About the SMA

In the fall of 1981, a group of New York stage managers held a get-together to meet the stage managers of the Royal Shakespeare Company's Nicholas Nickleby.

That get-together was the inspiration for us to start regular meetings; at first on a social basis, then as an official Business Meeting in February 1982.

Some of the common concerns raised at those first meetings were:
  • Lack of representation in our unions
  • The need for a means by which we could exchange ideas and job opportunities
  • A need to "educate" others about the work we do

In 1982 we submitted to Actors' Equity Association a proposal for a constitutional amendment adding five seats to AEA Council specifically for stage managers. The amendment passed by an overwhelming majority at the National Membership meeting in October 1982.

Another measure to improve Stage Management representation within Actors' Equity Association was achieved in 1995 with the appointment of three Office Staff Liaisons for Stage Managers, one in each AEA Regional Office. The Liaisons will function as ombudsmen to AEA Business Staff Members for the resolution of stage managerial issues.

Mission Statement

The Stage Managers' Association is a professional organization created by and for stage managers. We seek to create a network through which we can share our problems, ideas, and stories; educate ourselves and those with whom we work; eliminate that isolated feeling which strikes us all from time to time; make our crazy jobs just a little easier, and help us to be better stage managers.