Clear-Com® is sponsoring and presenting the USITT Stage Management Award during the United States Institute for Theatre Technology (USITT) Annual Conference & Stage Expo, scheduled for March 18–21, 2026, in Long Beach, California. Clear-Com has sponsored the USITT Stage Management Award continuously since 2006, highlighting the company’s long-standing support of education and professional development within the theatre and live entertainment industry.
Founded in 1960, USITT serves as a professional association for theatre design, technology, and production practitioners. The organisation promotes dialogue, research, and education through conferences, educational programs, exhibitions, and publications. Its Annual Conference & Stage Expo is a central gathering for professionals, educators, students and industry suppliers.
The annual USITT Stage Management Award specifically honours students who demonstrate strong organisational skills, effective communication, and the ability to lead collaborative production teams in demanding live performance environments. Recipients are selected by USITT based on academic achievement, practical experience and demonstrated commitment to the profession.
In addition to sponsoring the award, Clear-Com will exhibit throughout the conference at Booth #1207, where attendees can meet with company representatives and learn more about professional communications systems used in live performance, broadcast, and production environments. The booth will also serve as a space to connect with students and emerging professionals studying theatre production, sound design, and live event technology, supporting the next generation of A1s, system techs, and production managers as they transition into the professional world. At the booth, visitors will get hands-on experience with Clear-Com solutions, including the new 4-Channel HelixNet® beltpack, FreeSpeak Icon™ beltpack, Arcadia® Central Station, and its portfolio of virtual intercom solutions, including Gen-IC®, Agent-IC® mobile app and Station-IC™ virtual desktop client. The exhibit will feature wired, wireless, and IP-based systems designed to support complex, hybrid, and remote production workflows across live performance and broadcast environments.
“It is an honor to present the USITT Stage Management Award and to recognise the dedication and professionalism of emerging stage managers,” said Brian Grahn, Regional Sales Manager at Clear-Com. “Clear-Com is proud to have supported this award since 2006 and to continue recognising students whose leadership and commitment are vital to live performance.”
The award presentation will take place Thursday, March 18, at 2 p.m. in the Terrace Theatre at the Long Beach Convention Center. A luncheon for award recipients and sponsors will be held immediately prior to the ceremony to provide an opportunity for informal discussion and connection ahead of the presentation.
Clear-Com’s continued sponsorship of the Stage Management Award reflects its alignment with USITT’s mission to support learning, mentorship, and career development across all stages of the profession. By recognizing emerging talent, Clear-Com contributes to the ongoing advancement of stage management and live production practices.