AD/SM Production Contract, DSA HANN ALL School Musical 1
Production Contract Asst. Director/Rehearsal Stage Manager
We are setting forth to not only produce a play, but also learn about each other, our
community and to encourage open dialogue about what makes us different and how to learn to
be tolerant. In this ensemble it is imperative that all actors are committed and responsible,
hence this contract. This is what we expect from all the actors and crew involved in the show.
Being a leader in a process like this means you have the respect of your peers and can handle
advising and managing your peers. I understand that it is an honor to be a part of this
production. That it is a privilege, not a right to be cast.
Please read the following carefully and sign at the bottom.
KEEP THIS CONTRACT AS PAGE ONE IN YOUR PRODUCTION BOOK. REFER to it throughout the
process and make sure I am upholding my responsibilities.
1. I will attend ALL rehearsals and performances. If I miss final dress rehearsals, teasers, or a
performance, I may be replaced from within the cast. I will accept consequences for my actions
that the Directors feel are necessary. I understand that there is an entire ensemble of people
depending on me and I will make smart choices during the production process.
2. I will create a production book before the first rehearsal including my script, notebook, and a
pencil and bring it to EVERY rehearsal (even final dress). I will take notes in my rehearsal
notebook about all actors’ blocking and write down the comments the director gives "to
improve" during notes time, review those notes before the next rehearsal and make the
changes. All light, sound, shift cues will need to be written in the production book. Stage
managers need to obtain a set plan from the design department and draw the movement
patterns on the back of the pages. Stage managers must also tape/mark the set configuration to
the rehearsal floor with permission from the Stagecraft teachers by first blocking rehearsal. SM
needs to attend and LEAD all production meetings with the tech department SM.
3. AD will be responsible for checking out scripts to the actors in the first week of rehearsal and
collect script deposits (if necessary). They will record the numbers and names during check out.
The AD will give a copy of all lists to the director and the checks in alphabetical order in an
envelope. The AD needs to remind actors to only write in pencil and erase any markings made
when show is over, if scripts are rented. At final dress, AD will remind cast to bring their scripts
back and check them in, they will return the $50 checks to those who turn them in.
4. At the beginning of each rehearsal, the SM is in charge of creating a positive acting space and
the AD takes attendance. Look over your script before each rehearsal, make sure rehearsal
props and costumes are there for actors and that the space is prepared and swept for rehearsal.
When actors bring in rehearsal props it is the AD (stage left)/SM (stage right) job to organize and
store those props. And make them present at the top of the rehearsal.
5. AD: Cue lines to the actors with sensitivity and grace. Remember that we are all involved and
all have other things to do as well, have patience when dealing with actors. Actors have a
responsibility to the playwright. They need speak the words of the playwright as they were
written. Using sticky notes, give SPECIFIC written notes to the actors on specific pages and lines
they need to study at the end of rehearsals.
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AD/SM Production Contract, DSA HANN ALL School Musical 2
6. RESPECT ALL. Remember we are a team and must work together. Listen to your directors and
fellow actors. If you have a problem, talk to your directors or the person in which you are having
a problem. Techies are our friends and deserve our respect—you are the person creating the
relationship between actors and stagecraft. Take this responsibility to heart. If other actors have
a problem and come to you try to handle the situation maturely and confidentially. Listen to
problems with courtesy and patience. Try to solve problems before you bring them to the
director. Inform the director of problems that you have creatively “solved” at the end of
rehearsals when actors are gone. Model the respect you wish to receive by giving a “thank you”
to acknowledge someone giving you a note or direction.
7. Help actors remember deadlines by posting information on callboards outside theatre
classroom, vocal classroom, dance studios, and stagecraft board. Please post DAILY rehearsal
information—who is called/where & when they report. Please type notes so things are clear and
have someone proofread your work before you post it. If actors need help on creating their
character bios, be of assistance.
8. AD will make character development appointments with actors who need help creating backstory for their characters. During rehearsals when actors are offstage I will ask actors questions
to try to get them to create a full character. When actors are trying to create characters and
make choices, remind them about objectives, obstacles, inner action/tactics. Help train the
beginner actor in what these terms mean. SM will coordinate with all tech majors who are at
rehearsals. If they are there to watch a rehearsal I will welcome them, fill them in on what our
“chair” onstage represents, and be there to answer questions for them.
9. Be on task at all times in rehearsal. Don't goof off onstage or offstage. Help maintain and train
younger actors to be quiet backstage. Leave personal problems outside the rehearsals so your
problems do not distract from the creative work being done onstage. Be a problem solver, not a
drama starter.
10. Be at least five minutes early to every rehearsal to set up the space and cue music. It is my
responsibility to begin rehearsal every day—take attendance, warm up the actors, handle
“business” or have actors look over their notes, cue lines… be productive. The SM must set the
stage before rehearsal time starts.
11. You cannot miss a rehearsal unless you list it on your conflict sheet and has been approved
by directors as an excused absence. If you reach THREE unexcused, you will be replaced. WE
WILL DO THIS! Also, three tardies equal an unexcused absence. The assistant director needs to
take role and give actors a note on the callboard when they have an unexcused absence and
tardies so they are aware of this problem. This is very serious and you need to keep your actors
up to date with this info. When we get to dress week, you need to post a check in and out board.
Make sure everyone has checked in by the time in; if they are not there call their house. Also at
the end of the show, make sure everyone has checked out—signifying that his or her costumes
are hung and done. AD’s need to check the dressing rooms nightly and help the costume crew
assign fines for actors who are disrespecting their costumes. Asst. Directors should compile a
telephone tree list, type it up, have cast proofread it, and then copy it for entire cast and crew.
In tech week, SM need to make sure all props are put away, that set pieces are left where they
need to be, and that the house is clean and turn out the lights.
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AD/SM Production Contract, DSA HANN ALL School Musical 3
12. I will maintain a 2.3 GPA in your classes to be eligible to perform. I will bring Ms. Hann my
progress report at 6 weeks. If I am suspended from school, I will NOT be allowed to rehearse or
perform; suspensions will be treated as unexcused absences. If a suspension lands in the last
two weeks of a rehearsal, I may be replaced. Depending on the nature of the suspension, I can
be replaced at the digression of the directors. I MUST attend school on the day of a performance
(two classes) in order to perform. I will make smart choices during the run of this production.
13. Pay attention to the rehearsal schedule and when things are due. YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE for
yourself…not your other cast members, not your directors, not your crew. If something is DUE-check it YOURSELF.
14. I will never use alcohol or drugs before a rehearsal or performance. I will keep my mind and
body at peak performance. A clear brain is essential for the creative process. If my SM/AD or
Director even suspects drug/alcohol use at rehearsals they have an obligation to ME, the cast,
and to the school to report it—even if it is opening night it is a lead. I WILL MAKE WISE CHOICES.
Disregarding this is a disservice to your cast and shows clear disrespect for the role you have
been assigned. The AD/SM have a duty to report suspicions of drug/alcohol use to the director
in a timely manner. We have a duty to the person using, the entire cast, and the integrity of our
program to not let actors behave in a destructive manner. Even if it is opening night, Ms. Hann
will follow up on your suspicions and report behaviors to the DSA Administration.
15. Enforce the “no food or drink (other than water) in costume” rule. There is NO food or drink
allowed in the Theatre. If things are consumed at rehearsal in the lobby, you are responsible for
trash. If the director has to clean up after actors once-- there will be nothing allowed at
rehearsal. If you want to “save” your fellow actors, you can have them pick it up before I do, or
choose to pick it up and not inform the director—if you enjoy eating! At rehearsal dinners, I will
clean up after myself and the table I eat at and make sure that I am the last one in the
lunchroom so I can ensure actors clean up after themselves. Help actors care for the costumes
and props they use in the production. Costumes found disregarded and disrespected (i.e. on the
floor) will cost actors $1 per item found to reclaim it. Lost props will not be replaced.
16. My BIO/headshot for the program should already be done.
17. All cast and crew are part of the publicity crew-- I am all required to spread the word about
the show. Each cast member must hang TWO posters in local areas/businesses.
18. My “costume” for the performances will be all black attire. Please make your blacks nice—
like dress pants with a nice black shirt tucked in. Shoes need to be solid black dress shoes with
rubber or soft soles that will not make noise backstage when you walk. I will be dressed in blacks
for dress rehearsals. During the run of the show, the AD will become the House Manager and
coordinate with the box office starting times of the show at Act I and Act II, when/how late
seating will occur, and a system for communicating with the SM backstage.
19. I understand that I am an advocate for the cast and crew. I want everyone to succeed. I will
do my best to help actors meet deadlines and give the best performance they can.
20. Keeping with professional etiquette, rehearsals are closed to everyone except cast and crew.
If I notice someone in rehearsal that is not cast/crew, I will approach them and explain this
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AD/SM Production Contract, DSA HANN ALL School Musical 4
policy. If the person does not leave, I will inform the director. When photographers come into
shoot publicity photos, the AD will greet them and help them to know the best angles and
scenes in which to take pictures.
21. It is my responsibility as stage manager to make sure actors know when their costume
fittings are and that they get there. If actors miss a costume fitting, it will count as an
UNEXCUSED absence. In addition, they will owe the costume shop 30 minutes of their time. I
will coordinate with the costume department and post the costume fitting schedule and make
actors passes if they need to get out of class (getting a signature from Ms. Hann)
22. I will help actors understand the following part of their contract: “I understand that I am cast
for the look I present at auditions. I WILL NOT alter my appearance after I audition and/or have
fittings without the approval of your director/costume designer (haircut/color, facial hair,
piercings, braces…). Designs will be based on HOW I LOOK at auditions and changing things like
hair length impacts what the designers and directors are creating on stage. I understand that I
may be asked to cut/trim or color my hair by the designers.”
23. Learn to accept criticism with grace and gratitude. Learn to be your own best critic. Help the
actors learn this lesson as well. RESPECT ALL.
24. I understand how difficult it is to cast a show for the directors who take in all sorts of factors
when piecing a cast together. If I accept my part and drop this show for any reason, I will not be
eligible to audition main stage productions at DSA for a full year. I understand that it is
extremely unprofessional to drop a role because of its size. And it is extremely bad form and
unprofessional to complain about who received which roles. I am building bridges with the
professionals in this building and understand work ethic and what it means to be a part of a
whole. There are no small parts; only small actors and I realize how fortunate I am to have been
cast at all in this production. I will do my best to make this show a successful process from day
one. Be on the watch for this type of behavior in the cast—try to handle it with grace and tact.
Try to stop rumors and hurtful, negative talk immediately. I am an ADVOCATE and a LEADER of
this production. To let students go on and on about the part they didn’t receive takes the
morale of the entire show down. This is part of your job as AD or SM.
25. During the run of the show, both the AD and SM will organize an emergency kit with bandaids/gauze, duct tape, scissors, bobby pins, safety pins, medical tape, post it notes, pencils,
batteries, and a flashlight. During the run of the show, stage manager will control the flow of
people and keep quiet stage left, and asst. director controls stage right. Both AD and SM should
have their own flashlight for backstage use. I will show this Emergency Kit to Ms. Hann by the
second week of rehearsal and will have it at every rehearsal and show. The SM’s kit will be in
the SM booth during the show.
26. During the run of the show my call time is an hour and a half before curtain.
• SM: I will post and check crew sign in sheets for attendance of all crew and make sure they
have begun their pre-show duties. AD: I will post and check cast sign in sheets for attendance
• At 5:30 (matinee—12:30) SM: I will get confirmation that lights have done an
instrument/channel check and sound check all monitors and speakers. AD: I will make sure
actors are in makeup.
• By 5:30 the sound techs need to have all mics tested, batteries replaced, laid out by the booth
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AD/SM Production Contract, DSA HANN ALL School Musical 5
for actors to come pick up. AD: I will communicate to actors 15 to mic check.
• SM: I will make sure that the stage is swept and mopped, that trash is taken out and back
stage is cleaned, that all the set dressings are in place, and that all props are placed where they
need to be NO LATER than 6PM (30 minutes prior to house opening).
• AD: I understand that actors need to check their props no later than 6PM.
• AD: I will make sure mic checks begin no later than 5:30PM, and are finished by 6PM.
• SM: I will also have my crews sweep the house for trash to make our auditorium ready for an
audience.
• SM: I will make sure stage left alcove is clean and clear. AD: I will make sure stage right alcove
is clean and clear.
• AD: I will coordinate with house manager on when the ushers can do late seating.
• AD/SM: I will coordinate with director on when to start the show and when to come back after
intermission. AD: I will call actors to places pre-show and intermission on SM warning.
• SM: I will sit in the booth and call the show professionally. I will make sure chatter on headsets
is kept to a minimum—I know that I set the tone of how the crew treats the call of the show. I
will call “warn”, “standby”, and “go” for every cue clearly. AD: I will help the SM keep chatter on
headsets to a minimum.
• SM: I will coordinate with the AD/asst. SM to call actors to places at least three minutes before
we cue the start of the show and and intermission. I will make sure to communicate any holds to
the actors backstage.
• SM: At end of show I will gather my crew together to give notes of things that need repair.
AD: I will communicate with actors about costumes/props that need repair and report back to
the SM.
• SM: All props need to be re-set for start of show. AD: All costumes need to be checked in and
hung.
• Both: I will be the last out and make sure the lights are off and the doors to the Schomp,
dressing rooms, and green room are locked.
27. I understand my parent MUST volunteer to run Concessions, Box Office, or Tech Week Meals
at least one day during the week before the show and the week of the show (more information
will be forthcoming)
As you can see from the 27 points on this contract, being a leader of this production is a lot of
hard work, dedication, time, and coaching your peers. It is not for the faint at heart, but for the
go-getters in this school. It is a huge challenge and one that should be taken seriously. If you
have this time and truly want to dedicate yourself to a three- month commitment, then fill out
the contract on the following page and turn it in with your application. Your parents also must
sign that they understand the nature of your “job”. Thank you for your interest.
Remember you are a leader of this department and represent your department at all crew
meetings and when you interact with Ms. Hann, Mr. Becker, Mr. Rice, Ms, Kirksey, all teachers
involved, any guest artists, and administration overseeing this project. You will behave in the
utmost respectful manner at all times.
Deadline reminders:
1. Black clothing is my costume – due at first dress
2. Due at auditions: conflict calendar, this contract, report card of current grades, and
application.
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AD/SM Production Contract, DSA HANN ALL School Musical 6
RETURN THIS PAGE and the application TO Ms. Hann
Rehearsal Stage Manager/Assistant Director
I have read the contract for the production. I understand each of the 27 points on the contract and I will
discipline myself to follow this contract to the letter. I understand my duties, responsibilities, and
expectations of this commitment. I understand if the ensemble and crew cast in the show follow these
rules, then our production will be run professionally. I also understand that if everyone does not abide by
these “rules”, deadlines will not be met, people’s feelings could be hurt if everyone is not treated with
respect, and we will not grow as performers unless we follow these simple guidelines.
I hereby agree to the terms of this contract.
Please print name here: X _________________________________________________________________
Sign here: X ____________________________________________________________________________
Parents/Guardians
I understand the nature of this production and the issues this process may raise. I have read the contract
for the production and will help support the production. I understand that rehearsals will be after school,
possibly some early evenings, and Saturdays. Students will be responsible for their own transportation
home. I have also looked over my student’s conflicts on the schedule and agree that there are no existing
conflicts that have not been listed. I am aware of the large amount of time this show will consume and
that my student will be required to be at every rehearsal. I also understand that if my student is chosen it
is a position of leadership and an honor to be selected as this position.
I hereby give my permission for my son/daughter to audition for this production as stage manager or
assistant director and I agree to the terms of this contract.
X _____________________________________________________________________
I understand that if my student is a part of this production, I must volunteer to run either Concessions,
Box Office, or Tech Week Meals at least one day during the week before the show and the week of the
show (more information will be forthcoming).
I prefer to work:
_____ Concessions
_____ Box Office
_____ Tech Week Meals
On these specific dates:
__________________________________________
__________________________________________
_________________________________________
Email/Phone: ___________________________________________________________________
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AD/SM Production Contract, DSA HANN ALL School Musical 7
Assistant Director/Stage Manager Application
(please print or type)
Name:__________________________________________________________________
Home Phone:__________________________ Cell phone: ________________________
Email: __________________________________________________________________
Parent's name/phone: ______________________________________________________
Grade: __________
Major: __________________________________________
Write an essay answering the following questions:
1. Why are you auditioning for the production team?
2. What qualities do you feel you possess that will make you a good leader to
your peers?
3. How do you handle conflict among peers?
4. Discuss your organization skills.
5. How will this position benefit your goals you have set for yourself at DSA or
after DSA?
6. Read the contract thoroughly and understand the JOB you are applying for. In
a “mission statement” create an overview of what you see the job is.
7. Create a calendar of all the duties of the AD or SM – rehearsals beginning in
June. Do this on a separate piece of paper.
List activities you are in outside of school--include jobs-- and the times that you are
required to be there.
Do you have your own transportation to and from school? ________________________
List any special skills you have that you think could be applied to this show:
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AD/SM Production Contract, DSA HANN ALL School Musical 8
Turn in this application page/essay/calendar, your signed contract by you and your
parents, and a copy of your grades/GPA by April 10.
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