A theatrical deck crew member is responsible for the physical movement of set pieces on stage during a performance, including changing scenery between scenes by pushing, pulling, and positioning set elements backstage, essentially ensuring smooth transitions between scenes by following cues from the stage manager; they are primarily based on the "deck" (the stage floor) and work closely with the fly crew to manage elements that are flown in and out.
Props Head is responsbile for all of the properties (props) required for the show. They manage and organize the layout and distribution of props for the actors to find, usually tracking the items on and offstage, or preseting large items like furniture in the wings.
A theatrical fly crew member, also called a "flyman" or "flyperson," is responsible for operating the fly system in a theater, which involves raising, lowering, and positioning scenery, curtains, and other stage elements during a production by manipulating ropes, pulleys, and counterweights, ensuring the safe and smooth execution of scene changes while maintaining clear communication with the stage management team.
SBO or Sound Op, for short, is responsible for:
- Executing sound and/or video cues during the show, as called by the Stage Manager
- Make sure all headsets are working properly
- Turning on/off the sound (and sometimes video) system(s)
A theatrical sound A1, also known as the "Front of House" (FOH) audio engineer, is primarily responsible for the overall sound design and mixing of a live theatre production, overseeing all aspects of audio equipment setup, operation, and adjustments during rehearsals and performances, working closely with the sound designer and stage manager to ensure the audio quality meets the artistic vision of the show.
An A2 is a stagehand who is responsible for the upkeep, acquisition, and use of microphones, backstage monitors, communication systems, and the audio system.
A light board operator, also known as a Light Op or Board Op, runs the lighting for a production. They are responsible for:
- Executing light cues as called by the Stage Manager
- Turn on and off dimmers to power the stage lighting system
- Check all lights during the preshow check, communicate any issues with the Stage Manager and Production Electrician, and work with the Production Electrician to fix these issues.
A follow spot operator is responsible for manually controlling a specialized spotlight, called a "follow spot," to precisely illuminate performers on stage during a performance by tracking their movements, adjusting the light's intensity, beam size, and color to highlight key moments and actors throughout the show, often working closely with the lighting board operator and stage manager to execute lighting cues; they typically need excellent hand-eye coordination, focus, and the ability to react quickly to changes on stage.
A supertitle board operator, also known as captions op, runs the supertitles for a production. This allows the audience to read what is being said or sung in a theatrical production.
A theatrical wardrobe crew member is responsible for the care and maintenance of costumes during a production, assisting actors with dressing and quick changes backstage, ensuring costumes are ready for performances by prepping, repairing, and cleaning them, and generally overseeing the smooth operation of the wardrobe department under the direction of the wardrobe supervisor.
Contact Jenna Wadleigh (jenna.wadleigh@colorado.edu) for more information!