GCSE drama - seeking help about the Stage management option for the performance piece..

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In a nutshell - how do you get a good score on it?
You're not the director or producer and I can' t believe it's just about having the props in the right place at the right time.

Any teachers out here who could offer some pointers and clarity?
many thanks

Not a teacher but some drama experience. A good stage manager has the overview of everything that's happening, the cues, the props. They are the one watching the drama the 'wrong way round' and making it work. No sole actor has the same influence on the pace and the running of the piece.

Have you seen this

Thanks Mrs M will pass it onto DD. I thought I'd seen everything on the BBC site, seems I was wrong! Thanks

It is interesting isn't it? I'd never thought about the risk assessment side of things.

She'll need to make a SM book with the script in and everything written in as annotations. So cues for actors' entrances and exits, props marked on, lighting and sound cues marked on. The SM basically runs the show after the director has finished with it. Her drama teacher should have a description of what she needs to do. Which board is it - I can have a look. If you don't know, I can send a PM with what it means in the course I teach, which is AQA GCSE Performing Arts. It may not be that different.

I am an ex-stage manager. Try www.StageManagementAssociation.co.uk for more info on the best job in the world! I didn't know it was an option for GCSE drama!

This is what the AQA syllabus says for stage manager - this is for the practical exam section of the course.

4 Stage Manager
You will be aware of all the elements involved in running the Showcase.
You will prepare the prompt copy, cue sheets or other documents relating to your tasks.
You will attend rehearsals and production meetings to find out exactly what is required.
You will manage the props where appropriate.
You will know where and when set changes are needed and manage them efficiently.
You must comply with and enforce health and safety regulations and identify potential problems.