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Roles/ Skills of a DSM

A Deputy Stage Manger (DSM) has a number roles and skills that they have to use to do their job. 

During the rehearsal period of a show the DSMs main role is to document everything that occurs on stage, from were an actor stands to where a table is set. This is so that there is an accurate record of the show so that during the rehearsals the actors can perform as close to what the actual play will be on opening night. As well as recording everything about the show during the rehearsals it is also the DSMs job prepare the working space so that it is safe for the actors to work in. This can be by doing the following; moving cables that may be in the space that could become a trip hazard for the actors, ensuring any props that are required in the rehearsals are in or around the space so the actors have easy access and can get to know how to use the prop and marking out the space,so that the actors know the size of the space they are working in so that when directors are blocking the show they will know exactly were to place all of the actors so there is no confusion when it come to the tech. The DSM should also draw up a schedule which should be given to each department with times when spaces are free for teching or rehearsal. Finally it is also the DSMs job to support directors, actors, techs or whoever is running a show during rehearsal. This could be writing notes that they may have said or running errands for them and even sitting in on casting.

During tech week, which is were a tech run is done, it is the DSMs job to run the tech and take note of any lighting, sound, AV or scene setting cue so that during the show the DSM can cue the technicians on when to go with a certain cue. These should be noted down on cue sheet that has a layout of the space drawn on it, a column for cues and a column for any notes given. 

After rehearsals are complete the show will go out. During a performance it is the DSMs job to give any cues to technicians, this can either be done over cans or by a cue light. These cues will be read out from the DSMs que sheet. It is also the DSMs job to give actors prompts from side of stage (were they will be sat) if any actors forget lines. Before the show and during the interval it is also the DSMs job to give actors calls to the stage. These should be a 30 minute call, a 15 minute call, a 5 minute call and a beginners call. This is done to ensure that all actors and any technicians that need to be set back stage are ready before the show goes out. The DSM will also communicate with the Front of House staff to gain clearance so that they know when to cue the beginning of the show. When the show is over the DSM should put up a show report which should contain notes on how the show went as well as the running time of each half, the interval and the total running time.