I am proud to be AGMA’s Staging Staff Vice President, but I am even more proud to be a stage manager. Today is International Stage Management Day, and today is a reminder of the vital role we play in our industry and the power we hold when we stand together. Stage management is more than just calling cues and keeping things on track; it’s about being the backbone of productions, ensuring the safety, creativity, and integrity of every rehearsal and performance.
Being a leader in AGMA and a part of a union, in general, has reinforced the importance of solidarity and advocacy in our profession. It’s through collective strength that we are able to safeguard fair working conditions, protect our rights, and support each other in an industry that is so demanding of us. Whether it’s fighting for better pay, more reasonable hours, or securing a safer working environment, AGMA is a cornerstone of our community, and I stand proudly with everyone.
To my fellow stage managers – both in union and non-union houses – thank you for your tireless work, your passion, and for making sure to the best of your ability that every performance is a success. To my fellow AGMA members, we fight together for the best conditions for all of us, lock-step, through every negotiation. Let us continue to organize our workplaces to have better protections for everyone, on and off the stage. Together, we make sure that we are valued for all our incredible contributions to the performing arts!
In Solidarity,
Brian August, AGMA's Staging Staff Vice President
Please note: These photos represent only a small number of the talented stage management teams and staging staff professionals in our industry. Some teams are not complete in these images. We honor and appreciate all who work behind the scenes!