I've acted in several plays, worked behind the scenes and directed student productions. I've watched a lot of theater, too. I've observed two schools of thought about stage management: actor-directed and traditional. Here's rationale for actor-directed minimalist theater. Stage management dichotomy: In traditional theater, directors visualize the production, actors create the characters and stagehands manage behind the scenes. There are costumers, dressers, make-up and hair stylists, properties handlers, set construction and deck crew. In actor-directed theatre, performers assemble their own props, costumes and even sets. They may have some assistance from non-performers, but mostly, it's actors working together to make shows happen. Theatre Stage Management: Why Minimalist, Actor-Directed Plays Work
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