At the Stage Management Conference held at the Arts Theatre on Sunday last, 12 February, it was announced that Barbara Eifler will be stepping down as Executive Director of the Stage Management Association after 13 years in the post.
Sharon Calcutt, currently Training and Events Manager for the organisation, will become Acting Executive Director with immediate effect. A permanent incumbent for the post will be sought in the next three months.
Following a ten-year career as a stage manager, and after training at ALRA, Calcutt has been teaching and production supervising at a number of drama schools including Mountview, ALRA and RADA, and has written articles for the "Backstage" section of The Stage. Her role with SMA has included working on preparations for last weekend's conference.
Barbara Eifler, who is moving on to become Head of Membership for Making Music, commented, "I have really enjoyed my time at the Stage Management Association. I am very proud of everything the team has achieved over the last decade and I am confident I am leaving a healthy and robust organisation which will continue to grow and move forward under new leadership.
"It is essential that the Executive Director has direct experience of stage management, as well as inspiring leadership and solid management skills. I am happy to say that in my and the SMA Board's view Sharon Calcutt is that person."
Further details/contact: Barbara Eifler, [email protected]