Stage & Production Management

This module will introduce you to the principles and practices of stage management, as well as the working procedures of UK theatrical establishments. To be a successful stage manager you need to have a clear understanding of the theatrical and live event industry and the governance of that within a wider context. The role of stage manager involves being at the hub of a range of disciplines and roles. The stage management team are normally the first port of call for all those involved in creating and the running of a show. In order to communicate and manage this process in a professional manner you will need to demonstrate a good understanding of the functions and roles involved in the process of creating a show.

This module introduces students to the technical aspects of any production which are core to the stage manager. Through practical sessions this module teaches a comprehensive range of technical skills which are required in a live event environment and gives students the opportunity to put these into practice.

This module involves the production of a technical rider (specification) from a given brief and produce a tour itinerary. In doing so, you will develop and apply skills including communication skills, planning and scheduling skills and team-working skills. You will also gain an appreciation for the importance of production pre-planning and the rehearsal phase of the show.

This module takes you through the process of a production from conception to implementation/realisation. To support an event, you will create and collate a show pack containing all relevant documentation and information. You will then develop your concept and planning into a realised event including set-up and preparation, delivery, and post-event review. You will conduct production meetings with your teams to ensure your planning is robust and communicated effectively to both internal and external parties. You will develop an awareness of event infrastructure and the roles and responsibilities that go towards creating a successful show.

This module deals with the managerial aspects of the Stage Manager’s role. You will appraise a range of techniques to help you gain an understanding of management concepts in dealing with teams and individuals. Techniques explored will include motivation, Total Quality Management, pastoral care and conflict resolution. You will also study the wider performance environment to understand the management issues involved in larger scale productions. You will investigate advance technologies related to the live industry and how these challenge the stage manager. 

This module examines the more senior roles within the live model, specifically when looking at international touring. You will identify how these job roles relate to the Stage Manager and outline the career pathways available to you. You will consider the wider performance environment in relation to large scale and international shows including personnel and administrative considerations. 

This module is designed to enhance your academic research skills. You will consider different forms of primary research and the ways in which data can be collected and analysed. You will explore the discipline of academic writing and develop an awareness of secondary research sources and literature searching technique. Ethical considerations such as confidentiality, data protection and unfair means will be taken into account. 

This module allows students to further develop their critical awareness of event management. It will focus upon the infrastructure of events, the legal and financial aspects and key management operations.

This module allows students to further develop their critical awareness of event planning and technical production. It will focus upon creative production design and delivery through project management and evaluation, collaboration and communication skills, risk management, financial planning and regulatory frameworks.

This module offers you the opportunity to expand your knowledge of issues related to logistics and supply chain management in the Live Events Industry. You will develop and consolidate skills in coordinating and controlling activities involved in the management of events. You will also analyse the management of operations and aspects of supply chain management and evaluate how, given the international dynamics of the live events industry, operations can work in a coordinated manner to provide a successful event. You will develop an understanding of the wider issues of event management including legal and governmental issues, documentary requirements, the environmental impacts of events, and how risks can be managed. 

This module is designed to help you develop your prior and concurrent learning into work-related skills. It is further designed to help you develop your own professional skills in terms of time-management and working with others towards a pre-set goal. The module will utilise the learning gained in the other modules studied. You will apply your learning to a work related project that you will develop to the potential benefit of an existing live events organisation. 

This module allows you to develop your knowledge and perspective of the live events sector. You will investigate a variety of external factors at play, such as economic, political, technical and environmental factors. You will explore and evaluate current issues within these fields and analyse how they impact on the sector and on particular types of event. 

The Major Project module is a substantial piece of work that will give you the opportunity to demonstrate the extent of your achievement on the degree as a whole. The module will enable you to consolidate the skills and experience gained during the first two years of the course. You will agree a project proposal and a learning agreement with your supervisor. You may work individually or in teams. If you work in a team, the team members will have a common supervisor or supervising team. Your project will build on areas already explored in the other modules in your programme. The module tutor and guide will provide further advice regarding the project, including attendance, supervisory arrangements, assessment criteria and rules regarding teamwork.