We’re back for another round of stage management tips from the pros! Last time, Amber White and Tim Semon shared their tips for the rehearsal room. Now we’re tackling one of the most challenging parts of a rehearsal process: the dreaded TECH WEEK.

It’s the heart-pounding, adrenaline-fueled sprint to the finish line for any theatrical production. The lights haven’t been programmed, the actors are still finding their light, and the pressure is on to iron out every crease before opening night.

But fear not, intrepid stage managers! Broadway veterans Amber White and Tim Semon, with over 22 Broadway shows under their belts (not counting Off-Broadway productions or national tours), are here to share more of their battle-tested wisdom. Here are their top 5 tips to help you navigate tech week with confidence and conquer the chaos.

1. Build your runsheets effectively

Your runsheets are the central nervous system of your show. From your lighting technicians to the wardrobe department, it will track what your crew needs to do and when – whether it’s moving a set piece, executing a costume change, or paging a curtain. Every show is unique, with some requiring more frequent costume changes or elaborate scene transitions. But Broadway veteran Amber White emphasizes the importance of planning everything during rehearsals leading up to tech week. “The more information you know,” she says, “the better and smoother that tech process is gonna be.”

Bonus tip: If you haven’t already, check out our FREE downloadable templates for runsheets, as well as daily or weekly schedules, all for stage managers!

2. Touch base with all of your designers

As the stage manager, you’re the tech week maestro, but you can’t conduct the orchestra alone. Each designer (lighting, sound, costumes, etc.) will have their own unique way of tracking cues. Some might arrive with everything prepped, while others build them during tech week. Don’t get caught off guard! Schedule regular check-ins with each designer to understand their preferred workflow and how they communicate cues. This proactive approach will ensure a smooth and surprise-free tech week for everyone.

3. Master headset etiquette

Tech week throws a communication curveball – the headset becomes your lifeline. To avoid a chaotic jumble of voices, leverage the power of department channels! Set up dedicated channels for lighting, wardrobe, props, and other departments. Keeping the airwaves organized ensures everyone stays on the same page and tech week runs smoothly with clear, focused communication. And of course, Tim suggests to always be mindful of when your mic is on!

4. Embrace the jitters

As Amber perfectly states, “Go into a first performance with a state of a little bit of nerves, because it’s [your] first time too in front of an audience, just like everybody else who is doing the show.” Everyone is on high alert in the lead up to opening night, and even well into the first performance—but those pre-show jitters are a natural part of the excitement and a sign you care deeply. That’s just your body preparing you to deliver a stellar performance!

5. Expect the unexpected and be prepared to adapt

Tech week is your chance to iron out the wrinkles before the curtain rises. Expect hiccups – missed cues, technical glitches, set mishaps. But don’t let them faze you! Remember that this is your training ground for on-the-fly adjustments, and every bump in the road prepares you for anything opening night throws your way. “If the show needs to stop, it’s okay. [You] can do it. And [you] know how to do it. And if [you] can keep going, [you] will.”

So you’ve absorbed the wisdom of Broadway veterans and now you’re armed to conquer rehearsal and tech week! Remember: even the most seasoned stage managers face challenges, but with clear communication, a well-informed run sheet, and a deep breath, you can help transform tech week from a frantic scramble into a well-oiled machine.

Bonus: Want to see the whole conversation with Amber and Tim? Watch the full panel here and get the insight directly from the pros.