Every stage manager works their butt off to make a show incredible. There are bound to be a common string of faces they all make at some point.

10. Excitement

When they get their prompt book organized.

9. Confusion

When you tell them you have to drop the show, even though you said your schedule was open.

8. Shock

When they see you texting during rehearsals after they told you to put your phone away.

7. Anger

When you’re late to rehearsal and you don’t call them.

6. Adoration

When they see their technicians being self-sufficient.

5. Exhaustion

When they haven’t had coffee and it’s midnight during a late cue to cue.

4. Surprise

When they see you peek through the curtain before start of show (and you know it’s bad luck).

3. Joy

When they see the actors check their props.

2. Gratitude

When they hear someone say, “Thank you, five.”

1. Pride

When they see the show come together — and it looks splendid.