How to Try-Out for Stage Crew . . .

Ridley Drama produces TWO mainstage productions each year, and the stage crew program is tied to those two shows.  Each show requires a separate audition process for stage crew members-- this is not a "join only" club, but an earned spot based on certain skill sets and a rigoruous try-out process.

​

Skillsets we are looking for in potential stage crew members include: 

​

• Strong communication: The ability to communicate clearly and calmly is critical, especially during a high-pressure show. This includes using headsets effectively, listening to direction from the stage manager, and providing clear and concise information to other crew members.

• Teamwork and collaboration: An outstanding crew works as a single unit, supporting every department, including sound, lighting, props, and costumes. They prioritize the production's collective success over individual recognition.

• Problem-solving: When technical issues inevitably arise, an excellent crew thinks quickly and creatively to troubleshoot and fix problems on the fly. They can devise efficient solutions without disrupting the show.

• Initiative and proactivity: Rather than waiting for instructions, a top-tier crew anticipates needs and addresses them before they become problems. This includes preparing equipment in advance and looking for ways to improve efficiency during transitions.

• Attention to detail: From precisely placing props to executing a cue at the exact right moment, a flawless performance depends on the crew's meticulous attention to every detail.

• Patience and resilience: During long rehearsals, tech week, and periods of waiting, crew members must remain patient. They also need resilience to bounce back and stay focused when a cue is missed or a task doesn't go as planned.

• Reliability and punctuality: A tech crew must be completely dependable. Being on time and ready to work for every rehearsal and performance is non-negotiable. 

​

While students in our program do not need to have ALL of the skills necessary for the job when they begin with us, we are looking for a particular aptitude in the following: 

​

Essential technical and practical skills:

• Technical expertise: Crew members must have a solid understanding of the technical aspects of theatre. While some specialize, a well-rounded technician understands lighting, sound, scenic, and rigging departments and how they work together.

• Safety consciousness: Knowledge and adherence to all safety procedures, including those for rigging, equipment, and personal protection, is a top priority for protecting everyone backstage and on stage.

• Physical fitness: Stage work often requires heavy lifting, climbing, and fast-paced work. Good general fitness and stamina are necessary for the physical demands of moving scenery and equipment.

• Adaptability and flexibility: Tech crews often have to work unusual hours and must be ready to adapt to unexpected changes. This flexibility is key during a show run. 

• Discretion: Backstage is often a place of high stress, with many conversations happening behind the scenes. An excellent tech crew maintains discretion and avoids gossip to foster a professional environment. 

​

**Stage crew students are responsible for the safety of both people and expensive equipment, and therefore need to be able to handle themselves indpendently, follow written and verbal directions, and have a sense of self-awareness that allows them to participate in what can be a stressful and fast transition from rehearsals to performances. On average, stage crew has only a third of the time to "learn" their responsibilities in the show that the cast does, so that plays in to how students are chosen for this group. 

​

​

Information about the program is advertsied to students in many ways, including Ms. Pena's newsletters to the community, our website, Canvas reminders and emails, posters in the great hall. Once this happens, however, it is up to the student to continue in the process, attend meetings, follow along with the announcements, etc. This is practice of the INDEPENDENCE needed to be a part of this group. 

​