16 Stage Crew Skills for Your Career and Resume

Working as part of a stage crew requires a variety of skills, from manual labor to creative problem solving. Stage crew members are responsible for setting up and tearing down stages for events like concerts, plays and other performances. They also work during the event to make sure everything runs smoothly. If you’re interested in a career in stage crew, learning about the necessary skills can help you get started.

Sound Engineering

Sound engineering is the ability to use audio equipment and software to mix sound for a performance. This skill can be useful in stage crew because it allows you to ensure that performers’ voices are heard by audience members. Sound engineers also use microphones, speakers and other equipment to create an enjoyable listening experience for audiences.

Lighting Design

Lighting design is the process of creating and implementing lighting for a performance. This includes determining what type of light fixtures to use, where they should be placed and how much power each fixture requires. Lighting designers also determine how different types of lights can affect an audience’s perception of a scene or set. For example, if a stage has a large window behind it, a lighting designer may decide to place several spotlights on the ceiling above the stage so that the audience focuses more attention on the actors than the natural sunlight coming through the window.

Show Calling

Show calling is the ability to read a script and understand what actions should happen next. This skill can help stage crew members know when they need to change props, move scenery or make other adjustments during a performance. It also helps them communicate with actors about their cues so everyone stays on track. Show calling requires attention to detail and an ability to multitask as you may be reading from one script while watching another actor’s movements.

Cue Calling

Cue calling is the ability to identify when a specific action or event should occur during a performance. For example, if an actor needs to enter stage right at a certain time, you can call out “stage right” so that they know to move in that direction. Cue calling also helps ensure that all actions and events happen as planned, which can help keep productions running smoothly.

Safety Procedures

Safety procedures are the rules and regulations that stage crew members follow to ensure their own safety as well as the safety of others. For example, if a member of the stage crew notices a potential hazard, they may report it to their supervisor so that the necessary precautions can be taken. Safety procedures also include knowing how to handle emergency situations such as fires or medical emergencies.

Leadership

Leadership skills are important for stage crew members because they often supervise other crew members. They also need to be able to lead by example and motivate their team to work hard and achieve goals. Leadership skills can help you take charge of a production, instruct others on how to do their job and encourage your team to stay focused and have fun.

Musical Direction

Stage crew members often work with musicians and other stage performers to ensure that performances run smoothly. Having musical direction skills can help you communicate effectively with these individuals, which may allow you to resolve issues before they arise. You can also use your musical direction skills when planning events like concerts or festivals, where you may need to coordinate the schedules of multiple artists.

Flexibility

Flexibility is the ability to adapt to changing circumstances. Stage crew members need flexibility because their work environment can change quickly and often. For example, if a performer needs to use a different microphone or instrument than originally planned, stage crew members must be able to accommodate these changes. Flexibility also helps stage crew members adjust to unexpected challenges that may arise during performances.

Organization

Organization is the ability to keep track of and find important information. Stage crew members need organizational skills to ensure they have all the tools needed for a performance, such as props, costumes and set pieces. They also use organization when tracking their own responsibilities during each production. For example, stage crew members may be responsible for maintaining the electrical equipment or keeping track of prop inventory.

Technical Direction

Stage crew members need to be able to provide technical direction for the production they’re working on. This means that you can explain how a piece of equipment works and what it’s used for, as well as instruct others on how to operate it properly. It also means being able to give clear instructions about how to set up or tear down various pieces of equipment.

Patience

Stage crew members often work long hours and have to adapt to changing circumstances. They need patience to deal with unexpected challenges, such as equipment failure or a sudden change in weather that affects outdoor performances. Patience also helps stage crew members stay calm when they encounter stressful situations, which can help them make better decisions and perform their duties more effectively.

Set Construction

Set construction is the ability to build and deconstruct sets for a production. This skill can be useful in stage crew because it allows you to create the set that your team needs to operate effectively. For example, if you’re working on a play with multiple scenes, you may need to build several different sets. Having this skill can allow you to work more efficiently and save time by building all of the necessary sets at once.

Stage Management

Stage management is the ability to oversee and direct a production. This includes scheduling, budgeting, hiring personnel and managing the overall flow of the show. Stage managers are responsible for ensuring that all aspects of the production run smoothly. They also ensure that everyone on the crew has what they need to do their job effectively.

Physical Stamina

Stage crew members often work long hours and may be on their feet for most of the day. Having physical stamina allows you to stay active throughout your shift, which can help prevent fatigue and injury. Physical stamina also helps you complete tasks quickly so that you can take breaks or move onto other projects.

Props Management

Props management is the ability to handle props on stage. This includes knowing where props are, how they’re used and what props may be needed for a production. Stage crew members with strong prop management skills can help ensure that productions run smoothly. For example, if an actor forgets their prop, a stage crew member with good prop management skills can find it quickly.

Creativity

Creativity is the ability to think of new ideas and solutions. Stage crew members use creativity when devising ways to improve their work or solve problems. For example, if a piece of equipment isn’t working properly, a stage crew member with creativity might come up with an alternative solution that doesn’t require using the original equipment.

How Can I Learn These Stage Crew Skills?

There are a few ways that you can learn the necessary skills for stage crew. You can take classes at a local community college or online. You can also find many books on the subject. You can also look for online tutorials. Finally, you can shadow or work with a professional stage crew to learn the ropes.