[3/3] Touring Terminology 101: Essential Terms Every Roadie Should Know
Welcome to the final instalment of our three-part series on essential touring terminology!
In this blog, we'll dive into the last batch of crucial terms that every set carpenter and roadie should know.
These might come in handy.
The James Disclaimer: The usage of these terms can differ across the music, theatre, and film industries.
Strike Zone: An area where equipment is being dismantled or moved.
Wings: The sides of the stage, out of view of the audience.
Proscenium: The arch or frame surrounding the stage opening.
Thrust Stage: A stage that extends into the audience area.
Arena Stage: A stage surrounded by the audience on all sides.
Blackout: A sudden extinguishing of all stage lights.
Cue Sheet: A document listing all technical cues for a performance.
Gel: A colored filter placed over a light to change its color.
Light Plot: A diagram showing the placement of lights on stage.
Practical: A prop or element that works as it would in real life, such as a lamp that turns on.
Trap Door: A hidden door in the stage floor used for special effects or entrances/exits.
Pyrotechnics: Special effects involving fire or explosions.
Follow Spot Operator: A person who controls the follow spot during a performance.
Grip: A crew member responsible for moving scenery and props.
Backdrop Roller: A device used to raise and lower backdrops.
Line Set: A set of lines used to fly scenery or equipment.
Prompt Corner: The area where the stage manager typically stands to call cues.
Masking: Materials used to hide parts of the stage from the audience's view.
Traveler: A curtain that can be opened and closed horizontally.
Scrim: A fabric used to create visual effects when lit from different angles.
Upstage: The area of the stage farthest from the audience.
Downstage: The area of the stage closest to the audience.
Offstage: The areas of the stage that are not visible to the audience.
Onstage: The areas of the stage that are visible to the audience.
Dress Rehearsal: A full rehearsal with all technical elements and costumes.
Blocking: The precise staging of actors' movements on stage.
Props Table: A table where props are organized and placed for easy access during a performance.
Tech Booth: The area where the technical crew operates lighting and sound equipment.
Control Room: The room where the main controls for lighting, sound, and video are located.
Prompt Book: The script with all technical cues noted, used by the stage manager.
Light Tree: A vertical stand used to mount lighting instruments.
Reverb: An effect that simulates the natural echo of a space.
Dry Ice Machine: A device used to create low-lying fog effects.
Fog Machine: A device used to create smoke or fog effects.
Hazer: A device used to create a fine mist, enhancing light beams.
Snow Machine: A device used to create the effect of falling snow.
Gaffer: The chief electrician or lighting technician on a set.
Clapper: A device used in filmmaking to synchronize picture and sound.
Shotgun Mic: A highly directional microphone used to capture sound from a distance.
Switcher: A device used to switch between different video sources.
Thanks for reading!
That just about wraps it up. Thanks for joining me on this journey through essential touring terminology. Have a great time on the road.
