Technical Theater for Nontechnical People (Fourth Edition)

Understand every aspect of technical theater––from scenery, lighting, and sound, to props, costumes, and stage management.

Not everyone who wants to make theater is a natural engineer, visual artist, or technician. For more than two decades, Technical Theater for Nontechnical People has been the go-to resource for theater artists who need to understand the technical aspects of their craft without becoming lost in them. In this thoroughly revised fourth edition, the popular guide adds a new chapter on video production and enhances its coverage of digital audio, LED lighting, and show control systems, all explained in the same approachable style that has kept this book in the pockets of industry professionals and amateurs alike for many years. 

Every chapter has been updated with more information about the basics of theater tech, including updated tools for lighting and sound, draperies, lighting instruments, microphones, costumes, and more. This fourth edition also includes the following foundational topics for a successful production:

• Who’s who on a theatrical production team
• What is needed to know about technical theater and why
• What to look for when choosing a space for a show
• How to communicate with lighting, scenery, audio, and costume designers
• How to stage manage effectively
• How to get your show on stage, starting from just an idea to final curtain on Opening Night

Covering both traditional and digitally supported backstage environments, this book is an essential guide for working with every technical aspect of theater!