The SMA today

At SMA meetings we have held Forums on contracts, benefits, and tax information, computer light boards, stage combat and weaponry, theatre architecture and design, emergency medical services in NYC, mental and physical health care to performing arts professionals, managing large events and education of stage managers in undergraduate and graduate programs. 

We have hosted discussions with Broadway and Regional directors, Lighting and Sound Designers, Casting Directors, General and Company Managers, IATSE Stagehands, Opera, Ballet, and Television professionals, Senior Business Reps from AEA, and representatives from a wide range of arts-related service organizations.   

We have instituted an industry-wide program called "Operation Observation" whereby members may observe other stage managers during performances. SMA members have hosted and observed fellow stage managers at work in theatre, dance, and opera, in NYC and across the country on tour and in regional theatres.

We initiated and sponsored with the Broadway Press, and now our own annual publication The Stage Managers' Directory, which contains over 200 resume-listings for stage managers nationwide. Each year's edition is distributed to more than 500 employers across the country. The Stage Managers' Directory, currently published by our organization, is now well established as an invaluable tool for filling stage manager positions throughout the performing arts community.   

Since 1986, The SMA annually presents the "Del Hughes Award For Lifetime Achievement in the Art of Stage Management."  Given in memory of a former stage manager, the Del Hughes Award is regarded throughout the theatrical community as a crowning achievement for a stage manager's career.