Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Cue Stack • Fixture Focus • Patch Panel

GrandMA

Term from Theatrical Lighting industry explained for recruiters

GrandMA is a widely respected lighting control system used in theaters, concerts, and live events. Think of it as the command center that controls all the stage lights and special effects. It's like a highly advanced remote control that lets lighting designers and operators manage complex light shows. The system comes in different versions (like GrandMA2 and GrandMA3), but they're all made by the same company, MA Lighting. When someone mentions GrandMA on their resume, they're talking about their ability to program and run professional lighting systems for shows and events.

Examples in Resumes

Programmed complex lighting sequences using GrandMA for Broadway-style productions

Operated GrandMA2 console for national touring concerts

Led technical team training sessions on GrandMA3 programming

Designed and executed light shows using GrandMA systems for major festivals

Typical job title: "Lighting Programmers"

Also try searching for:

Lighting Console Programmer Lighting Designer Lighting Director Show Programmer Lighting Board Operator Lighting Technician Production Electrician

Where to Find Lighting Programmers

Online Communities

Professional Organizations

Job Resources

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you approach programming a complex Broadway show with multiple cue lists?

Expected Answer: A senior programmer should explain organizing cues into different lists for scenes, managing backups, working with designers, and coordinating with stage management. They should mention tracking vs. cue-only programming and show experience with complex shows.

Q: How do you train new operators on GrandMA systems?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate teaching experience, ability to break down complex concepts, and knowledge of creating show files that others can operate. Should mention documentation and hands-on training approaches.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What's your process for backing up show files and handling technical problems during a show?

Expected Answer: Should discuss regular backup procedures, troubleshooting methods, and having backup plans ready. Should mention experience with live show problem-solving.

Q: How do you organize your programming workflow for a new show?

Expected Answer: Should explain setting up groups, presets, and basic programming structure. Should demonstrate understanding of efficient programming practices.

Junior Level Questions

Q: Can you explain the basic layout of a GrandMA console?

Expected Answer: Should be able to identify main sections like playback faders, command line, and programming keys. Basic understanding of how to access different menus and functions.

Q: What's the difference between a cue and a sequence?

Expected Answer: Should explain that cues are individual lighting states while sequences are collections of cues, showing basic understanding of show programming concepts.