Student Tech Crew

In theatre, the tech crew, also known as the technical crew, is the team responsible for all the behind-the-scenes elements of a production, including lighting, sound, and working/setting up mics and mic packs. They ensure the show runs smoothly by managing the technical aspects of the production, working closely with the director and stage manager

Top Hat Theatrics Tech Crew Roles:

Assistant Lighting Designer (Design the lighting and setup for a show. MUST have a good understanding of the given show being performed)

Assistant Sound Board Operator (Assist in setting up Mics, Mic Packs, working Mic soundboard during shows, and pack up of Mic Packs once show is over)

Assistant QLab / Music Operator (Plays Music, Queues, and any other sound effects for a given show)

ALL ROLES FOR Lighting, Sound, and Mics ARE DEFINED AS “TECH CREW” ROLES. Staff will speak with parent/student regarding what their specific interests are in the above roles and what experience they have. Top Hat Staff will provide duties/responsibilities to ensure success of the chosen role.

What is Top Hat looking for when picking Tech Crew Members?
1. Critical thinkers. Being able to make quick decisions on the spot.
2. Tech savvy is highly recommended. Someone who loves to work with sound and lighting!
3. A note taker! Being able to record all things
4. Able to handle high stress environments. Specifically during theatre tech week as this where you are needed most!
5. You are able to understand and take direction by multiple people including your Stage Manager and Tech Crew Adults.
6. Communicate! A student who is willing to speak up, work with other students, and not afraid to be heard!
7. Prepare, someone who takes the time at home to read the script and understand the story of any show Top Hat Theatrics produces!

What Students develop from being an Assistant Stage Manager:

  1. Leadership and Confidence – Growing your voice and being comfortable with speaking to a group of people, most often in this case a group of people your own age and at times adults during production meetings and tech week.
  2. Critical Thinking and Problem Solving – Technical issues can and will occur, it is never guaranteed all mics will work perfectly, that one light on the stage just isn’t, and with these challenges will provide the student opportunities to problem and grow their ability in thinking through solutions and applying them. Your solutions help the show!
  3. Communication Skills – Being in the hot seat of a tech role can be demanding as you’re actively working while a show is going on! Being able to communicate timely is valuable skill outside of theatre!
  4. Self Advocacy – We would not be where we are as Top Hat if we did not actively speak up for ourselves and vocalize the needs of the show in order for it to be a successful one.
  5. Stress Management – Being in tech crew is being in the moment and following along with the show as its going on. Situations may occur and overtime you will grow to understand how stress is only a temporary feeling that can be conquered!

Some questions we get most often:

Do I show up for every rehearsal?

Here are the required days you are to attend:

  1. All Production Meetings (Meetings are held once a month)
  2. All Designer Runs (Last 4 Rehearsals before Tech we’d ask for you to come in)
  3. All Tech Days (Mandatory)
  4. Performance Days (Mandatory)
Will I be in the show as a cast member and Tech Member?

No, due to the demands of Tech Crew being in the booth it would not be possible.

Is there a cost for becoming a Asst Stage Manager?

A one time $300.00 fee is charged for the cost of joining the Tech Crew PER show.

Ok, I’ve been an Assistant in Tech Crew for a few shows, when I do get to handle the soundboard, mics, or lighting on my own?

In an effort to grow a strong foundation in your knowledge of tech it is required that you have at least 2 years of experience in volunteering as a Tech Crew member before moving on to an official role with little to no supervision. This will also be determined by a review of the Top Hat Staff from your previous Tech Crew performances during past shows.



On the form below, please select “Tech Crew” as the role.