As a stage manager I minimize confusion. Actors who miss rehearsal get caught up, the running crew knows what to do and when, and the director’s ideas and plans are properly communicated. I am also an advocate, when the actors don’t know who to go to they come to me. I listen to their concerns and see what I can do to help even if it is to let them just vent it out. A stage manager’s role is to keep the wheels turning.