Theatre: Art in Action

Chapter 9: Technical Theatre

Overview

In preparation for a performance, the stage crew—supervised by the stage manager—needs to complete construction, assemble equipment and supplies, prepare checklists, and rehearse technical operations. Scenery needs to be easily manageable and unobtrusive. Props need to be available when and where they are needed. The lighting crew needs to make its design a reality, usually with the help of lighting trees or booms and a lighting cue sheet. Sound crews need to devise methods to make convenient and effective sound for the audience, working off of a sound cue sheet. The building of costumes, using patterns and then dye methods, needs to be completed. Actors should be educated in applying their own makeup, especially blending, highlighting, and shadowing. At final rehearsals, all the crews should work out any kinks that are left. During the run of the show, the cast needs to practice backstage etiquette. After the run of the show, the set should be struck as efficiently as possible.