Production Process

Pre-production Period

Show performance Period

Post-production Period

Glossary of technical terms

Gobo - A gobo is a template or pattern cut into a circular plate used to create patterns of projected light.

Gel - a translucent or transparent coloured material that is used in to colour light.

Fly bars - Metal bars spanning the width of the stage which are connected to winches. Used to support lanterns and scenery that is to be flown.

Props - items used on stage during the show by the actors. They are things like cups, trays, bottles and combs that get picked up and put down during the course of the show.

Lanterns - the theatrical term for a light, used to illuminate the stage. These come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, powers and uses. 

Choreographer - a person who composes or arranges dances and/or other movements for a dramatic presentation.

Get-out - The morning after the last performance of a production when all production props, costumes and equipment are removed from the theatre and either stored or returned.

Prompt script – A version of the script that contains details of all cues, with their precise timings with respect to the action on stage. This allows the prompt to direct lighting, sound and flying effects and scene changes during a show. It also often contains blocking notes, so that the prompt is always aware of the intended positions and movements of all the actors on stage at any given time.

Rehearsal - a practice session in preparation for a public performance. 

Script - a written version of a play or other dramatic composition; used in preparing for a performance.

Costume - the clothes worn by an actor or performer.

Understudy rehearsals - Rehearsals to make sure that the show's quality is maintained after it had opened.

Backstage - The entire area during the action of the play which is not seen by the audience.

Casting - To assign an actor to a part.

Running List – The order in which things are meant to occur.