Tools for stage managers and show callers

Holding the show together

On a live event, the stage manager is the point where everything meets: the running order, the talent, the crew, the client and the clock. You're calling cues, keeping speakers to time, managing walk-ups and changeovers, and adapting when the CEO runs ten minutes over.

Doing that well depends on two things: good tools for timing and communication, and knowing the space. Where's the stage entrance? How do presenters get from the green room to the lectern? Where are the confidence monitors? What's the route for a set change?

Timing, cueing and comms tools

Our free directory includes tools stage managers use: countdown and presenter timers, run-of-show and cue management, crew communication and show-running software. Each tool has a short write-up so you can compare options quickly. It's free to browse with no account, and we add tools regularly. If there's one you rely on that isn't listed, suggest it using the homepage form.

Know the space before the call

For participating venues, BES gathers floor plans, capacities, screen locations and specs, rigging, power and access, including load-in routes and practical notes. That gives stage management a clear picture of the room before the first rehearsal.

Venues share packs through a secure link created for a specific request, with an expiry date. See the example venue pack; the venue is fictional, and real coverage is growing as founding venues join.

How stage managers use BES

• Find a timer or cueing tool that suits the show and the budget.
• Check the venue's floor plan and access before writing the running order.
• Know where screens and confidence monitors are before briefing talent.
• Pass the venue's link to your crew so everyone works from the same facts.

Rehearsals and changeovers

Rehearsal time is usually short, so anything you can settle beforehand helps: changeover routes for set pieces, where talent waits before walk-ups, how long it takes to get from the green room to the stage, and where crew can hold equipment out of sight. The venue's floor plan and access notes make that planning easier, and sharing the venue's link with the crew means everyone arrives knowing the layout.

Note the answers in your show file as you go, so the next show in the same room starts from a better place.