Tech Table
A Tech Table is a dedicated workspace set up in the theater audience area during technical rehearsals. It's like a command center where the stage manager, director, designers, and technical team members work together to coordinate all the elements of a show. Think of it as a temporary office in the theater where people can see the stage clearly while working with their computers, scripts, and communication equipment. The term might appear in job descriptions as "tech table management" or "running tech from FOH (Front of House)".
Examples in Resumes
Managed Tech Table operations for 12 Broadway-style productions
Coordinated lighting and sound cues from the Tech Table during technical rehearsals
Supervised Technical Table setup and communication systems for major theatrical productions
Typical job title: "Stage Managers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Stage Managers
Professional Organizations
Job Resources
Online Communities
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you manage multiple departments and personalities at the tech table during a complex technical rehearsal?
Expected Answer: Look for answers that demonstrate leadership skills, conflict resolution, and the ability to maintain clear communication while keeping the rehearsal process moving forward efficiently.
Q: Describe a time when you had to solve a major technical crisis during tech rehearsals.
Expected Answer: The candidate should share experience in quick problem-solving, maintaining calm under pressure, and coordinating with various departments to find solutions while keeping the production on schedule.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What systems do you use to organize paperwork and communications at the tech table?
Expected Answer: Should discuss experience with production paperwork, cue sheets, and communication protocols, showing ability to keep information organized and accessible to all necessary team members.
Q: How do you coordinate between different departments during technical rehearsals?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of interdepartmental communication, timing of technical elements, and ability to maintain smooth workflow between various production areas.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What equipment would you expect to find at a basic tech table setup?
Expected Answer: Should be able to list basic items like headset system, laptop, prompt book, show control equipment, and explain their basic functions.
Q: How do you maintain focus during long technical rehearsals?
Expected Answer: Should show understanding of basic time management, attention to detail, and ability to stay alert during extended rehearsal periods.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic technical rehearsal protocols
- Communication system operation
- Production paperwork management
- Basic cue calling
Mid (2-5 years)
- Advanced rehearsal coordination
- Department supervision
- Problem-solving during tech
- Show control systems operation
Senior (5+ years)
- Full production oversight
- Technical rehearsal leadership
- Crisis management
- Team supervision and training
Red Flags to Watch For
- Poor communication skills
- Lack of basic technical theater knowledge
- Inability to multitask
- No experience with production paperwork
- Poor time management skills
