Encore Script Notation
Standard symbols used by Stage Managers when annotating scripts and prompt books. Companion reference to Stage Manager and Show Bible.
Stage Positions
- USR: Upstage Right
- USC: Upstage Center
- USL: Upstage Left
- CSR / CSL / C: Center Stage Right / Left / Center
- DSR: Downstage Right
- DSC: Downstage Center
- DSL: Downstage Left
- SL / SR: Stage Left / Stage Right
Movement
- X: Cross to (move from one place to another)
- →: Moves to (or toward)
- ENT: Enters
- EXT: Exits
Calling Cues
- GO: The universal term used when calling the show for a cue to happen.
Cue Categories
The Encore default highlight-color convention:
| Type | Prefix | Example | Highlight color |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lights | LX | LX 2-1 | Yellow |
| Sound | SD | SD 1-A | Blue |
| Music | M | M 1-A | Green |
| Props / Scenery | P (props), SC (scenery) | P 3, SC 2 | Pink |
A show may adopt a different convention if the Stage Manager documents it on the first page of the Show Bible. Whatever colors you choose, stay consistent across the whole prompt book and tell the board operators which color means what.
Related
Status: Working · Portal: Team · Last reviewed: 2026-05-11 · Owner: Rhett