Backstage Essentials: Skills for Stage Techs
An introductory book about the competencies required to perform live event production. Based on the competency method of learning, each chapter will have a series of competencies, such as cable coiling, taping cables, hanging lighting fixtures, electrical, cable management, customer service, and much more. There will be chapter objectives, end-of-chapter summaries, and anecdotes from live event workers in the field.
Backstage Essentials: Skills for Stagehand Technicians in Live Event Production
Coming 2026. Published by Routledge/Taylor and Frances
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Table of Contents
Acknowledgments
Introduction
This book unveils a competency-based approach to training stage technicians, bridging classroom and stage. It clarifies the modern "stagehand technician" role, offering practical knowledge, troubleshooting tips, and insights from professionals.
Chapter 1: Stagehand Basics
This introduction to the stagehand technician role covers responsibilities, essential tools and tasks, and important logistical and communication skills.
Chapter 2: Warehouse Operations Show and Post Preparations
This overview covers preparing a warehouse for live shows, including equipment logistics, truck loading, teamwork, and post-show procedures to ensure efficient and accurate production cycles.
Chapter 3: Audio
This overview covers sound system fundamentals, including equipment, signal flow, troubleshooting, and best practices for live event audio.
Chapter 4: Lighting
This overview covers essential lighting equipment, system setup, basic programming, power, and troubleshooting for live events.
Chapter 5: Projections/Video
Covers essential projection and video equipment, system setup, operation, and screen integration for live events.
Chapter 6: General Assembly
This chapter covers pre-show preparations, including site surveys, logistical planning, venue coordination, and efficient load-in and setup for successful event execution.
Chapter 7: Breakout Room
This chapter covers creating, managing, and running successful smaller events, including technical adaptations, presenter relations, audience interaction, and complaint handling.
Chapter 8: Stage Management
This chapter covers coordinating all production elements for live events, differentiating project and stage management roles, and exploring pre-production planning, rehearsals, show calling, backstage setup, live event execution, and communication with all involved parties.
Chapter 9: Safety
This chapter covers essential live event safety protocols, emphasizing safe stage technician practices, including hazard identification, risk assessment, emergency procedures, crowd management, first aid, rigging, electrical safety, fire prevention, and PPE.
Chapter 10: Professionalism
This chapter explores essential professional skills for success in the live events industry, emphasizing effective communication, navigating industry nuances, working with diverse personalities, maintaining a positive attitude and personal health, and building professional relationships.
Appendix I: Competencies Skills Checklist
Appendix II: References
Index
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