Possible interview ?s for opera ASM

[dallas10086]

I'm expecting a call within a few weeks for an interview with an opera company as an ASM. I've worked on operas as a PA but not in stage management. What questions should I expect during the interview? What will they most likely be looking for in an opera ASM that would be different from the usual ASM?

[SMrose]

Some most likely asked questions: Can you read music? Are you respectful and polite when dealing with artistic staff, cast, musicians, crew? (Not that you shouldn't be repectful and polite on any type of show--but opera requires this.) Are you extreamly organized? (Opera can not handle "ad libs"/ "stalling for time" well if a singer/prop/quick change etc., isn't there/does't happen exactly on cue.)  These are just a few off the top of my head.

[Maribeth]

Do you have experience with large cast shows? (with the principal singers, chorus, supers, etc the cast of an opera can be enormous).
Can you call cues from a score?
Do you know any foreign languages? (even a little bit of foreign language can be useful)
(Depending on the venue) Do you have experience working with a union crew?
(Depending on the opera) Do you have any experience with dance?
Are you familiar with opera paperwork, particularly a WWW?

[dallas10086]

Please explain the WWW...it's who what where/when? I've never seen that done for a musical or straight play. Why is it important?

[Maribeth]

Here's a thread on what a WWW is- http://smnetwork.org/forum/index.php/topic,1003.msg5830.html#msg5830

Examples that members have posted: http://smnetwork.org/forum/index.php/topic,2495.msg15392.html#msg15392

And I think there was a discussion that included it in this thread as well: http://smnetwork.org/forum/index.php/topic,1249.15.html

[dallas10086]

Thank you! The scouring for opera info has commenced