Broadway Stage Manager John Moore is set to bring world-class expertise in stage management to Jamaica through the Jamaica Musical Theatre Company’s (JMTC) Theatrix Apprenticeship Programme (TAP), scheduled for July 7–12 at the Philip Sherlock Centre for the Creative Arts.

As lead facilitator for the Thursday session of the TAP’s Stage Management Workshop, Moore will guide participants through navigating high-pressure communication pipelines between the Box and the Deck. Strategies for resolving backstage interpersonal conflicts, preserving directorial intent, and executing rapid, collaborative problem-solving when technical systems fail during a live Broadway run. 

His workshop will focus on the mechanics of running a successful show, while equipping participants with critical skills in leadership, communication, collaboration, and problem-solving.

For Moore, stage management goes far beyond calling cues or coordinating rehearsals—it is the backbone of every successful production.

“We will be exploring how to collaborate on a production,” Moore explained. “Collaboration and working with both your team and the larger show is a key element of being a stage manager. My time with the group will dive into this topic on both a macro and micro level.”

In theatre, stage managers are often the central nervous system of a production, ensuring seamless communication between directors, performers, designers, technicians, and crew. The role requires sharp decision-making, composure under pressure, and exceptional organisational skills; qualities Moore hopes to instill in participants.

Rather than relying solely on theory, Moore’s workshop will place students in practical scenarios that mirror real production challenges. Participants can expect live exercises, case studies, and collaborative problem-solving sessions designed to simulate the pressures of professional theatre environments.

“We will be talking through multiple moments on projects, both made up and real,” he said. “We’ll discuss how to resolve those issues and find ways to problem-solve no matter what level of theatre you are working in.”

Moore’s participation forms a major highlight of TAP, JMTC’s flagship training initiative aimed at strengthening Jamaica’s creative industry by developing the next generation of theatre professionals.

According to Danielle Stiebel Johnson, Chairman of Jamaica Musical Theatre Company, TAP was intentionally designed to bridge the gap between talent and industry readiness.

“TAP is a dynamic, week-long intensive programme designed for emerging theatre professionals. This isn’t just a traditional workshop, TAP serves as a career accelerator, equipping participants with the practical skills, industry knowledge, and professional mentorship needed to thrive in today’s entertainment industry,” Stiebel Johnson shared.

She explained that the programme addresses a major gap in Jamaica’s performing arts landscape by focusing on the behind-the-scenes disciplines that are vital to sustaining the industry.

This year’s staging of TAP places special emphasis on two critical areas often overlooked in theatre training: Stage Management and Makeup Design. Alongside Moore’s workshop, participants will also benefit from a Makeup Design Masterclass led by Broadway and celebrity makeup artist Kirk Cambridge-DelPesche.

By the end of the programme, Moore hopes participants will leave with a stronger understanding of how productions function and how to effectively navigate the unpredictable nature of live entertainment.

“They will walk away with a sense of problem-solving methods and also how to be a team member on various types of productions,” he said. “They will also have a better understanding of how every show is different and that the challenges that arise need to be handled differently from show to show.”