Learn how to show up prepared, communicate clearly, and support the crew through load-in, rehearsal, show, and load-out. Reliable habits matter in every department.
Venue rules and the crew lead's direction take priority.
Shows are organized by departments and leads. A task may come from a department head, crew chief, or designated supervisor. Confirm who is directing your work before starting.
Use the communication system the way the production specifies. Keep messages short and relevant. Listen before speaking; identify yourself or your station as directed; state the request or observation; wait for acknowledgment.
Avoid unnecessary chatter during cues, emergency calls, or other critical moments. If you miss an instruction, say so and ask for a repeat instead of guessing.
| Phase | What is happening | How a stagehand can help |
|---|---|---|
| Load-in | Gear arrives and moves from dock to work areas. | Check labels and destination with a lead; use the assigned route and team lift when requested. |
| Setup / build | Departments assemble and connect their systems. | Keep cases organized; maintain clear paths; ask before handling unfamiliar or suspended gear. |
| Line check / rehearsal | Teams verify systems and practice cues. | Stay quiet and attentive; follow cues exactly; don't change connections without instruction. |
| Show | Performers and operators execute the event. | Stay at assigned station, keep backstage clear, and respond through the chain of command. |
| Load-out | Gear is disconnected, packed, and returned. | Wait for the department's shutdown and pack sequence; protect cable, connectors, and cases. |
Assess the object and route before lifting. If it is bulky, awkward, heavy, or outside your ability, stop and request a team lift or proper handling equipment. Agree on a count and destination before moving.
Keep fingers clear of pinch points. Don't lift or move suspended, powered, or unfamiliar equipment unless assigned and qualified. If the route becomes blocked, stop the move safely and communicate.
Speak up early. Give the lead the location, what you observed, and whether anyone is at immediate risk. Don't cover, repair, or return damaged gear to service unless you are qualified and specifically assigned to do so. Follow the venue's incident-reporting process.