James_Emily_MFA

Author

Emily JamesFollow

DOI

https://doi.org/10.25772/ZPGA-A015

Defense Date

2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Fine Arts

Department

Theatre

First Advisor

Aaron Anderson

Second Advisor

Keith Byron Kirk

Third Advisor

Desireé Dabney

Abstract

Thesis Argument:

The gender disparity between Broadway and regional theatre stage managers reveals systemic inequalities

rooted in historical gender roles, hiring practices, and industry perceptions. While regional theatres often

demonstrate a more balanced gender representation, Broadway's competitive nature and visibility amplify

disparities. This thesis argues that a combination of traditional gender norms, network-based hiring

practices, and the pressures of commercial success influences the gender disparity on Broadway.

Structure:

I. Introduction

• Background on the role of stage managers in theatre.

• Overview of gender disparity in theatre, focusing on Broadway and regional theatres.

• Personal experience as a working freelance stage manager

II. Historical Context and Gender Roles in Theatre

• Evolution of stage management as a profession.

• Historical gender roles in theatre production and management.

• The traditional male dominance on Broadway versus regional theatres.

• For-profit vs non-profit - gender-based male vs female

III. Current Gender Disparities in Broadway Stage Management

• Statistical analysis of gender representation among Broadway stage managers.

• Factors contributing to the gender gap

• Factors contributing to the wage gap and pay discrepancies

• How many men do plays vs musicals? Is there a relation? Are women relegated

to one or the other? Does the length of the run or the length of a contract

contribute to this?

• Equity rules on bringing children into the rehearsal space? One-off Equity

Contract vs a full Equity house.

• Studies or interviews with Broadway stage managers highlighting gender-based

challenges.

IV. Gender Representation in Regional Theatre Stage Management

• Statistical comparison of gender representation in regional theatres versus Broadway.

• Factors leading to more balanced gender representation

• Examples of regional theatres prioritizing gender equity in hiring stage managers.

• Factors contributing to the wage gap and pay discrepancies

• How many men do plays vs musicals? Is there a relation? Are women relegated

to one or the other? Does the length of the run contribute to this?V. Systemic Barriers and Industry Perceptions

• Examine the systemic barriers perpetuating gender disparity on Broadway: bias,

stereotypes, and commercial success.

• The role of industry perceptions in influencing hiring practices and opportunities.

• How regional theatres challenge or reinforce these barriers.

VI. Personal Experience as a Female Freelance Stage Manager

• “What do you want to be when you grow up?” “Work on Broadway!” “Do you want a

family?” “Well yeah.” “You can’t do both.”

• Reflection on personal experiences in the field as a female stage manager.

• Insights into freelance work and how gender plays a role in opportunities, treatment, and

career progression.

• Comparison of personal experiences with broader industry trends.

VII. Conclusion

• Recap of key findings and arguments.

• (Possibly mention touring productions of Broadway shows?? How does age affect this??

Gender??)

• Final thoughts on the importance of addressing gender disparity in stage management.

• Call to action for industry professionals, theatre organizations, and policymakers.

Rights

© The Author

Is Part Of

VCU University Archives

Is Part Of

VCU Theses and Dissertations

Date of Submission

4-28-2025