Theatrical technician
A theatrical technician, also known as a theatrical tech, theatre technician, or theatre tech is a person who operates technical equipment and systems in the performing arts and entertainment industry. In contrast to performers, this broad category contains all "unseen" theatrical personnel who practice stagecraft and are responsible for the logistic and production-related aspects of a performance including designers, operators, and supervisors. Typical positions Theatrical responsibilities taken by technicians include: Set construction and theatrical carpentry Sound system configuration and operation Lighting design and light board operation, Followspot operation, hanging and maintenance of stage lighting instruments as well as various other electrical jobs Flying of scenery and occasionally even actors by fly men Rigging of moveable and stationary set pieces by riggers Stage management Costume and prop management Operation of Special effects including fog machines and pyrotechnics A single theatrical technician may regularly do one or more of the above jobs during load in, load outs (strike), rehearsal and performance. Performance technicians are generally divided between those backstage (stagehands, Stage Managers) and those in a control room (lighting and audio technicians). During load in and load out additional crew members may be needed due to the amount of work required to