ABSTRACT
A large aspect of stage management is the personal interaction between stage manager and all others involved in the process. Beyond being personal secretary to the whole production team, the stage manager also steps into the role of psychologist, mediator, friend, and parent. Attention to detail is also part of the psychology of stage managing: being aware of the subtle shifts and changes of the company will allow one to gauge tempers, address needs before they become problematic, and keep the company running happily. A stage manager is one of the few individuals with whom all members of the company interact and, as such, becomes a confidant, a coach, a peacekeeper, and a friend. The chapter describes the qualities of a good stage manager. They are organization, attention to detail, compassion, confidence, poise, adaptability, neutrality, assertiveness, diplomacy, discretion, sense of humor, and work and personal satisfaction.
