Stage Crew - Typical Positions

Typical Positions

Theatrical responsibilities taken by technicians include:

• Set construction and theatrical carpentry
• Sound system configuration and operation
• Lighting design and light board operation, Followspot operation, hanging and maintenance of stage lighting instruments as well as various other electrical jobs
• Flying of scenery and occasionally even Actors * (A.K.A. Rigger / Rigging)
• Stage Management
• Costume and prop management
• Operation of Special effects including fog machines and pyrotechnics
• Scenic Paint

A single theatrical technician may regularly do one or more of the above jobs during load in, load outs (strike), rehearsal and performance. Performance technicians are generally divided between those backstage (stagehands, Stage Managers) and those in a control room (lighting and audio technicians). During load in and load out additional crew members may be needed due to the amount of work required to be completed in a short time span. Larger and more complex shows require larger crews and often personnel with specialized advanced skills to perform these job functions.

The position may be volunteer or a paid position. It is not uncommon to receive compensation (such as comp/free tickets to the current or future productions or items used in the show) in other forms than money for pay. This type of compensation allows the person working to receive value for their services while not costing the producer more out-of-pocket expenses. Theatrical technicians are represented by the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees in the United States.