10.4 Technical rehearsals and cue-to-cue

Technical rehearsals are the final stage before opening night, where all production elements come together. This crucial phase integrates lighting, sound, scenery, costumes, and props with actors' performances, refining the show's technical aspects and overall flow.

Cue-to-cue rehearsals focus on running through technical cues efficiently, without performing the entire script. This process allows the crew to practice transitions and timing, identify issues, and make necessary adjustments to ensure smooth execution during performances.

Technical rehearsal process

• Technical rehearsals, also known as tech week, are a crucial phase in the theater production process where all technical elements are integrated with the actors' performances
• Tech week involves long hours and intense collaboration between the director, designers, stage management, and crew to refine the production before opening night
• The main focus of tech rehearsals is to incorporate lighting, sound, scenery, props, and costume elements into the show, ensuring smooth transitions and enhancing the overall storytelling

Preparing for tech week

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• Prior to tech week, the stage manager creates a detailed schedule outlining the goals for each rehearsal and the specific scenes or cues to be worked on
• Designers and crew members ensure that all necessary equipment, materials, and paperwork are ready for the start of tech, including updated cue sheets and plots
• Actors should be off-book and comfortable with their blocking, allowing the focus to be on integrating technical elements

Goals of technical rehearsals

• Establish and refine the timing and execution of all technical cues, including lighting, sound, and scenic transitions
• Ensure that the technical elements support and enhance the actors' performances without overshadowing them
• Identify and resolve any technical issues or challenges that arise, such as sightline problems or sound balance concerns
• Provide an opportunity for the director to see the production with all elements in place and make final adjustments

Role of director in tech

• The director provides overall guidance and vision for the integration of technical elements, ensuring they align with the artistic intent of the production
• During tech rehearsals, the director works closely with the designers and stage manager to refine cues, transitions, and the overall pacing of the show
• The director gives notes and feedback to the actors, crew, and designers throughout the process, helping to polish the production

Responsibilities of stage manager

• The stage manager is the primary coordinator during tech rehearsals, facilitating communication between the director, designers, and crew
• They maintain the production script, which includes all cues and technical notations, and ensure that everyone is working from the most current version
• The stage manager calls all cues during the rehearsals, following the director's intent and making note of any adjustments needed
• They also document any changes or issues that arise during tech and communicate them to the appropriate parties

Involvement of designers and crew

• Lighting, sound, scenic, costume, and props designers attend tech rehearsals to ensure their designs are being executed as intended and to make any necessary adjustments
• Crew members, such as light and sound board operators, follow spot operators, and stagehands, practice their responsibilities and cues during tech
• Designers and crew work collaboratively with the director and stage manager to refine the technical elements and ensure smooth operation during the performances

Cue-to-cue rehearsal

• A cue-to-cue rehearsal, often abbreviated as Q2Q, is a specific type of technical rehearsal that focuses on running through all of the technical cues in the show without performing the entire script
• The purpose of a Q2Q is to efficiently work through the cues, allowing the designers, crew, and stage management to practice the transitions and timing without the need for full performances from the actors

Purpose of cue-to-cue

• Establish the sequence and timing of all technical cues, including lighting, sound, and scenic transitions
• Allow the crew to practice their responsibilities and become familiar with the flow of the show
• Identify any technical issues or challenges that need to be addressed before running full tech rehearsals
• Provide an opportunity for the director and designers to see the cues in context and make any necessary adjustments

Efficiency vs thoroughness

• During a Q2Q, the focus is on efficiency, as the goal is to work through all of the cues in a limited amount of time
• However, it's important to balance efficiency with thoroughness, ensuring that each cue is given sufficient attention and any issues are properly addressed
• If a particular cue or transition proves problematic, it may be necessary to spend more time working on it to ensure it is executed correctly

Skipping non-technical scenes

• To maximize efficiency, scenes that do not involve any technical cues are often skipped during a Q2Q
• The stage manager will call out the scene numbers or page numbers, and the actors will move to the appropriate positions on stage without performing the full scene
• This allows the focus to remain on the technical elements and helps to move through the script more quickly

Adjusting and refining cues

• As the Q2Q progresses, the director, designers, and stage manager take note of any cues that need to be adjusted or refined
• This may involve changes to the timing, intensity, or placement of lighting cues, sound effects, or scenic transitions
• The stage manager documents these changes in the production script, ensuring that everyone is working from the most current version

Collaboration of creative team

• A Q2Q requires close collaboration between the director, designers, stage manager, and crew
• The director provides guidance and feedback on the overall flow and timing of the cues, while the designers ensure their elements are functioning as intended
• The stage manager facilitates communication between all parties and ensures that any changes or adjustments are properly documented and communicated to the team

Lighting cues in tech

• Lighting cues are a crucial aspect of technical rehearsals, as they help to create the visual atmosphere, focus the audience's attention, and support the emotional tone of each scene
• During tech, the lighting designer works closely with the director and stage manager to refine the timing, intensity, and placement of each lighting cue

Hanging and focusing lights

• Before tech rehearsals begin, the lighting crew hangs and focuses the lights according to the lighting plot created by the designer
• This process involves physically installing the lighting instruments on the lighting grid or poles and adjusting their position and beam angle to achieve the desired coverage and effect
• Proper hanging and focusing ensure that the lighting cues will be effective and consistent throughout the production

Programming light console

• The lighting designer or a programmer inputs the lighting cues into the light console, which controls the intensity, color, and timing of each lighting instrument
• During tech rehearsals, the lighting cues are refined and adjusted as needed, with the console operator making note of any changes
• The console is also used to create smooth transitions between cues, ensuring that the lighting flows seamlessly with the action on stage

Transitions between cues

• Lighting transitions are a key element of the overall flow and pacing of the production
• The lighting designer and director work together to determine the timing and style of each transition, whether it's a sudden blackout, a gradual fade, or a complex sequence of cues
• During tech rehearsals, these transitions are practiced and refined to ensure they support the storytelling and maintain the desired pace

Timing and rhythm of cues

• The timing and rhythm of lighting cues are essential to creating the desired mood and supporting the action on stage
• Cues may be timed to coincide with specific lines, movements, or sound effects, helping to punctuate key moments and guide the audience's focus
• The stage manager, director, and lighting designer collaborate to fine-tune the timing of each cue, ensuring that they flow naturally with the performance

Balancing visibility and mood

• One of the primary challenges in lighting design is balancing the need for visibility with the desire to create a specific mood or atmosphere
• During tech rehearsals, the lighting designer and director work to find the right balance, ensuring that actors are adequately lit while still maintaining the intended emotional tone
• This may involve adjusting the intensity, color, or angle of certain lights to achieve the desired effect without compromising the audience's ability to see the action on stage

Sound and music cues

• Sound and music cues play a vital role in creating the aural landscape of a production, helping to establish setting, underscore emotions, and punctuate key moments
• During tech rehearsals, the sound designer works closely with the director and stage manager to refine the placement, timing, and balance of each sound and music cue

Placement of speakers and mics

• The sound designer determines the optimal placement of speakers and microphones to ensure even coverage and clarity throughout the performance space
• This may involve using a combination of stage monitors, house speakers, and individual microphones for actors
• During tech rehearsals, the sound crew tests and adjusts the placement of speakers and mics to achieve the desired balance and minimize feedback or other technical issues

Setting sound levels

• The sound designer and sound board operator work together to set the appropriate levels for each sound and music cue
• This involves balancing the volume of different elements, such as sound effects, music, and actor microphones, to ensure that each component is audible without overpowering the others
• During tech rehearsals, sound levels are adjusted as needed to accommodate the specific needs of each scene and the acoustics of the performance space

Integrating live and recorded sound

• Some productions may incorporate both live and recorded sound elements, such as a live orchestra or band alongside pre-recorded sound effects
• The sound designer is responsible for integrating these elements seamlessly, ensuring that the timing and balance between live and recorded sound is maintained throughout the performance
• During tech rehearsals, the sound team works to fine-tune the integration of live and recorded elements, making adjustments as needed to achieve a cohesive aural experience

Underscoring vs punctuating action

• Sound and music cues can serve different functions within a production, either underscoring the emotional tone of a scene or punctuating specific actions or moments
• Underscoring involves using music or ambient sound to create a consistent emotional backdrop, subtly reinforcing the mood without drawing attention to itself
• Punctuating action involves using sound effects or music to highlight specific moments, such as a door slamming or a character's entrance, adding impact and emphasis to the storytelling
• During tech rehearsals, the director and sound designer work together to determine the appropriate balance between underscoring and punctuating cues, ensuring that each type of cue serves its intended purpose

Communicating sound cues to stage manager

• The sound designer provides the stage manager with a detailed cue sheet that lists all of the sound and music cues in the production, along with their timing and any specific notes
• During tech rehearsals, the stage manager follows this cue sheet, calling each sound cue at the appropriate moment and communicating any adjustments or changes to the sound board operator
• The stage manager and sound designer work together to ensure that all sound cues are executed accurately and consistently throughout the rehearsal process and into the final performances

Scenic transitions

• Scenic transitions involve the movement and placement of set pieces, furniture, and other physical elements between scenes or acts
• During tech rehearsals, the director, stage manager, and crew work together to choreograph and refine these transitions, ensuring they are smooth, efficient, and safe

Choreographing set changes

• The director and stage manager develop a detailed plan for each scenic transition, outlining the specific movements of set pieces and the crew members responsible for each task
• This choreography takes into account the timing of the transition, the placement of each set piece, and the flow of actors on and off stage
• During tech rehearsals, the crew practices these transitions repeatedly, refining the choreography as needed to ensure a seamless flow between scenes

Assigning crew responsibilities

• Each crew member is assigned specific responsibilities during scenic transitions, such as moving set pieces, operating fly systems, or managing props
• These assignments are based on the individual skills and strengths of each crew member, as well as the specific needs of the production
• During tech rehearsals, the stage manager ensures that each crew member understands their responsibilities and is able to execute them effectively

Marking placement of set pieces

• To ensure consistency and accuracy during scenic transitions, the stage management team often uses spike tape or other markers to indicate the precise placement of set pieces on stage
• These markers serve as visual cues for the crew, helping them to quickly and accurately position each element during the transition
• During tech rehearsals, the crew practices aligning set pieces with these markers, making adjustments as needed to ensure a precise and consistent look

Efficiency of transitions

• Efficient scenic transitions are crucial to maintaining the flow and pacing of the production, as lengthy or clumsy transitions can disrupt the audience's engagement and the overall storytelling
• The director and stage manager work to streamline each transition, minimizing the time required and ensuring that the crew can execute the changes smoothly and quickly
• During tech rehearsals, the team looks for opportunities to optimize transitions, such as pre-setting elements or using automation to speed up the process

Safety considerations during changes

• Safety is a top priority during scenic transitions, as the movement of large set pieces and the presence of actors on stage can create potential hazards
• The stage manager and crew are responsible for ensuring that all transitions are executed safely, with clear communication and a focus on the well-being of all involved
• During tech rehearsals, the team identifies any safety concerns and develops strategies to mitigate risks, such as establishing clear sight lines, using safety equipment, or adjusting the choreography as needed

Costume and prop notes

• Costume and prop notes are an essential part of the technical rehearsal process, as they help to refine the visual elements of the production and ensure consistency and functionality throughout the run
• During tech rehearsals, the costume and prop designers work closely with the director, stage manager, and actors to address any issues or concerns related to these elements

Tracking costume changes

• The costume designer and wardrobe crew track the costume changes for each character throughout the production, ensuring that actors have sufficient time to change and that all necessary costume pieces are available
• During tech rehearsals, the team identifies any challenges or issues related to costume changes, such as quick changes or complex layering, and develops strategies to address them
• The stage manager incorporates costume change timings into the overall show flow, ensuring that actors are able to make their entrances on time and in the correct costume

Checking prop functionality and placement

• The props designer and props crew are responsible for ensuring that all props are functional, safe, and available when needed
• During tech rehearsals, the team checks each prop for accuracy, durability, and ease of use, making any necessary adjustments or replacements
• The stage manager and props crew also establish the placement and tracking of props throughout the show, ensuring that they are preset in the correct locations and returned to their designated storage areas after use

Resolving technical issues

• Tech rehearsals provide an opportunity to identify and resolve any technical issues related to costumes and props, such as malfunctioning zippers, ill-fitting garments, or props that fail to operate as intended
• The costume and prop designers work with their respective crews to troubleshoot and address these issues, making repairs, alterations, or substitutions as needed
• The stage manager documents any ongoing issues and ensures that the appropriate parties are informed and working towards a resolution

Accommodating actor needs and comfort

• The comfort and safety of actors is a key consideration when it comes to costumes and props
• During tech rehearsals, actors provide feedback on the fit, comfort, and functionality of their costumes and props, and the designers make adjustments as needed to ensure that the actors are able to perform effectively
• This may involve altering the fit of a costume, adjusting the weight or balance of a prop, or finding alternative solutions that better suit the actor's needs

Continuity between scenes and acts

• Maintaining continuity in the appearance and placement of costumes and props across scenes and acts is crucial to the overall coherence of the production
• During tech rehearsals, the costume and prop designers, along with the stage management team, take note of any inconsistencies or discrepancies in the appearance or placement of these elements
• The team works to address these issues, ensuring that costumes and props remain consistent throughout the show and that any intentional changes are clearly communicated and executed

Integrating all production elements

• The ultimate goal of technical rehearsals is to integrate all of the production elements, including lighting, sound, scenery, costumes, and props, into a cohesive and compelling whole
• This process requires close collaboration and communication between the director, designers, stage management, and crew, as each element must work in harmony with the others to support the overall vision and storytelling of the production

Coordinating light, sound, and scenic cues

• One of the key challenges in integrating production elements is ensuring that lighting, sound, and scenic cues are coordinated and timed effectively
• During tech rehearsals, the director and stage manager work with the respective designers to establish the sequence and timing of these cues, ensuring that they flow seamlessly and support the action on stage
• This may involve adjusting the timing of a lighting cue to coincide with a specific sound effect, or coordinating the movement of a set piece with a change in the soundscape

Balancing spectacle and story

• While technical elements can add visual and aural interest to a production, it's important to balance the use of spectacle with the needs of the story and characters
• During tech rehearsals, the director and designers work to ensure that the technical elements enhance rather than overshadow the storytelling, finding a balance that supports the emotional and thematic content of the play
• This may involve simplifying or cutting certain technical elements, or finding ways to integrate them more seamlessly into the overall narrative

Maintaining consistency of design

• Consistency in the design elements is crucial to creating a cohesive and immersive world for the audience
• During tech rehearsals, the designers and director work to ensure that the lighting, sound, scenery, costumes, and props all adhere to a consistent aesthetic and style, supporting the overall tone and atmosphere of the production
• This may involve making adjustments to the color palette, textures, or visual motifs used throughout the design, or finding ways to create a sense of unity and continuity across different scenes and locations

Adapting to director's vision

• While designers bring their own creative vision and expertise to the production, they must also be able to adapt and respond to the director's overall vision and goals
• During tech rehearsals, the director provides feedback and guidance to the designers, helping to shape and refine the technical elements in service of the larger artistic vision
• Designers must be open to collaboration and willing to make adjustments or compromises as needed to ensure that all elements are working together effectively

Polishing transitions and timing