Ever wondered what it’s like to be a DSM? Well, I caught up with the lovely Anni who is currently very busy with Tamerlano rehearsals down in London!
My name is Anni and I am the Deputy Stage Manager for Tamerlano. A normal day involves setting up the rehearsal room ready for when everyone arrives with the relevant props and costume in place. Once rehearsals begin it is my responsibility to keep note of the movements of the company in each scene and any technical requirements we will have once we are on stage. All this information is kept in an annotated score which we call a ‘prompt copy’ or ‘prompt book’. The notes I make I also distribute to the production team daily to ensure that they know how the creative process is progressing. When we arrive at the theatre I will add information like changes in lighting or elements of flying set to the prompt copy, and then I will cue every performance from this book.
The role of DSM is a really exciting one, to be able to observe and help facilitate the creative process is a privilege. I have been lucky enough to work with some incredibly talented singers and creative teams in my career so far. Every day brings a new challenge, no two rehearsal processes are ever the same. I am very proud to be part of what the Tamerlano team are creating at the moment and will look forward very much to sharing it with audiences at Buxton Festival.
Anni Butler DSM Tamerlano
Tamerlano is on at Buxton Opera House on 10, 14, 17 (matinee) and 21 July.
Buxton International Festival 