Last semester, I served as the stage manager for Everything Will Be Okay, a senior capstone production. I was brought onto the project at the last minute, and although I had previous experience as an assistant stage manager on a production in Philadelphia, this was my first experience taking on the full responsibilities of stage management. Stepping into the role challenged me to adapt quickly and to develop confidence in a leadership position entirely new to me.

As stage manager, I was responsible for maintaining organization and communication throughout the rehearsal and production process. Working on a new work required flexibility and solid collaboration, especially as the production continued to evolve. Through this experience, I learned how important clear communication, problem-solving, and adaptability are within a creative environment.

At the same time, concepts I was studying during the semester in my sociology coursework influenced the way I approached collaboration and leadership. I became more aware of how communication styles and group dynamics affect the rehearsal process. Rather than viewing challenges as setbacks, I learned how to navigate them productively and use them as opportunities to strengthen collaboration within the team.

This production expanded my understanding of leadership and reinforced my ability to remain organized, communicative, and supportive under pressure. Taking on the role of stage manager for Everything Will Be Ok? pushed me outside of my comfort zone and helped me grow both personally and professionally.

The attached photos document one of our first production meetings with the faculty and creative team involved in the project. These meetings introduced the collaborative process behind the production and reflect the planning and communication necessary to bring the work from development to performance.