Rehearsal Space & Ground Plan
Why should the stage manager always arrive early and familiarize themselves with the rehearsal space before the first rehearsal?
So they can check things like restroom access, furniture, lighting, entrances, and set-up logistics—ensuring the space is ready and that no last-minute surprises disrupt the first day.
Name two items typically included in the actors’ information packet.
A cast list and a contact sheet (also include rehearsal schedules, required forms, basic information sheet or A wallet phone card).
What is the first and most basic script a stage manager prepares before rehearsals begin?
A rehearsal script with space for blocking notes and cues.
Why is a traditional refreshment like coffee, tea, and bagels or rolls offering at the first rehearsal important?
to help people feel secure and cared for at a stressful time
What’s the purpose of laying out the ground plan on the rehearsal room floor?
To help replicate the stage dimensions for accurate blocking and movement during rehearsal.
What’s the purpose of giving actors a folder on the first day of rehearsal?
To help them feel welcomed, stay organized, and have all the essential info like schedules, forms, and contact details in one place.
When a script is being edited during rehearsal, what should be done to help everyone work from the same updated version?
Reenter the script into a computer with all the changes, number and date new pages, and distribute updated copies.
On a professional production, who are the three people often need to conduct business at the first rehearsal?
The Actors’ Equity Association Representative, The producer/manager, The Press Representative
What measuring tool does a stage manager use to convert the ground plan’s scale into real-world distances when taping the floor?
A triangular scale rule
what specific item in the actor’s folder serve the purpose of detailing each actor and the character he or she is playing? Besides this, what other purpose can this item serve?
The cast list. It helps the costume people with fitting info, the press office for bios and headshots, and stage management for sign-in and check-in.
What kind of binder does the author recommend for holding scripts, and what makes it convenient for use?
a three-ring binder made by Acco International, because it allows easy page insertion and removal
what is one way the stage manager can minimize the disruption caused by the mandatory Equity meeting?
scheduling other meetings simultaneously or having the meeting after lunch
If the set dimensions are 30x50 feet, what size should the taped floor plan be, according to the chapter’s suggestion?
At least 10 feet larger in each direction (i.e., 40x60 feet).
What privacy-related step might a stage manager take when preparing the contact sheet, especially regarding stars, directors, and producers?
The stage manager may create two versions of the contact sheet—one for general company use and a more limited version for select personnel—since stars, directors, and producers often prefer only an office or agent’s number to be listed.
Name three types of people (other than actors) who may need a copy or updated pages of the script during rehearsal.
Designers, producer, publicity department
What is one helpful thing the stage manager can ask to confirm when calling to notify cast members about the first rehearsal?
asking them to confirm receipt of the packet and whether they’re attending the rehearsal
what is a clever tool a stage manager can use to speed up taping out complex ground plans accurately? （Hint: an advice taught by Frank Hartenstein)
A sheet of clear acetate with a half-inch grid overlayed on the ground plan.
What five major sections are typically included in a full contact sheet for a production, and what kind of personnel or information is listed in each?
Producer/Management – producer, and management personnel
Creative Staff – director, designers, writers, choreographers
Production Staff – stage managers, crew, assistants, interns, volunteers
Suppliers – unions, rental shops, cleaning companies, trucking companies
House Staff - house manager, ushers, box office, doormen
What is the difference between the rehearsal script and the prompt script by the end of the rehearsal process?
The rehearsal script is used for developing blocking and notes; the prompt script becomes the finalized show-calling version used in performance, including cues or technical description, exits/entrances, and finalized blocking.
What does the stage manager need to plan for if a portion of the actual set or a full model is being brought to the first rehearsal?
coordinating delivery, ensuring there's enough space in the rehearsal room, and possibly arranging to disassemble and reassemble it for display