Having the right tools are key to success. Be sure to have the essentials at rehearsal. Bring a lot of pencils (blocking should be written in pencil, as it often changes), a note pad, a ruler, tape measure, erasers, a stapler, tape, and highlighters. The stage manager should always have the prompt book during the rehearsal process: the prompt book holds everything about the show, the final version of the script, relevant production information, contact list, calendar, and any other information about the show. This can get quite large: I tend to split it into two binders, one with the script and most current production information, and the other for everything else.

Other useful tools are a stopwatch – to see how long the show takes – a cell phone, a cushion – depending on where you have to sit during rehearsals – and a headset – as shared headsets can cause ear infections. A laptop can be extremely handy for both record keeping and immediate contact, but is not always vital. Stage managers often develop a kit of gear that they can quickly grab for rehearsals. As time passes, they add to the bag as more things become needed.