6 - Technical Rehearsals

Technical Rehearsals

Active Roles

The following roles are most active in this phase. Each role’s specific tasks live in their own doc’s By Phase section, and the orientation paragraph for each role × phase lives in Phase Overviews.

Production Manager · Director · Music Director · Choreographer · Stage Manager · Assistant Stage Manager · Production Assistant · Technical Director · Set Builder · Set Designer · Costume Designer · Costume Coordinator · Light Designer · Sound Designer · Prop Designer

Introduction

Technical rehearsals represent one of the most challenging and rewarding phases of theatrical production. This is the moment when all elements of design and performance converge — when the vision that has lived in everyone’s imagination finally materializes in physical form on the stage.

First, a note about tech: Tech is Hard.

All the ideas the creative team has been dreaming up suddenly have to work in real time with one another. Some ideas won’t work, and some things will need rethinking. The key to navigating this complex phase successfully is preparation, communication, and accountability.

Stay ahead of challenges by taking ownership of your work and your department’s responsibilities. The guiding principle that will carry your production through technical rehearsals is simple yet profound:

“Be where you said you’d be, when you said you’d be there, having done what you said you’d do.”

Designer Run

The tech process truly begins at the designer run. This pivotal event serves as the bridge between rehearsals and technical integration.

Purpose and Expectations

Designers are expected to attend the designer run with:

• A complete understanding of their designs
• Clear knowledge of how their work serves the storytelling
• A practical plan for execution
• Flexibility to collaborate with other design areas

The designer run is your opportunity to catch and work out issues before moving into the performance space. It is not the time to present first drafts or untested concepts. Every element should be fully conceptualized, even if it hasn’t yet been physically realized.

If You’re Uncertain

If you don’t know what a solid plan looks like for your area, just ask! Every production is different, and it’s perfectly acceptable not to have all the answers — but always reach out for clarification. Communication will invariably be your strongest asset during this phase.

Design Integration

All designers should arrive with fully realized designs yet remain ready to be flexible and collaborate with other members of the design team. The true art of technical rehearsals lies in transforming multiple artistic visions into a singular, cohesive creation that tells one clear, moving story.

Practical Application

Depending on the director’s discretion, the designer run often provides an opportunity for the director to sit with the lighting designer and stage manager to discuss specifics about lighting (colors, mood, areas that should or shouldn’t be lit). This allows the lighting designer to begin programming the board and provides lead time to discuss what may or may not be possible given the space and available equipment.

Follow-Up

The designer run should always be followed by a production meeting where questions and discrepancies can be addressed. This meeting sets the foundation for the entire technical process to follow.

Pre-Tech Preparation

All of the following preparations should be completed before actors begin their technical rehearsal process. There is a lot that can be done without young artists present — and should be done without young artists present. Each department has specific responsibilities to ensure a smooth transition into technical rehearsals.

Lighting

Preparation Requirements:

• Lights should be pre-programmed with at least a first pass based on the designer run.
• All additional instruments (spotlights, projectors, special effects) should be installed, tested, and in working order.
• Focus should be completed with all instruments properly positioned.
• Color media should be installed.
• Safety checks on all equipment should be performed.

Common Challenges:

• Insufficient time for programming
• Discovering burned-out instruments
• Realizing positioning doesn’t match the director’s vision

Solutions:

• Begin programming as early as possible using notes from the designer run.
• Test all instruments during installation.
• Maintain open communication with the director about placement and angles.

Sound

Preparation Requirements:

• All music should be imported into the sound system/board.
• Each track should be tested in the house to ensure proper function.
• Sound levels should be balanced for the specific performance space.
• Microphones should be connected and tested.
• Sound effects should be programmed and ready.

Important Note: Someone with the ability to “design” the sound — meaning adjust and balance levels — needs to be present for this work. A board operator alone is not sufficient.

Common Challenges:

• Unexpected audio quality issues in the performance space
• Balance problems between vocals and backing tracks
• Microphone feedback or failures

Solutions:

• Test sound in the actual performance space as early as possible.
• Plan separate time for balancing vocals with accompaniment.
• Have backup microphones and batteries readily available.

Props

Preparation Requirements:

• A props table should be set up with clearly defined sections.
• Each section should be labeled with:
  • Name of the prop
  • Scene(s) in which it’s used
  • Character(s) who use it
• All props should be physically present and in working order.
• Tape marks on tables should indicate the exact placement of each item.

Common Challenges:

• Missing props
• Props that don’t function as intended
• Insufficient space for organized storage
• Losing track of props, especially smaller ones

Solutions:

• Create a detailed inventory and check items daily.
• Test all functional props before technical rehearsals.
• Plan your props table layout carefully to maximize space.
• Plan the tracking of props: where do they start AND where do they end up? How do they get back to where they need to start?

Costumes

Preparation Requirements:

• All costumes should be completed and ready for use.
• Costumes should be organized by character.
• A detailed breakdown should exist for each actor showing:
  • When each piece is to be worn
  • Any quick changes that need to be rehearsed
  • Special handling instructions
• All necessary accessories should be prepared.

Common Challenges:

• Discovering fit issues during technical rehearsals
• Unanticipated quick change difficulties
• Costume elements that restrict movement or create noise

Solutions:

• Schedule costume fittings well before technical rehearsals.
• Plan and practice quick changes in advance.
• Test costumes for movement and sound issues.

Sets

Preparation Requirements:

• All set pieces should be built and installed.
• Movement and functionality should be thoroughly tested.
• A plan should be created for:
  • When each set piece moves
  • How many people (and which specific people) will move it
  • Precise placement locations both on and off stage
• Spike marks should be applied for all set positions.

Common Challenges:

• Set pieces that are too heavy or awkward to move efficiently
• Transitions that take longer than anticipated
• Set elements that create unwanted noise

Solutions:

• Practice moves with the actual people who will perform them.
• Time all transitions and adjust designs if necessary.
• Apply felt or other sound-dampening materials where needed.

Stage Management

Preparation Requirements:

• The Stage Manager’s “Bible” should be ready with:
  • Set moves
  • Sound cues
  • Light cues
  • Any other technical cues already written in
• Props and set pieces should be verified against the script.
• Any missing or altered items should be documented.
• A comprehensive pre-tech report should be prepared for the director, noting:
  • Missing elements
  • Design alterations
  • Potential concerns

Safety Preparations:

• The Stage Manager and Production Manager should conduct a thorough safety walk-through.
• The performance space should be inspected for hazards.
• Emergency procedures should be established.
• First aid supplies should be available and accessible.

Dry Tech

Before introducing actors to the technical elements, a dry tech rehearsal should be conducted with the entire design team present.

Purpose

The dry tech provides an opportunity to:

• Run through technical cues in sequence.
• Focus on set moves and transitions.
• Test the coordination between lights, sound, and set changes.
• Work out timing issues without the added variable of performers.

Process

1. The stage manager calls cues as they would during a performance.
2. Technicians execute their responsibilities.
3. The director and designers observe and make notes.
4. Problems are identified and solutions implemented.
5. Complex sequences may be repeated until they run smoothly.

Benefits

This rehearsal allows the production team to:

• Work out technical bugs before young artists enter the equation.
• Establish clear communication patterns between departments.
• Build confidence in the technical execution.
• Create a more positive experience for performers during their first technical rehearsal.

Technical Rehearsals

With pre-tech preparations complete and dry tech issues resolved, it’s time to bring in the performers for full technical rehearsals.

Setting Expectations

Begin the first technical rehearsal by:

• Welcoming performers to the space.
• Establishing clear safety guidelines.
• Explaining the technical rehearsal process.
• Setting appropriate expectations about pace and repetition.
• Encouraging patience and focus.

The Technical Rehearsal Process: A Layered Approach

Technical rehearsals should ideally follow a progressive, layered approach that introduces technical elements one at a time. This methodical process allows young artists to adapt to each new element gradually and gives the production team the opportunity to focus on integrating each component properly before adding more complexity.

Recommended Technical Rehearsal Progression

1. Spacing Rehearsal:

   • The first time performers work with the actual set
   • Focus on blocking adjustments needed for the performance space
   • Work through each scene and musical number (prioritizing complex sequences if time is limited)
   • No technical cues yet — just adapting to the physical environment

2. Cue-to-Cue with Basic Technical Elements:

   • Add lighting cues
   • Consider adding microphones at this stage if using them
   • Jump from one technical moment to the next without running scenes in their entirety
   • Focus on timing and execution of technical elements

3. Stop/Start with Added Elements:

   • Add sound cues if not already incorporated
   • Consider introducing costumes at this stage
   • Run segments of the show with pauses to address issues
   • Begin integrating all elements while still maintaining the ability to stop and fix problems

4. Full Runs with Complete Technical Integration:

   • All technical elements should be present (lighting, sound, microphones, costumes, props, etc.)
   • Complete run-throughs with minimal stops
   • Focus on refining rather than introducing elements
   • Practice performance conditions

Why Layer Technical Elements?

This phased approach offers several important benefits:

• Cognitive Load Management: Young artists can focus on adapting to one new element at a time rather than being overwhelmed by multiple changes.
• Targeted Problem-Solving: The production team can identify and address issues specific to each technical element before adding additional complexity.
• Efficiency: Technical issues can be isolated and resolved more quickly when elements are introduced sequentially.
• Confidence Building: Each successful integration builds performers’ confidence for the next phase.

Important Note: While this layered progression represents best practices, each production should develop a technical rehearsal plan based on its unique challenges, complexity, and available rehearsal time. The key principle is to introduce complexity gradually rather than all at once — even if the specific sequence needs to be adapted to your circumstances.

Department Integration

During technical rehearsals, each department faces unique challenges.

Lighting:

• Fine-tuning focus and intensities
• Adjusting timing of cues
• Solving visibility issues

Sound:

• Balancing levels between microphones and playback
• Adjusting volumes based on actor projection
• Refining cue timing

Costumes:

• Practicing quick changes
• Making final adjustments
• Addressing mobility or comfort issues

Sets:

• Training crew and cast on proper handling
• Finalizing transition choreography
• Addressing noise or movement issues

Stage Management:

• Calling complex cue sequences
• Documenting changes and solutions
• Coordinating all elements

Pacing Considerations

Technical rehearsals are naturally slower than regular rehearsals. Plan accordingly:

• Schedule more time than you think you’ll need.
• Build in regular breaks.
• Celebrate small victories.
• Maintain a positive, solution-focused atmosphere.

Communication During Tech

Clear, efficient communication becomes even more critical during technical rehearsals.

Communication Hierarchy

Establish a clear chain of communication:

• The director communicates artistic needs.
• The stage manager relays timing and coordination information.
• Department heads address issues within their areas.
• The production manager handles cross-departmental concerns.

Problem-Solving Protocol

When issues arise:

1. Clearly identify the problem.
2. Determine which department(s) need to address it.
3. Propose potential solutions.
4. Test the chosen solution.
5. Consider documenting the resolution for future reference.

Production Meetings

Production meetings should be scheduled after each technical rehearsal. You may not always need them, but it’s better to have the time reserved. These meetings allow the team to:

• Address outstanding issues.
• Communicate design changes.
• Coordinate solutions across departments.
• Plan priorities for the next rehearsal.

Troubleshooting

Even with perfect preparation, technical challenges will inevitably arise.

Common Technical Issues

Timing Problems:

• Transitions taking too long
• Cue execution that doesn’t match performance
• Insufficient time for costume changes

Equipment Failures:

• Light or sound cues not functioning
• Set pieces breaking or malfunctioning
• Costume elements failing

Space Limitations:

• Insufficient wing space
• Challenging sightlines
• Acoustical problems

Problem-Solving Approach

1. Stay calm and focused.
2. Prioritize safety first.
3. Consider multiple solutions.
4. Test before implementing.
5. Document successful fixes.

Remember that problems during technical rehearsals are normal and expected. The measure of a successful production team is not the absence of challenges but how effectively those challenges are addressed.

Supporting Young Artists Through Tech

Technical rehearsals can be particularly challenging for young performers who may have limited experience with the process.

Preparing Young Artists

Before technical rehearsals begin:

• Explain what to expect.
• Tour the space and point out any hazards.
• Demonstrate proper handling of technical elements.
• Set clear expectations about pacing and repetition.

Creating a Positive Experience

During technical rehearsals:

• Acknowledge the challenge and appreciate their patience.
• Provide clear instructions.
• Celebrate their adaptability.
• Keep them informed about what’s happening during holds.
• Build in activities during long technical sequences.

Age-Specific Considerations

Younger Performers:

• Schedule shorter technical sessions.
• Plan more breaks.
• Have additional adult supervision.
• Use simpler explanations.

Teen Performers:

• Involve them in problem-solving.
• Explain the “why” behind decisions.
• Recognize their contributions.
• Maintain professional expectations.

Conclusion

Technical rehearsals represent the culmination of months of creative work and planning. This is when individual artistic visions merge into a cohesive theatrical experience.

Remember that technical challenges are an inherent part of the process, not a sign of failure. With thorough preparation, clear communication, and a positive problem-solving approach, your production team can navigate the complexities of technical rehearsals successfully.

The key principles to carry with you throughout the technical process are:

1. Preparation: Complete as much work as possible before technical rehearsals begin.
2. Communication: Maintain clear, constructive dialogue between all departments.
3. Flexibility: Be ready to adapt when original plans need adjustment.
4. Accountability: Take ownership of your responsibilities.
5. Patience: Understand that the process takes time and persistence.

By embracing these principles, your technical rehearsals can transform from a stressful experience into an exciting phase of creative problem-solving and theatrical magic.

And remember: always plan to have production meetings after every tech rehearsal. You may not need them, but it’s better to be prepared than caught unprepared.

Good luck!

Related

• Stage Manager
• Production Manager

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Status: Working · Portal: Team · Last reviewed: 2026-05-11 · Owner: Rhett