The Program

The Stage Management program provides professional training for students pursuing a career as a stage manager.  Rigorous coursework in a broad base of theatrical specialties and extensive production experience are combined, over a required three-year full-time residency. The program provides the M.F.A. stage management candidate with a balanced background in stage production, directing , acting, design, technology, and theater management.  A maximum of two to three students are admitted annually.

Students begin as assistant stage managers and then stage manage, tech, run and maintain fully produced plays with professional directors.  Their role as a production stage manager prepares them for the demands of a professional career.

Individualized study programs permit the student to develop and explore personal and professional interests.  Close proximity to New York City facilitates the opportunity to intern at a variety of venues, as scheduling allows.  A full-time internship is a crucial portion of the thesis project, constituting the transition between the academic and professional worlds.  Students may also undertake summer internships in New York City and elsewhere.

Outside of New York, Mason Gross students have interned at major regional theaters including Guthrie Theater, La Jolla Playhouse, Arena Stage, Hartford Stage, Baltimore Opera, the Public Theater and the Goodman Theater.

Stage Management  Interview Requirements

• Submit your application to Rutgers University prior to March 1, 2010. 
• $75.00 non-refundable talent assessment fee.  (This fee is in addition to the university’s standard application fee.)
• Resume
• Interview Material:  Applicants should bring materials representative of your background and interest in theater, such as prompt books, photographs of crafts, shows or construction projects, drafting etc.

Interview Dates

There is a $75.00 non-refundable talent assessment fee made payable by check, cash or money order.  Payments should be made to Rutgers University.   (This fee is in addition to the university’s standard application fee and is due no later than the time of the appointment.)

Rutgers M.F.A. Stage Management National Interviews

*Chicago:          January 30, 31, February 1, 2 and 3, 2010

                        (evening only on Feb 1, 2 and 3)

*walk-ins are welcome

Interviews at Rutgers University New Brunswick Campus      

           By appointment only.

For Fall 2010 Admissions          

If interested, apply online at http://gradstudy.rutgers.edu

Once online submissions have been processed, the Theater Arts Department will call selected applicants to schedule an interview.