal skills. Both are equally relevant to your job application. When writing about your skill set, ensure you've copy-pasted the precise skill from the job requirement. This would not only help you ensure you have the correct spelling, but also pass any Applicant Tracker System (ATS) assessments.
- Hard skills show your technological capabilities. Or whether you'll be a good technical fit to the organisation. Ensure you've spotlighted your hard skills in various sections of your CV (e.g. skills section, projects, experience) by including the technology and what you've attained;
- Soft skills pinpoint your personality and people or communication skills, hinting at if you'll easily accomodate into the team or organisation. Quantify your soft skills in your CV achievements, strengths, summary/objective, and experience sections. Always support your soft skills with how they've helped you grow as a professional.
Top skills for your stage manager CV:
Script Analysis
Cueing Techniques
Stagecraft
Lighting Design
Sound Management
Prop Management
Scheduling
Budgeting
Technical Direction
Production Management
Leadership
Communication
Teamwork
Problem Solving
Adaptability
Attention to Detail
Time Management
Conflict Resolution
Creative Thinking
Stress Management
PRO TIP
Order your skills based on the relevance to the role you're applying for, ensuring the most pertinent skills catch the employer's attention first.
Listing your university education and certificates on your stage manager CV
The best proof of your technical capabilities would be your education and certifications sections. Your education should list all of your relevant university degrees, followed up by their start and completion dates. Make sure to also include the name of the university/-ies you graduated from. If you happen to have less professional experience (or you deem it would be impressive and relevant to your application), spotlight in the education section:
- that you were awarded a "First" degree;
- industry-specific coursework and projects;
- extracurricular clubs, societies, and activities.
When selecting your certificates, first ask yourself how applicable they'd be to the role. Ater your initial assessment, write the certificate and institution name. Don't miss out on including the completion date. In the below panel, we've curated relevant examples of industry-leading certificates.
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If you have received professional endorsements or recommendations for certain skills, especially on platforms like LinkedIn, mention these to add credibility.
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Key takeaways
What matters most in your stage manager CV-writing process is for you to create a personalised application. One that matches the role and also showcases your unique qualities and talents.
- Use the format to supplement the actual content, to stand out, and to ensure your CV experience is easy to comprehend and follows a logic;
- Invest time in building a succinct CV top one third. One that includes a header (with your contact details and headline), a summary or an objective statement (select the one that best fits your experience), and - potentially - a dedicated skills section or achievements (to fit both hard skills and soft skills requirements);
- Prioritise your most relevant (and senior) experience closer to the top of your CV. Always ensure you're following the "power verb, skill, and achievement" format for your bullets;
- Integrate both your technical and communication background across different sections of your CV to meet the job requirements;
- List your relevant education and certificates to fill in gaps in your CV history and prove to recrutiers you have relevant technical know-how.
