Prompt scripts

A prompt script is the document used by the stage manager to document the script in rehearsal, recording all line changes and blocking, and to run (or “call”) the show during performances, recording all technical cues. There is not one hard and fast way to format a prompt script – it should be whatever is clear and easy to use for the stage manager, but also clear to anyone who might need to quickly take over from the stage manager (for example, the DSM if the stage manager is unwell). It is also used for archival purposes if the show is ever remounted, or just as a record.

How to make a prompt script

Above: Standard layout for a prompt script.

A. The script, appearing on one side only of the two page spread. Physically cut and pasted onto A4 paper in the case of a photocopied script from a book, or simply holepunched on the right hand side in the case of an A4 page.

B. Record of blocking. Most commonly this will be through a combination of diagrams and shorthand notes.

C. Record of technical cues. Depending on the stage manager’s preference and show requirements, this could also be divided into columns. This will list both the cue points (recorded as “LX 30, go,” for example) and the standby, a short time before the cue point. 

The prompt script is always changing, and for this reason, you write in pencil only.

Cue categories

LX. Lighting cue. Write and say, "Standby LX 4," or "LX 4, go."

AV. An "audio visual" cue, used to refer to a projection cue. Write and say, "Standby AV 4," or "AV 4, go." Note: Although the phrase "audio visual" is commonly used to refer to projections, it is in inaccurate use of the term. However, it is a clear way to notate and call the cue. 

Sound. It is easier to say "sound" than "SX." Write and say, "Standby Sound 9," and "Sound 9, go."

Tips and tricks

Use a mix of diagrams and notes to record blocking, choosing the method most appropriate to each piece of information.

Rather than having to draw the set/stage diagram over and over, print or photocopy multiple copies and paste them into the prompt script as needed. This also means that you won't accidentally erase your set/stage diagrams when you erase the blocking to make changes. 

When calling standbys, always say "standby" first (eg, "Standby LX 12"). This makes it clear that the call is a standby only, and reduces panicked button pressing.

When calling cues, always say the cue name and number first, then "go" (eg, LX 12, go"). This allows for accurate operation of the correct cue, only on the word "go."

Cues can be put into standby or called together. For example, "Standby LX 12 and Sound 9." "LX 12 and Sound 9, together, go."

If you have a lot of cues happening very quickly, establish with your operators that you will call "lights go" or "sound go" only, without an identifying number. If there is only one category of cues, or they all share the same cue points, you may just call "go" without specifying lights or sound first. Give a full standby which includes a warning to the operators that you are calling "go only."

For even more cues happening very quickly or at the same time, you can call a block cue. For example: "Standby Block 1, being LX 12, Sound 9, AV 3, Mech 2 and Tab 4." "Block 1, go."