Introduction: Apps for Stage Management
Gbrenna – Apps for Stage Management. A lot of cool new apps come out every day, which is great for people who work in theater tech because they can always use more help with stage management. If your job is to manage players, make plans, and keep track of props, digital tools will help you stay on track and save time.
Apps for Stage Management:
1. The Barbizon Handbook
The lighting tech’s guide is Barbizon’s little flip book. It’s now an app, and the best part is that it’s free. With the Barbizon Electrician’s Handbook app, the Barbizon Lighting Company gives theater techs all the information they need, even when they’re not at their work site. Not sure which XLR socket to use for a certain power cable? How should you cover your players in soft blue light? What gel filters should you use? This page has all the information.
2. eSET
If you don’t know the words, it can be hard to get around in the world of stage tech. eSET is a dictionary of more than 2,000 production words that cover everything from sound effects to set dressing. The app makes it easy to learn the specific language and words used in the performing arts. It’s great for people who are new to the field or just want to learn more.
3. GenieLux
GenieLux is a small but strong app that lets users quickly and easily find the exact model of audio, video, lighting, or other production equipment they need, no matter where they are. The app looks through local vendors’ available items for rent or purchase and gives the user a list of results based on their present GPS location (or a location they choose).
4. Pocket Call Sheet
Pocket Call Sheet lets anyone make powerful, industry-standard digital call sheets for multiple shows, so there’s no need for production offices. With Pocket Call Sheet, you can plan your show even when you’re not at home. You can send cast and crew schedules and requirements through their phones and the internet. The app even lets the assistant directors and line producer sign off on call sheets from their own phones. You can share sheets in either PDF or HTML format, which cuts down on printing and copying that isn’t necessary.
5. Rehearsal 2
It’s easy for cast and team to keep track of their scripts for auditions and on set with Rehearsal 2. People who play parts on TV shows like “Heroes,” “Lost,” “CSI,” and more have used Rehearsal 2. Users can divide scripts into scenes, make reports, keep track of consistency, and even plan blocking, shots, and storyboards with this app. The app also has some cool extras for voice actors that let them try out for roles no matter where they are and send MP3s of their tryouts to people all over the world.
6. ShowTool SM
There are a lot of powerful and useful stage control tools in this app. It has a show timer, databases for marks and spikes, production checklists, prop lists, and other useful tools.
7. StageHand/Stagehand Pro
For stagehands, crew members, and others in stage tech, StageHand is an app that makes it easy to figure out DIP switches and light beams. New tools and reference materials were added in the most recent update. These include a color calculator, pin outs, a watts to amps conversion, and more.
8. Stage Write for iPad
There are a lot of cool features in Stage Write, which is one of the more expensive apps on this list. It has been used in a number of Broadway shows and national trips. The app makes it easy for performers to keep track of choreography, spacing, traffic patterns, and moves for cheerleading and marching band formations, as well as theatrical events and productions. The app also lets users make dynamic spacing charts and keep track of how all the parts of a show move, from choreography and staging to blocking and blocking.
9. Technical Theatre Assistant
By making cut lists and diagrams for set pieces, this app saves users time on stage carpentry jobs. There are also tools in the app that can help you with carpentry work.
10. Theater Blocking
Theater Blocking is an app that was made by a stage manager with performers in mind. It makes it easy for people to block their theater rehearsals or shows, even on their phones. The program lets you choose from different stage layouts and colors, and it also lets you move forward and backward between blockings.
Conclusion: Apps for Stage Management
In conclusion, leveraging stage management apps enhances efficiency and streamlines theater production processes significantly. Firstly, apps like Barbizon Handbook simplify lighting decisions, while eSET aids with stage tech terminology. Additionally, GenieLux helps locate production equipment conveniently, and Pocket Call Sheet facilitates seamless communication among cast and crew. Moreover, Rehearsal 2 optimizes script management and offers innovative features for actors. For timing and coordination, ShowTool SM provides essential tools, and StageHand Pro assists with technical calculations. Furthermore, Stage Write for iPad revolutionizes choreography and staging management, making it invaluable for complex productions. Likewise, Technical Theatre Assistant supports set carpentry tasks, and Theater Blocking simplifies rehearsal planning. Together, these apps transform traditional stage management, offering creative and practical solutions for modern theater challenges. By adopting these tools, theater professionals can save time, enhance collaboration, and focus on delivering exceptional performances.