Stage Manager · Production Manager · Professor · Author
Welcome to LifeintheThe8tre!
As a lifelong practitioner in the theater as a stage manager, production manager, and professor, I would love to share my perspectives with you. I continue to write and also work on projects that entice me and provide the opportunity to move around the world and see and meet new friends.
I’m excited to announce that as of 9/28/26, my book is now available as an audio book! Check out the book page!
Elsbeth M. Collins · lifeinthethe8tre.com
Explore
Personal and professional perspectives on a life in the theatre.
I’ve been writing and reflecting on the different facts and events of my life since I started my blog in 2014. With this remake of its pages, I’m dividing the content according to life and profession.
01 / Personal
Personal Perspectives
Reflections on love, family, travel, art, writing, grandparenting, and grief — perspectives from a full personal life, shared as they continue to change and grow.
02 / Professional
Professional Perspectives
Teaching, stage management, and production management — perspectives from a professional life in the theater, from Los Angeles to New York to Dubrovnik.
03 / The Book
My Heart In My Mouth
A humorous, insightful book detailing a long theatrical career in professional stage management, followed by nearly two decades as a university instructor and production manager.
About
Meet Elsbeth M. Collins
I was born in New York City, grew up in southwestern Pennsylvania, and was educated at St. Paul’s School and Princeton University. I’ve had a fulfilling career, first as a professional stage manager primarily in Los Angeles but with stints in New York and Dubrovnik. In addition, I relished nearly two decades at USC as a professor and production manager for close to four hundred student productions.
I view life as an opportunity for learning, honing curiosity and passion for everything, including the theater. I try to say Yes to life every day.
Career
Professional stage manager — Los Angeles · New York · Dubrovnik
Teaching
Professor and production manager at USC — close to four hundred student productions
The Book
My Heart In My Mouth: Finding the Next Words (Archway Publishing)
Now
Writing, traveling, and projects that entice
The Memoir
My Heart In My Mouth:
Finding the Next Words
Veteran stage manager Elsbeth M. Collins’ compelling book about her life in the theater — humorous, insightful, and hard won from off-stage observation.
Available from Archway, Amazon & Barnes & Noble
