The Ultimate Guide to a Stage Manager Salary: Earnings,...

[What Does a Stage Manager Do?](#what-they-do)
[Average Stage Manager Salary: A Deep Dive](#deep-dive)
[Key Factors That Influence a Stage Manager's Salary](#key-factors)
[Job Outlook and Career Growth for Stage Managers](#job-outlook)
[How to Become a Stage Manager: A Step-by-Step Guide](#how-to-get-started)
[Conclusion: Is a Stage Manager Career Right for You?](#conclusion)

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The house lights dim, a hush falls over the audience, and a single spotlight slices through the darkness. In that magical moment, a world of story is about to unfold. But who is the invisible force ensuring every light cue, every sound effect, every actor's entrance happens with breathtaking precision? That unsung hero is the stage manager. If you've ever felt the pull of the theatre but your talents lie in leadership, organization, and grace under pressure, then a career as a stage manager might be your calling. It's a path that demands immense dedication but offers the profound reward of being the central nervous system of any live production.

This career is not just about passion; it's a viable profession with a wide-ranging salary potential. A stage manager salary can start at a modest stipend in a small community theatre and climb to well over six figures for top-tier Broadway productions or large-scale corporate events. The national average often hovers in the range of $60,000 to $75,000 per year, but as this guide will reveal, that number is just the beginning of the story.

I'll never forget watching a regional production of a complex musical where a key set piece malfunctioned mid-scene. To my amazement, the actors seamlessly adapted their blocking, a different entrance was used, and the scene concluded without a hitch. The audience was none the wiser. I later learned from a friend in the cast that it was the calm, clear voice of the stage manager in their headsets that guided them through the crisis, turning potential disaster into a moment of flawless improvisation. That is the power and indispensability of a great stage manager.

This guide is designed to be your definitive resource for understanding the financial realities and career trajectory of a professional stage manager. We will dissect salary data from authoritative sources, explore the factors that dictate your earning potential, and lay out a clear roadmap for how to get started. Whether you're a student dreaming of Broadway or a professional looking to transition your skills, consider this your script for a successful career.

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What Does a Stage Manager Do?

While the director is the creative visionary and the producer is the financial backer, the stage manager (SM) is the organizational and operational backbone of a production. They are the chief practitioner, the central point of communication, and the individual ultimately responsible for the smooth execution of every performance. Their work can be broadly divided into three distinct phases: pre-production, rehearsals, and performances.

Pre-Production Phase: Long before the actors arrive for the first rehearsal, the stage manager is already at work. Their responsibilities include:

Creating the Prompt Book: This is the stage manager's bible. It's a master script containing all blocking notes, lighting cues, sound cues, set movements, actor entrances/exits, and any other technical or artistic detail necessary to run the show.
Scheduling and Communication: The SM creates detailed rehearsal schedules, production calendars, and contact sheets for the entire cast, crew, and creative team. They are the central hub for all communication.
Taping Out the Floor: The SM meticulously measures and tapes out the dimensions of the set onto the rehearsal room floor, giving actors a clear understanding of the physical space they will inhabit.
Prepping Materials: They prepare sign-in sheets, print scripts, and organize all necessary paperwork for the first day of rehearsal.

Rehearsal Phase: Once rehearsals begin, the stage manager's role shifts to managing the room and meticulously documenting the show's creation.

Running Rehearsals: They ensure rehearsals start and end on time, enforce breaks as mandated by union rules, and create a professional, efficient, and safe working environment.
Tracking Blocking and Staging: As the director works with the actors, the SM records every movement, position, and interaction in the prompt book using a personalized shorthand.
Setting Props and Scenery: They work with the Assistant Stage Managers (ASMs) to ensure all rehearsal props and set pieces are in the correct place for each scene.
Generating Daily Reports: At the end of each day, the SM compiles and distributes a detailed report to the entire production team (designers, department heads, producers). This report includes notes on everything from costume fittings and lighting questions to new prop requirements, ensuring everyone is on the same page.

Performance Phase: When the show moves from the rehearsal hall to the theatre, the stage manager takes full command. This is known as "tech," and once the show opens, the director's job is done, and the SM "owns" the show.

Calling the Show: During each performance, the stage manager follows along in the prompt book and cues every technical element. They will speak into a headset, calling "Light Cue 5... GO," "Sound Cue B... GO," or "Fly Rail, bring in the Traveler... GO" to the various technical operators. This requires immense focus and split-second timing.
Maintaining Artistic Integrity: The SM is responsible for ensuring that the show the audience sees on the 100th performance is just as crisp, tight, and true to the director's vision as it was on opening night. This involves giving notes to actors and crew to correct any deviations.
Managing the Backstage Area: They oversee the entire backstage operation, ensuring actors make their entrances on time, the crew performs scene changes safely and efficiently, and all safety protocols are followed.

### A "Day in the Life" of a Stage Manager (During Rehearsals)

9:00 AM: Arrive at the rehearsal hall. Unlock the space, turn on lights, and check emails for any urgent production notes.
9:15 AM: Review the day's schedule. Set up the rehearsal space, ensuring all necessary props and furniture are in place and the floor is swept.
9:45 AM: Actors and the creative team begin to arrive. The SM checks everyone in.
10:00 AM: Rehearsal officially begins. The SM calls the start time and reads any important announcements.
10:05 AM - 1:00 PM: The SM sits beside the director, meticulously taking blocking notes in the prompt book, timing scenes, and noting any questions or needs that arise. The ASMs are busy tracking props and preparing for the next scene.
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM: Lunch break. The SM uses this time to quickly type up the morning's notes, answer emails, and coordinate with other departments based on discoveries made during rehearsal.
2:00 PM - 5:50 PM: Afternoon rehearsal session. This might involve a run-through of an act or detailed work on a specific musical number. The SM continues to document everything.
5:50 PM: The SM gives the "ten-minute warning" before the end of the rehearsal day.
6:00 PM: Rehearsal ends. While actors depart, the SM's work continues.
6:00 PM - 7:30 PM: The SM and their team compile, proofread, and distribute the official daily rehearsal report to a list of over 50 people. They then tidy up the space, secure any valuables, and prepare the preliminary schedule for the next day. It’s a long day, defined by unwavering focus and constant communication.

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Average Stage Manager Salary: A Deep Dive

Quantifying a stage manager salary requires looking at the role through multiple lenses, as compensation varies dramatically across different sectors of the live entertainment industry. While passion for the art form is a prerequisite, understanding the financial landscape is crucial for building a sustainable career.

Let's begin with a broad overview. According to Salary.com, as of late 2023, the median annual salary for a Stage Manager in the United States is approximately $69,836. The typical salary range falls between $57,750 and $83,969. This range often represents experienced professionals working in established, mid-sized regional theatres or on off-Broadway productions.

Glassdoor reports a slightly lower national average, citing a typical salary of around $61,000 per year, based on user-submitted data. This figure likely includes a wider array of jobs, including those in smaller, non-union houses.

It's also useful to look at the data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). While the BLS does not have a specific category for "Stage Manager," they are grouped under the broader category of "Producers and Directors." For this group, the BLS reported a median annual wage of $82,530 in May 2023. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $39,890, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $201,880. This wide spectrum reflects the vast differences between a director of a small community play and a producer of a major motion picture, but it confirms that the upper echelons of the profession, which include top-tier stage managers, are very well-compensated.

### Stage Manager Salary by Experience Level

Like any profession, experience is a primary driver of income. The journey from a novice Production Assistant to a seasoned Broadway Production Stage Manager is long, and the salary reflects that progression.

Here is a typical salary trajectory based on data aggregated from sources like Payscale, Salary.com, and industry knowledge:

| :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- |

| Entry-Level | 0-2 Years | $30,000 - $45,000 (often hourly or stipend-based) | Production Assistant (PA), Non-Equity Stage Manager, Small Community Theatre, University Productions |

| Senior/Experienced | 9+ Years | $90,000 - $150,000+ | Production Stage Manager (AEA), Broadway Stage Manager, First National Tours, Large-Scale Corporate/Industrial Shows |

*Note: These figures are estimates and can be significantly influenced by the factors discussed in the next section.*

### Breakdown of Compensation Components

A stage manager's salary isn't always a simple annual figure. The compensation package can include several components, especially under union contracts.

Weekly Salary: This is the most common form of payment, especially in the theatre world where contracts are for the duration of a specific show. A stage manager on a Broadway show might earn a minimum of $3,500 - $4,500 per week, while one at a LORT (League of Resident Theatres) house might earn between $800 and $2,000 per week, depending on the theatre's budget tier.
Hourly Pay & Overtime: Many non-union and entry-level positions are paid hourly. For union members, contracts strictly define the number of work hours per day and week. Any work beyond those hours (e.g., during a long "tech" week) is subject to overtime pay, often at a rate of 1.5x or 2x the base rate.
Per Diem: For stage managers on tour, a "per diem" (per day) allowance is provided to cover the costs of meals and incidental expenses while on the road. This is a tax-free benefit and can add a significant amount to their take-home compensation.
Health & Pension Benefits: This is a major advantage of working under a union contract like Actors' Equity Association (AEA) or the American Guild of Musical Artists (AGMA). For every week a stage manager works under contract, the producer makes contributions to their health insurance and pension funds. This is a critical piece of long-term financial stability that is often absent in non-union work.
Bonuses & Profit Sharing: While rare in the non-profit theatre world, stage managers on long-running, highly successful commercial productions (like a hit Broadway show) may occasionally receive bonuses. In the corporate event world, freelancers who are incorporated may build profit margins into their day rates.
Housing and Travel: For any job that requires relocation, whether for a tour or a single show at a regional theatre, producers are typically required to provide housing and transportation, removing a major financial burden from the stage manager.

Understanding these components is key. A lower weekly salary at a union theatre with excellent health and pension benefits might be more valuable in the long run than a slightly higher weekly rate at a non-union gig with no benefits at all.

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Key Factors That Influence a Stage Manager's Salary

The wide salary ranges discussed above are not arbitrary. They are the result of a complex interplay of specific, identifiable factors. For an aspiring or working stage manager, understanding these variables is the key to strategically navigating your career path and maximizing your earning potential. This section provides a detailed breakdown of the primary drivers of a stage manager salary.

### Factor 1: Level of Education and Training

While there is no strict educational requirement to become a stage manager—some of the best in the business learned their craft through apprenticeship—formal education can provide a significant advantage, particularly early in one's career.

Bachelor's Degrees (B.A. vs. B.F.A.): A Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Theatre provides a broad liberal arts education with a focus on theatre history, theory, and practice. A Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) in Stage Management is a much more intensive, conservatory-style program focused exclusively on practical training. Graduates of top B.F.A. programs (from schools like Carnegie Mellon University, University of North Carolina School of the Arts, or CalArts) often have a direct pipeline to professional internships and jobs due to the programs' strong industry connections and alumni networks. This can lead to higher starting salaries and faster career progression.
Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.): An M.F.A. is the terminal degree in the field and is designed for those seeking to work at the highest levels of the profession or to teach at the university level. Esteemed M.F.A. programs, such as those at the Yale School of Drama or University of California San Diego, are incredibly competitive. Graduates from these programs are highly sought after by major regional theatres and Broadway producers, and they can often command higher salaries from the outset. An M.F.A. can signal a level of mastery and dedication that fast-tracks a career.
Certifications and Workshops: Unlike in fields like IT, formal certifications are less common in stage management. However, related certifications can add value. First Aid/CPR and OSHA safety certifications, for example, are highly attractive to employers. Attending professional development workshops through organizations like the United States Institute for Theatre Technology (USITT) or the Stage Managers' Association (SMA) demonstrates a commitment to continued learning and can be a valuable networking opportunity.

Impact on Salary: A B.F.A. or M.F.A. from a top-tier school doesn't guarantee a higher salary, but it significantly improves the odds. It provides a foundational skill set, a professional network, and a credential that can open doors that might otherwise remain closed, leading to higher-paying first jobs and a steeper upward trajectory.

### Factor 2: Years of Experience and Union Status

Experience is arguably the single most important factor in determining a stage manager's salary. The industry operates on a clear hierarchy, and compensation rises in lockstep with demonstrated ability and a proven track record.

0-2 Years (Entry-Level): At this stage, individuals typically work as Production Assistants (PAs), interns, or non-union SMs for small, low-budget productions. Pay is often a small stipend or an hourly wage, translating to an annual income of $30,000 to $45,000, if that. The real payment is the experience: building a resume, making connections, and creating a prompt book that serves as a portfolio.
3-8 Years (Mid-Career): This is the crucial period where a stage manager gains eligibility to join Actors' Equity Association (AEA), the union for stage actors and stage managers. Joining the union is a career-defining step. As an Equity Stage Manager (or Assistant Stage Manager), you gain access to jobs with mandated minimum salaries, health benefits, and pension contributions. At this level, an SM might work on Off-Broadway shows or at LORT (League of Resident Theatres) venues. LORT theatres are categorized by budget size (from D to A), and salaries are scaled accordingly. An SM at a LORT C theatre might earn a minimum of $900-$1,200/week, while one at a LORT A theatre could earn $1,500-$2,000+/week. This pushes the annual salary into the $50,000 to $85,000 range.
9+ Years (Senior/Veteran): Seasoned stage managers with a decade or more of experience work on the most complex and high-profile productions. This includes Broadway, national tours of blockbuster musicals, and major opera companies. According to the AEA Production Contract (which governs Broadway), the minimum weekly salary for a Production Stage Manager (PSM) in mid-2023 was over $4,100, and for an Assistant Stage Manager (ASM), it was over $3,000. On a long-running hit show, these SMs can easily earn $150,000 to over $200,000 annually. These roles are the pinnacle of the theatrical career path.

### Factor 3: Geographic Location

Where you work has a massive impact on your potential salary, both due to cost of living and the concentration of high-paying jobs.

Top-Tier Markets (Highest Pay):
New York, NY: The undisputed center of the American theatre world. Home to Broadway and a thriving Off-Broadway scene, NYC offers the highest potential salaries. However, it also has an extremely high cost of living and intense competition. A Broadway PSM salary can exceed $200,000.
Los Angeles, CA & Las Vegas, NV: While known for film and large-scale spectacle shows respectively, both cities have robust theatre and live event scenes. Vegas, in particular, offers high-paying, long-running resident shows (like those by Cirque du Soleil) that require elite stage managers.
Chicago, IL: Chicago boasts a world-class theatre scene with numerous Equity houses like the Steppenwolf and Goodman Theatre, offering competitive LORT salaries.

Strong Regional Markets (Competitive Pay):
Cities like Washington D.C., Seattle, Minneapolis, San Francisco, and Boston are home to multiple LORT theatres and vibrant arts communities. Salaries here are strong, often in the $60,000 to $100,000 range for experienced SMs, providing a good balance of professional opportunity and quality of life. For instance, Salary.com notes that a stage manager in Boston, MA, can expect to earn about 8% more than the national average.

Developing and Lower-Paying Markets:
Smaller cities and rural areas have fewer professional opportunities. The work available is often non-union, part-time, or with community theatres where pay is a small stipend per production rather than a weekly salary. While these are excellent places to gain initial experience, they do not support a long-term career at a high salary level.

### Factor 4: Company Type and Industry Sector

The type of organization or event you manage is a primary determinant of your pay scale.

Commercial Theatre (Broadway & Touring): This is the most lucrative sector. Productions are for-profit, and successful shows generate enormous revenue. Stage managers on Broadway, Off-Broadway commercial transfers, and First National Tours command the highest salaries in theatre, as dictated by the stringent AEA Production Contract.
Non-Profit Regional Theatre (LORT): These are the backbone of American theatre. While their salaries are lower than Broadway, they offer stable, respected work. The LORT agreement with AEA sets minimum salaries based on the theatre's box office receipts, ensuring fair, tiered compensation.
Corporate Events and Industrials: This is a rapidly growing and highly lucrative field for stage managers. Large corporations hire SMs to run product launches, national sales meetings, and major trade show presentations. The skills are directly transferable, but the budgets are vastly larger. A freelance corporate stage manager can command a day rate of $750 to $1,500 or more. An experienced SM who works steadily in this sector can easily earn well into the six figures, often surpassing their theatrical counterparts.
Opera and Dance: These disciplines require a specialized skill set, most notably the ability to read a musical score. Stage managers for major opera and ballet companies work under the AGMA (American Guild of Musical Artists) contract, which has its own set of high salary standards, often comparable to top-tier LORT theatres.
Cruise Ships and Theme Parks: These offer unique opportunities for steady, long-term employment. While the weekly pay might be slightly lower than a tour, contracts often include room and board, which significantly increases the effective salary.

### Factor 5: In-Demand Skills and Specializations

Beyond the core competencies of organization and communication, certain specialized skills can make a stage manager more marketable and lead to higher pay.

Musical Score Reading: For musicals and especially opera, the ability to read a full orchestral score and cue from the music is a non-negotiable, high-value skill. Stage managers who can do this are in a specialized and smaller talent pool.
Technical Proficiency: Deep knowledge of modern theatre technology is a major asset. Expertise with show control software like QLab, automation systems, and digital video integration can make an SM invaluable, particularly on tech-heavy productions.
New Work Development: Experience in shepherding a brand-new play or musical from a workshop to its world premiere is a highly respected specialization. It requires a unique combination of patience, diplomacy, and organizational skill.
Large-Scale Management: The ability to manage huge casts, complex schedules, and multiple ASM teams (as seen on shows like *The Lion King* or in large opera productions) is a skill that directly correlates with the highest-paying jobs in the industry.

By understanding how these five factors intersect, a stage manager can make strategic choices about their training, location, and career focus to build a professionally and financially rewarding life in the theatre and beyond.

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Job Outlook and Career Growth

Navigating a career in stage management requires not only mastering the craft but also understanding the broader industry landscape. The job outlook, emerging trends, and pathways for advancement are critical considerations for anyone planning a long-term future in this demanding field.

### Job Growth and Industry Outlook

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects employment for "Producers and Directors," the category that includes stage managers, to grow by 4 percent from 2022 to 2032. This is about as fast as the average for all occupations. The BLS anticipates about 12,100 openings for producers and directors each year, on average, over the decade. Many of these openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

However, these statistics only tell part of the story. The world of live performance is dynamic and subject to unique pressures and opportunities.

Post-Pandemic Rebound: The live entertainment industry faced an unprecedented shutdown during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the recovery has been robust, with audiences demonstrating a strong, pent-up demand for in-person theatrical experiences. This has led to a flurry of new productions and the reopening of tours, creating a healthy demand for skilled stage managers.
Competition Remains High: Despite the steady demand, the field of stage management is exceptionally competitive. The allure of working in the arts attracts many talented and passionate individuals. The most desirable positions—on Broadway, at major regional theatres, and in the corporate event space—receive a very high volume of applicants. Success requires not only skill but also persistence, a strong professional network, and an impeccable reputation.
Economic Sensitivity: The health of the live entertainment industry is closely tied to the overall economy. During

The Ultimate Guide to a Stage Manager Salary: Earnings, Outlook, and How to Launch Your Career

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

What Does a Stage Manager Do?

Average Stage Manager Salary: A Deep Dive

Key Factors That Influence a Stage Manager's Salary

Job Outlook and Career Growth