FACTSHEET PRODUCED BY CREATIVE AND CULTURAL SKILLS AND EQUITY
Theatre Sound Designer and Technician
Theatre Sound Technicians are responsible for all aspects of sound during productions, including controlling sound levels, sound reinforcement, sound effects, music and dialogue. They work closely with other members of the production team. Sound Technicians may be employed on a permanent or freelance basis by Receiving Theatres, Producing Theatres (Reps) or Touring Companies. They may also be required to Design the sound for productions. The specifics of the work vary enormously depending on the requirements of each production, company, venue etc., and the overlaps between the roles of Sound Designer and Technician are often blurred.
The work
Sound Designers work closely with Directors and with the Stage Management team, and in some cases with Performers, or Musical Directors and Musicians, to design & create the production's sound. They may suggest appropriate sound effects, music, and performance sound levels, in order to enhance the production. They research, acquire and compile appropriate effects and music, transferring these as necessary onto appropriate (generally digital) formats for playback (usually referred to as sound 'tapes'). They prepare Music and Effects sound plans, and equipment plans, which may be for their own use, or for others. This documentation outlines all sound requirements, including sound effects and music, equipment specifications re different types of microphones, loudspeakers, etc.
During technical rehearsals, the plans are developed and refined according to production requirements. The final plan dictates how sound is used wherever the show is produced, although different venues may require adaptations. Depending on the complexity of the production, Sound Technicians may be required to produce sound plans. They may need to hire in any required equipment which is not available at the venue. Depending on the size and nature of the productions and venues involved touring companies may bring their own equipment, some of which may be hired in for specific productions. In some cases, the full sound rig may be hired in, together with a Sound Operator with the expertise to work with complex equipment.
In Receiving Theatres, Sound Technicians may receive a Sound plan in advance of incoming productions. When the production arrives, they liaise with the person responsible for the sound, which may be the Sound Technician, or on smaller productions the Stage Manager, or Lighting Technician. Where there is only one performer, that person may be responsible for their own sound. Sound Technicians set up and rig the required sound equipment safely and appropriately. This may include placing radio microphones on performers, and being sensitive to their particular preferences regarding placement. Sound Technicians also work closely with other members of the Lighting and Stage Management teams so that all elements work together to enhance the production. During performances, Sound Technicians work from cue sheets, and also from spoken cues from the Stage Manager, or the Deputy Stage Manager, transmitted over headphones. They must respond accurately and promptly to all cues. On a live show this may involve making changes and adaptations during the performance, without affecting the audience's enjoyment. After the final show at a venue they help with the get out, or de-rig, ensuring that sound equipment is stored or packed, or returned to hirers, carefully and safely. In smaller theatres, Sound Technicians may also be responsible for lighting and/or Stage Management.
Typical Career Routes
The most important starting point for a career in Sound is to develop and demonstrate an interest in, and enthusiasm about, sound by exploring, experimenting and learning about audio technology and its capabilities, in many cases using the sophisticated equipment which is increasingly available at accessible prices on the high street. Sound Technicians may be graduates from relevant courses, or may have undertaken some work experience with equipment hire companies, hospital radio, etc. They may start their careers in stage management roles, or as musicians, or as roadies/technicians with bands, and progress to become Sound Designers.
Essential Knowledge and Skills
Sound Designers and Technicians must have a deep knowledge of, and sympathy with what is required, and what can be achieved in terms of sound, for any production, in any particular building. Sound Designers must know how the sound plan will work, or how it can be adapted, to preserve their original concept. Sound Designers and Sound Technicians need to be able to work effectively with members of their own team, and with all others involved in the production process. In Receiving Theatres, Sound Technicians may also work with amateur productions, which can involve acting as a 'consultant' as well as being responsible for all aspects of sound, including offering suggestions to enhance the production, and explaining what is and is not possible to achieve.
Key skills include:
- Good knowledge of audio equipment and sound technology
- Knowledge of theatre production processes
- Excellent IT skills
- The ability to adapt before and during the performance
- Good communication, interpersonal and team skills
- Patience, self-discipline and reliability
- Diplomacy and sensitivity when working with artists and crew members
- Willingness to work long and irregular hours
- Logical and fast approach to problem solving
- A thorough knowledge of the relevant Health and Safety requirements and legislation, and the ability to carry out risk assessments
- The ability to concentrate for long periods of time and to pay attention to detail
- Knowledge of management and licensing of radio transmission systems
Training and Qualifications
Although there are no formal entry requirements for working in Theatre Sound, a demonstrable interest in sound, and some understanding of its physical properties, is essential. Experience in other roles in theatre, or in the music industry, either creatively or technically , provide a useful basis for these roles. Courses, such as that run by Mountview College, are available throughout the UK from HND to degree level in Sound Technology, Audio Engineering, Acoustics and Music Recording. As Theatre Sound Designers and Technicians learn the majority of their practical skills through hands on experience, continual professional development is vital, as theatre and sound technology and working practices are continually changing.
Where to go for more information
Equity is the trade union representing creative team members and performers across the whole spectrum of arts and entertainment, and offers representation, specialist knowledge and advice for its members and student members on work in Theatre and other Live Performance. They negotiate working terms and conditions for theatre Designers. T: 020 7379 6000. www.equity.org.uk
The Association of British Theatre Technicians, ABTT, provides information concerning theatre planning, Health and Safety, stage machinery, lighting and sound equipment, acoustic, scenery construction, stage management and all aspects of presentation. www.abtt.org.uk Tel: 0207 242 9200.
The Broadcasting and Entertainment Trade Union BECTU offers advice about employment terms and rights and useful information on health and safety; www.bectu.org.uk