Another Crazy Idea: A Digital Production Management Platform to Bring Theatre Production Into the Digital Spotlight
Have you ever had an idea that lingers, quietly buzzing in the background, waiting for the perfect moment to come to life? Well, that’s exactly where I find myself. For years, a concept has been simmering in the back of my mind, and now feels like the right time to bring it into the open. I’m eager to share it with you—not just to put thoughts into words, but in hopes that some of you might have the insights or coding expertise to help turn this vision into reality. While I’ve dabbled with AI for smaller projects before, this one feels different. It’s ambitious, and I know I can’t do it alone. Let’s see where this journey takes us.
Imagine a digital backstage where every aspect of a theatrical production—from the first spark of the script to the final bow and the occasional after-show party—is managed seamlessly. This project aims to create an all-in-one, open-source suite tailored for the theatre world, uniting seasoned stage managers and tech-savvy coders under one digital roof. And yes, even if you still print call sheets on paper (we won’t judge), there’s something here for you.
Setting the Scene
At its core, the project seeks to streamline the production process so that theatre professionals can concentrate more on the artistry and less on the logistics. I’m talking about creating a modular system that integrates a host of functionalities via APIs, ensuring that every component—from script management to real-time cue updates—plays in perfect harmony.
Here’s a breakdown of the core features, peppered with a bit of backstage humor and insights:
Script Management
Imagine uploading your latest script, annotating it with detailed scene breakdowns, and versioning every edit like a prime-time teleprompter. This isn’t just about storing documents; it’s about transforming your script into a living document.
- Dynamic Annotations: I envision a system with dynamic spacing above each line of text and color-coded notes specific to each team. For example, if there’s a lighting cue tucked into a particular line, only the stage manager and lighting team will see it—no clutter for the rest!
- Autocue Feature: Picture an autocue that runs alongside the performance, displaying the current line and a peek at the next. It’s like having a ghost director lightly nudging everyone in real time.
Contact Management
From lead actors to that indispensable stagehand who always appears just when you need them, maintaining an updated directory is essential. This module acts as a digital Rolodex that never collects dust—and it will seamlessly tie into the communications platform discussed later.
Scheduling
Rehearsals, performances, production meetings—the calendar is the heartbeat of any production. Our scheduling module will help create, manage, and distribute calendars with such precision that even the notoriously tardy stagehand will know exactly when the curtain rises.
- Calendar Integration: I’m thinking of not only a built-in calendar but also leveraging CalDAV/WebDAV protocols, so users only see the appointments relevant to them.
Production Book
Transform that chaotic stack of binders into a neat, digital vault where every production document—from call sheets to set designs—is organized methodically.
- Cloud Storage Integration: Using platforms like NextCloud or OpenCloud via their APIs can save a lot of development time. This approach can also be extended to scheduling and contact management.
Design Tracking
Keep track of everything from set designs and lighting plots to costume sketches and prop inventories. Say goodbye to rogue sticky notes and hello to real-time updates that keep everyone on the same page.
- 2D & 3D Visuals: I envision a budget-friendly, WYSIWYG-like interface—perhaps built with Blender (with some tweaks!)—to provide both 2D and 3D views. Users can import updated Blender files directly from the storage section, ensuring that the main venue or set pieces always reflect the latest designs.
Blocking Notation
Document actor movements on stage with the precision of choreography. A tailored module will let stage managers digitally annotate and record blocking information.
- Integrated with Design: Building on the Blender idea, blocking data could be layered into the event’s Blender file. We’d, of course, need a simplified interface for those high-speed rehearsal moments.
Cue Management
Cue the lights, sound, or a dramatic pause! A live cue list will ensure every cue is tracked in real time.
- Real-Time Updates: This could be an extension of the “now and next” section integrated earlier, enabling each department to update their cues—and see those changes automatically across the app. For example, simply click on the relevant part of the script, add your cue details, and let the magic happen.
Rehearsal & Performance Reporting
Log every crucial detail—from daily rehearsal progress and attendance to those inevitable hiccups during performance. These records will serve as invaluable archives and tools for continuous improvement.
- Form-Based Systems: Implementing a flexible form system would allow seamless integration with reporting dashboards or attendance registers.
Checklists & New Play Management
Pre-show and production checklists are your best friends. When combined with a module for managing script revisions, you’ll have a version control system that minimizes miscommunications—and onstage disasters.
Production Meetings & Prop/Costume Tracking
From scheduling production meetings and logging minutes to tracking every elusive prop or costume item, this module ensures nothing slips through the cracks.
Beyond the Core: The Extra Acts
While the features above tackle the essentials, a few additional components can truly bring the digital backstage to life:
Budget & Expense Tracking
Keeping the production on budget might be the one script that leaves no room for improvisation. Integrating a budget tracking module will help manage finances and ensure every penny is accounted for. An accounting platform like Invoice Ninja, which I’ve worked with before, immediately springs to mind.
Health & Safety Compliance
Safety first! A dedicated module for emergency procedures and safety checklists will guarantee that your production is as secure as it is spectacular—because nothing outshines careful planning. This could be built on our flexible form system, even allowing the team to create custom checklists for any safety measures they need.
Stage Plot & Technical Diagrams
A digital stage plot offers visual layouts of the performance space with annotated actor positions and technical elements. This system would dovetail with the Design Tracking module but feature its own interface, displaying only the information each team needs to see.
Real-Time Communication & Incident Reporting
When the unexpected happens—and let’s be honest, it always does—instant communication is key. By integrating tools like Rocket.Chat or Mattermost, everyone can share live updates, incident reports, and more.
- Multiple Communication Channels: Ideally, the app would offer a range of options from email and chat to voice and video calls, with a robust live comms system during performances. Imagine crew members using their own smartphones to stay connected—cutting down extra expense and upping the cool factor!
The Digital Ensemble
What makes this project truly exciting isn’t just its extensive feature set—it’s the promise of uniting disparate tools into one harmonious digital ecosystem. By embracing a modular, API-first approach, every component (whether an ERP module or a custom-built interface) will communicate seamlessly, creating a comprehensive production tool.
For the theatre professional, this means less time juggling sticky notes and paper schedules, and more time focusing on the artistry of the performance. For the coder, it’s a playground of open-source tools, creative integrations, and a real-world opportunity to bring state-of-the-art technology into the realm of live theatre.
In essence, this project is a love letter to both theatre professionals and developers—a digital backstage where creativity meets efficiency in perfect harmony. Whether you’re a seasoned stage manager eager to modernize your workflow or a curious coder itching for a challenge, there’s a role for you in this production.
So, let’s grab our virtual headsets, load up our favorite IDE, and get to work. The stage is set, the script is written, and the applause is waiting—not just for the performance, but for the brilliant, collaborative effort behind the scenes.
Now, let the rehearsals begin—both in the world of theatre and in code. Curtain up!
