Theatre And Play Production Practice Test

During performances, the stage manager acts as the show's central coordinating force. The main duty is calling cues and turning the director’s vision into action on stage—getting lighting, sound, props, set changes, and actor entrances to happen at exactly the right moments. They work from the running order or prompt book, monitor timing, and communicate with cast and crew to keep everything in sync. They also oversee backstage safety and handle any issues that arise, serving as the primary link between the director, designers, and performers while the show is live. This combination of real-time cueing, inter-department coordination, and safety oversight is what keeps the performance running smoothly. Lighting plots are designed by the lighting designer, box office and audience management by the house/box office staff, and rehearsals are scheduled as part of pre-show planning—so none of those duties take precedence during the actual performance.