Stage Manager Salary: What to Expect and How to Negotiate
If you’re considering a career as a stage manager, one of the first questions you might have is: what can I expect to earn? The answer is that stage manager salaries can vary widely depending on a number of factors, including the type of production you’re working on, the size of the company or venue, and your level of experience. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what you can expect to earn as a stage manager, as well as some tips for negotiating the best possible salary.
What is a Stage Manager?
Before we dive into salaries, let’s take a quick look at what a stage manager actually does. In short, a stage manager is responsible for ensuring that a theatrical production runs smoothly from start to finish. This can include everything from scheduling rehearsals and coordinating with actors and crew members to managing props and overseeing the technical aspects of the show.
While the specific duties of a stage manager can vary depending on the production, one thing is certain: this is a job that requires a high level of organization, communication, and attention to detail. If you’re someone who thrives under pressure and enjoys working behind the scenes to make things happen, a career as a stage manager might be right for you.
What Factors Affect Stage Manager Salaries?
As we mentioned earlier, there are a number of factors that can impact how much you can expect to earn as a stage manager. Here are a few of the key ones to keep in mind:
- Type of Production: The type of production you’re working on can have a big impact on your salary. For example, stage managers working on Broadway productions are likely to earn more than those working on smaller, regional productions.
- Size of Company or Venue: Similarly, the size of the company or venue you’re working for can also affect your salary. A stage manager working at a large, well-known theater will likely earn more than one working at a small, community theater.
- Experience: As with any job, your level of experience can also impact your salary. Stage managers with several years of experience under their belt are likely to earn more than those just starting out.
- Location: Finally, where you’re working can also affect your salary. Stage managers working in major cities like New York or Los Angeles are likely to earn more than those working in smaller towns or rural areas.
What is the Average Stage Manager Salary?
So, with all that in mind, what can you actually expect to earn as a stage manager? According to Salary.com, the median annual salary for a stage manager in the United States is $60,000. However, salaries can range from as low as $45,000 to as high as $85,000 or more.
It’s worth noting that these figures are for full-time stage managers working on a regular schedule. If you’re working on a freelance basis or only for the duration of a particular production, your salary may be different.
Tips for Negotiating Your Salary
Of course, just because the median stage manager salary is $60,000 doesn’t necessarily mean that’s what you’ll be offered. Here are a few tips for negotiating the best possible salary:
- Do Your Research: Before you even begin negotiating, it’s important to have a good understanding of what stage managers in your area with your level of experience are earning. Use resources like Salary.com or Glassdoor to get a sense of the market rate.
- Highlight Your Experience: If you have several years of experience as a stage manager, be sure to highlight this when negotiating your salary. This can help demonstrate your value to potential employers and justify a higher salary.
- Consider Other Benefits: Salary isn’t the only factor to consider when negotiating a job offer. Other benefits like health insurance, paid time off, or a retirement plan can also be important.
- Be Willing to Walk Away: Finally, don’t be afraid to walk away from a job offer if you feel like the salary isn’t fair. While it can be tempting to take any job that comes your way, it’s important to remember that you’re worth more than that.
Career and Education
If you’re interested in pursuing a career as a stage manager, there are a number of educational paths you could take. Some aspiring stage managers choose to pursue a degree in theater, while others might opt for a degree in business or project management. Ultimately, the most important thing is to gain experience working on productions and building a strong network of contacts in the industry.
Key Takeaways
- Stage manager salaries can vary widely depending on factors like the type of production, the size of the company or venue, and your level of experience.
- The median annual salary for a stage manager in the United States is $60,000.
- When negotiating your salary, be sure to do your research, highlight your experience, and consider other benefits like health insurance or paid time off.
- If you’re interested in pursuing a career as a stage manager, gaining experience and building a network of contacts is key.
- Consider taking the NYU x Billboard | Music Industry Essentials online course and certificate program to gain a deeper understanding of the music industry and build your skills as a stage manager.
