Tech Week

Term from Performing Arts industry explained for recruiters

Tech Week, also known as Technical Week or Production Week, is the final period of rehearsals before a show opens where all the technical elements come together. This is when lighting, sound, costumes, sets, and performers all work together for the first time. It's a crucial phase in theater, dance, and live performance production where crews test equipment, fix problems, and run through the entire show multiple times. Think of it as the 'dress rehearsal' period that ensures everything runs smoothly on opening night.

Examples in Resumes

Managed Tech Week for 5 major productions at City Theater

Successfully coordinated 20+ crew members during Technical Week preparations

Led Tech Week scheduling and problem-solving for annual dance showcase

Typical job title: "Technical Directors"

Also try searching for:

Stage Manager Production Manager Technical Coordinator Theater Technician Production Coordinator Technical Director Show Director

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you handle multiple technical emergencies during Tech Week?

Expected Answer: Strong answers should include examples of prioritization, delegation, having backup plans, and maintaining calm under pressure while solving multiple issues simultaneously.

Q: How do you manage a Tech Week schedule when you're behind on preparations?

Expected Answer: Should discuss strategies for adjusting schedules, efficient use of time, proper resource allocation, and communication with all departments to ensure essential elements are covered.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you coordinate different departments during Tech Week?

Expected Answer: Should explain communication methods, scheduling techniques, and how to manage different teams like lighting, sound, and costumes working together effectively.

Q: What's your process for documenting changes during Tech Week?

Expected Answer: Should describe systems for tracking and communicating changes to cues, blocking, or technical elements, and ensuring all team members stay updated.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the key components of Tech Week?

Expected Answer: Should be able to list basic elements like lighting focus, sound checks, costume fittings, and run-throughs, showing understanding of the basic flow of technical rehearsals.

Q: How do you prepare for Tech Week?

Expected Answer: Should mention creating checklists, reviewing scripts/plans, checking equipment, and understanding basic safety procedures.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic understanding of technical rehearsal process
  • Ability to follow cue sheets and technical directions
  • Basic safety awareness
  • Equipment setup and checking

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Coordinating multiple technical elements
  • Problem-solving during live rehearsals
  • Schedule management
  • Team coordination

Senior (5+ years)

  • Overall production management
  • Budget control
  • Crisis management
  • Department coordination and leadership

Red Flags to Watch For

  • Poor time management skills
  • Lack of basic safety knowledge
  • Unable to work under pressure
  • Poor communication skills
  • No experience with live performances