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International Stage Management Day

It's time to give a shoutout to all the hardworking stage managers out there! Happy International Stage Management Day - you make the show run smoothly.

Saturday

October 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEOctober 10

OBSERVED INInternationally

CATEGORYCareers

SUBCATEGORYCreatives

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to give a standing ovation for International Stage Management Day on October 10! This special day has been celebrated since 2013, recognizing the hard work and dedication of stage managers in the entertainment industry. From Broadway to local community theaters, stage managers play a crucial role in ensuring smooth performances and keeping everything running behind the scenes. So let's take a moment to appreciate these unsung heroes and all they do to make our favorite shows come to life!

TIMELINE

International Stage Management Day Timeline

Origins of Stage Management

The earliest recorded forms of stage management in the theatre, initially related to script coordination and logistics, took place during the 17th century.

Expansion of Role

By the mid-1800s, the functions of stage management expanded to include managing actors and rehearsals, and even directing in some instances.

Professional Recognition

In the 20th century, stage management gained more professional recognition as theatre productions became more complex.

International Recognition

National and international stage management associations began to form, recognizing the global importance of this role.

Stage Management Handbook

The Back Stage Guide to Stage Management, 3rd Edition: Traditional and New Methods for Running a Show from First Rehearsal to Last Performance by Thomas A. Kelly, a comprehensive guide for stage managers, is published.

International Stage Management Day

The first International Stage Management Day is celebrated on October 10th, recognising the dedication and hard work of stage managers globally.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate International Stage Management Day

Host a stage management workshop

Gather a group of aspiring stage managers and host a workshop where you can share your knowledge and skills with others. This is a great way to celebrate International Stage Management Day and give back to the community.

ATTEND

Attend a theater performance

What better way to celebrate International Stage Management Day than by attending a theater performance? Show your support for the performing arts and appreciate the hard work that stage managers put into making a show successful.

ORGANIZE

Organize a stage management roundtable

Gather a group of stage managers and have a roundtable discussion about the industry. Share tips, experiences, and advice with each other while celebrating your profession on this special day.

CREATE

Create a stage management appreciation day

Get together with your colleagues and create a day to show appreciation for the hard work and dedication of stage managers. This could include small gifts, notes of thanks, or even just a special meal together.

Share an inspiring stage management quote

Spread some inspiration on International Stage Management Day by sharing a favorite quote about stage management on social media or with your colleagues. It's a great way to celebrate the profession and motivate others in the industry.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why International Stage Management Day is Important

It brings recognition to an underappreciated profession

Stage management can be a demanding and challenging job, but it is also incredibly fulfilling for those who love it. By dedicating a day to stage managers, we can show our appreciation for their hard work and passion, and bring recognition to a profession that often goes unnoticed.

Stage managers are the unsung heroes of the theater world

Stage managers work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure that a production runs smoothly. From organizing rehearsals to coordinating with actors and crew, they play a crucial role in bringing a theatrical vision to life. International Stage Management Day gives us a chance to recognize and appreciate their hard work and dedication.

It raises awareness about the importance of stage management

Many people outside of the theater industry may not be familiar with what stage managers do or how vital their role is to a production's success. By celebrating International Stage Management Day, we can shed light on this often overlooked aspect of live performance and educate others about its significance.