What Happens During Tech Week
“Tech week” in theatre refers to the week before opening night, when all technical elements are added to rehearsals. The cast continues rehearsing while adding in technical elements, including costumes, props, microphones, lighting, sound, and more.
This week is used to work out any kinks, mishaps, or unforeseen issues BEFORE opening night. Tech week can feel like a cacophony of theatrical chaos, but ultimately results in a polished production.
PAA – Colorado reveals the must-know tech week details every performer should know.
- Rehearsals run longer: Rehearsals during tech week usually last 3-4 hours a day and look different than rehearsals up until this point.
- Sundays are for spacing the show: This day usually kicks off tech week and is the first day actors work with the set. Actors walk through every dance number to ensure they know their spots, formations, and entry points. Day one can feel really slow, we recommend bringing a quiet activity and a good attitude!
- Add mics, costumes, sets, props, lights, & sound: The technical team (aka the crew) layers in each production element one step at a time, finalizing all visual and auditory components of the show. During this phase, the crew determines how best to enhance the production through lighting, sound, props, and other technical elements. The focus is on meeting the show’s technical needs—not on the actors.
- First layer = Testing the house speakers and monitors with props
- Second layer = Putting actors in costumes with microphones
- Third layer = Adding lights and specific sound cues
- Tech week (and theatre) takes a village: Everyone plays a vital role during tech week. Attendance is required for all actors and for good reason:
- The tech team learns what each scene looks like and notes each actor’s technical needs.
- It is common to add or change elements of the show during tech week. If an actor misses even one day, it can negatively affect the show and become a safety issue. For example, the team may decide to add a big set piece that emerges from the curtain in a blackout. This would prevent actors from exiting the stage in that area. If the actor is unaware of this, it could cause injury and wreak havoc.
- Memorable bonding moments occur during tech week. Amidst the chaos, you will connect even more with your castmates and crew.
- Stay Behind the Curtain: Tech week may be the first time actors work with a curtain. Be sure to always stay behind the curtain. If you can see the audience, the audience can see you! Help carry on the magic of the show for the audience, and stay behind the curtain.
- Know your Props: Prop stands for property. During tech week, actors will be assigned props. Make sure you know which props are yours, and please do not touch other props. This prevents accidentally breaking the prop or misplacing another actor’s prop. Set yourself up for success by confirming that all of your props are on the prop table before the show.
- Set the Tape: Brightly colored tape (known as Spike Tape) maps out where set pieces go. This makes scene transitions easier.
- Respect the Microphone: Microphones are costly technology that helps the audience hear you during the show. During tech week, the crew shows actors the proper way to wear the mic to optimize their sound.
- Know your Lines: You can no longer call for lines during tech week. Actors must continue the scene, regardless of whether someone misses a line or an entrance. This is a good exercise in improvisation and a true definition of “the show must go on!”
Bottom line, major moments occur during tech week. Next time you enter tech week, refer to this helpful list and make the most of your final rehearsals!
Understanding the importance of tech week leads to the spotlight shining brighter, the actors becoming more confident, and the audience giving a standing ovation.
Check out PAA’s News & Info page for more theatre tips.
