Cue Sheet
A Cue Sheet is a detailed planning document used in theater, film, television, and live performances. It's like a roadmap that lists all the technical elements (such as lighting changes, sound effects, music, or stage movements) that need to happen during a performance, and exactly when they should occur. Think of it as a precise timeline that helps coordinate everyone involved in a production. People working in performing arts often mention Cue Sheets in their resumes because creating or managing them shows they understand how to organize complex performances and coordinate multiple technical aspects of a show.
Examples in Resumes
Created and managed Cue Sheets for 20+ theatrical productions
Developed digital Cue Sheets and Show Bibles for national touring productions
Trained junior stage managers in Cue Sheet preparation and execution
Typical job title: "Stage Managers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Stage Managers
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you handle last-minute changes to a cue sheet during technical rehearsals?
Expected Answer: Look for answers that demonstrate leadership, quick thinking, and clear communication methods with all departments. Should mention systems for tracking changes and ensuring all team members are updated.
Q: Describe a situation where you had to coordinate a complex sequence of cues across multiple departments.
Expected Answer: Should show experience managing multiple technical elements, problem-solving skills, and ability to maintain calm under pressure while coordinating different teams.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What information do you include in a cue sheet and how do you organize it?
Expected Answer: Should describe essential elements like timing, departments involved, specific actions, and how they make the document clear and usable for all team members.
Q: How do you train others to follow and execute cue sheets?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate teaching ability, patience, and understanding of how to break down complex information for different skill levels.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What's your process for creating a basic cue sheet?
Expected Answer: Should show understanding of basic format, timing notation, and ability to document simple technical sequences clearly.
Q: How do you mark and track changes in a cue sheet during rehearsals?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate basic organization skills and understanding of revision tracking methods.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic cue sheet creation and formatting
- Understanding of theatrical terminology
- Basic timing and notation skills
- Following established cue sheets
Mid (2-5 years)
- Complex cue coordination
- Digital cue sheet systems
- Department coordination
- Training junior staff
Senior (5+ years)
- Advanced production management
- Multiple department oversight
- Emergency situation handling
- Production planning and scheduling
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of basic theater terminology
- Poor attention to detail in scheduling and timing
- Lack of experience with live performance coordination
- Unable to explain basic cue sheet components
Related Terms
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