Stage Manager Interview | STAMP Theatre

The following is an interview by Kerry Lynch with Nicole Blackman, a New Zealand Stage Manger for the production of The Importance of Being Earnest in March 2010.

“What are the key roles of being a Stage Manger (SM)?

My main role is to facilitate. The Stage Manager is the central person for the whole production. All departments from the actors, designers, administration and publicity go through the SM, so a key responsibility is communication. I have to anticipate the needs of the rehearsal room as well as keeping track of all the information that comes out of rehearsals and distributing it to the appropriate departments within the company. I am also responsible for ensuring the safety and well being of the cast.

What preparation and tasks did you need to complete prior to the start of rehearsals for Earnest?

I did a ‘who/what/where’ list. I went through the script and created a spreadsheet with every page number and notated which character (with what costume and prop) is present on every single page. This is very useful to get the script into my head, and it is great in rehearsals when the director says go to page 60 because I know exactly what prop is required for each character.
I drew up a rehearsal schedule and a spreadsheet with the contact names and details of the forty plus people involved in this production.
I also made sure that all creative’s (designers) and performers had scripts.
I had to mark up the rehearsal room from the set plans and obtain rehearsal props and setup the tea and coffee.”

This is a very interesting interview and I feel I can take a lot from it and apply it to my own role of Stage Manager for The Trial. What I found particularly interesting was Blackman’s emphasis on the importance of communication. From working with STAMP Theatre for a week I can already really appreciate why good communication between all company members is important. Without it confusion arises and can stop other people from being able to complete their own roles successfully. I was also very impressed with the organisation skills Blackman presented, especially before rehearsals began. Her idea of creating a spreadsheet with the contact details of all the company members is something I have done myself. This means if any cast member does not turn up for rehearsal without forewarning the director I have the necessary details to get in contact with them. Using spread sheets and tables is also helpful not only for the Stage Managers organisation but also for the company as a whole. As Blackman did I too drew up a rehearsal schedule and then I forwarded it to the company in advance to make everyone aware as soon as possible to when the rehearsals would be.

I have found this interview very thought provoking. It has underlined my opinion of the importance of communication and organisation within a company, which are skills I will continue to use throughout this production.

Thanks for reading,

Larissa

Xxx

Work Cited

Lynch, Kerry (2010) ‘Kerry Lynch ATC Blog. Stage Manger Interview’ New Zealand Journal of Research in Performing Arts & Education: Nga Mahi a Rehia; p.p 4-4

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Leonardo March 8, 2025 at 1:13 pm

Hydroquinone Cream

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Safety Information

Hydroquinone cream is generally considered safe when used as directed.
However:

Avoid applying to broken or irritated skin

Do not use near the eyes or mucous membranes

Use sparingly and only for the recommended duration

Consult a doctor before using it on children

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Hydroquinone cream may offer several benefits:

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Side Effects

Common side effects include:

Brown discoloration of the skin (temporary)

Redness or irritation at the application site

Dryness or flakiness of the skin

Mild itching or tingling

How to Use

Apply hydroquinone cream as directed:

Wash the affected area with water before applying

Apply a thin layer of the cream

Use consistently, but avoid overuse

Is Hydroquinone Safe? What You Need to Know, According to Derms

Hydroquinone is generally considered safe for most people when used as directed, but like any skincare product, it can cause side effects in some individuals.
dermatologists recommend patch testing before applying
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Hydroquinone is a skin lightening agent commonly used to treat conditions like sunspots,
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Is Hydroquinone Safe?

While hydroquinone is generally safe for most people, it’s important to follow usage guidelines.

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Side Effects of Hydroquinone

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How to Use It

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Must Watch

Beware of overuse: hydroquinone is not a cure-all and should
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