Theatre Etiquette - Multiple Shows?

Na,

My most humble apologies - you are entirely correct here. In the case of practicability and OS+H the SM does need to and does have the right to put more than 2 cents in. And of course once the show enters technical rehearsals the SM takes on a much greater position  or responsibilty, eventually taking control of the show once the final dress has finished (although this varies in many theatres...)

My comment was influenced very much by the story I alluded to about the young man who was working with this company as Director for a show and experienced a Stage Manager who changed blocking and made other artistic decisions because she felt that what he had done was not right and that her way was better. I have seen this myself in other instances as well (although having not directed have never experienced it personally), and have seen the devestating effect it has on the production team, the cast AND the show. It is this kind of artistic control I feel the Stage Manager does not have the right to exercise.

Once again, apologies for any offence I may have caused.

Kyle