What does it take to orchestrate the magic of a Broadway play? Rachel Bauder, one of only 41 individuals currently working as a Broadway Production Stage Manager at any given time, knows the answer. With credits including productions like Enemy of the People, Beetlejuice, and Romeo and Juliet, Rachel’s career is a testament to the skill, precision, and adaptability required to keep the show going—night after night.
In this episode of No Wrong Choices, we sit down with Rachel to uncover the journey that led her to one of theater’s most demanding and rewarding roles. From her early passion for performing to mastering the intricate art of stage management, Rachel offers a rare peek into Broadway’s backstage world.
From Acting Aspirations to Backstage Mastery
Rachel didn’t set out to become a Production Stage Manager. Like many in the theater world, she began with dreams of performing. But as her career evolved, she found her true calling behind the scenes, where her ability to stay calm under pressure and manage complex logistics set her apart.
Stage management isn’t just about calling cues or handling props. For Rachel, it’s about leadership, collaboration, and supporting every member of the team—from the actors on stage to the crew working tirelessly behind the curtains. Her unique perspective as a former actor allows her to empathize with performers, creating a seamless connection between the creative and technical sides of a production.
The Role of a Broadway Production Stage Manager
What exactly does a Broadway Production Stage Manager do? Rachel’s responsibilities go far beyond making sure the curtains open on time. She coordinates every aspect of the production, ensuring that every performance runs smoothly. This includes:
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Managing schedules and rehearsals.
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Communicating with directors, cast, and crew.
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Overseeing technical elements like lighting, sound, and set changes.
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Responding to emergencies with quick, level-headed decisions.
In Rachel’s words, it’s a role that requires a balance of creativity, empathy, and organizational skills—a combination that takes years to perfect.
Lessons from Broadway’s Backstage
Rachel’s career journey offers valuable lessons for anyone pursuing a creative or leadership role. Here are a few insights she shared during the episode:
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Adaptability is key: In live theater, no two performances are the same. Learning to adapt to unexpected challenges is crucial.
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Build trust with your team: Whether you’re working with actors or crew members, trust is the foundation of a successful production.
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Be patient with your journey: Breaking into Broadway doesn’t happen overnight. Rachel’s story is a reminder that persistence and hard work pay off.
A Peek Behind the Curtains
For theater enthusiasts and career explorers alike, Rachel Bauder’s story is both inspiring and insightful. Her role as a Broadway Production Stage Manager may happen behind the scenes, but her impact is felt in every seamless performance.
Tune in to this episode of No Wrong Choices to hear Rachel’s full story and gain a deeper understanding of the magic behind Broadway’s most ambitious productions. Whether you’re dreaming of a career in theater or simply curious about what happens backstage, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.
Listen Now
Ready to step behind the curtains? Listen to our conversation with Rachel Bauder on your favorite podcast platform or at NoWrongChoices.com
