Technical Rider
A Technical Rider is a detailed document that lists all the equipment, setup requirements, and specifications needed for a performance or production. In ballet and other performing arts, it serves as a guide that tells theaters and venues exactly what the performing company needs to put on their show successfully. Think of it as a comprehensive checklist that covers everything from lighting and sound requirements to stage dimensions and dressing room needs. This document helps both the performing company and the venue ensure that all necessary technical elements are in place for a successful performance.
Examples in Resumes
Created and managed Technical Rider specifications for international ballet tours
Updated Technical Specifications to align with new production requirements
Negotiated Tech Rider requirements with multiple venue managers
Developed comprehensive Production Rider documentation for touring performances
Typical job title: "Technical Directors"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Technical Directors
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
- • ArtsJob
- • OffStageJobs
- • Playbill Jobs
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you handle conflicts between a touring company's technical rider requirements and a venue's limitations?
Expected Answer: A senior technical director should discuss negotiation strategies, creative problem-solving, and experience in finding alternative solutions while maintaining show quality. They should mention budget considerations and communication with both parties.
Q: What process do you use to create and update technical riders for multiple productions?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of organizing complex requirements, standardizing documentation, considering various venue types, and maintaining clear communication channels with production teams and venues.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you ensure all departments understand and follow technical rider requirements?
Expected Answer: Should explain methods for breaking down technical requirements by department, conducting briefings, creating checklists, and maintaining open communication channels with all team members.
Q: What key elements do you include in a technical rider for a touring production?
Expected Answer: Should list major components like stage dimensions, lighting needs, sound requirements, backstage facilities, and schedule requirements, while explaining why each is important.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is the purpose of a technical rider?
Expected Answer: Should explain that it's a document listing all technical requirements for a performance, helping venues prepare properly for incoming shows and ensuring successful productions.
Q: How do you organize technical information from different departments into a rider?
Expected Answer: Should describe basic document organization, gathering information from various teams, and creating clear, readable formats for sharing with venues.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of technical theater terminology
- Reading and interpreting technical riders
- Basic knowledge of theater equipment
- Understanding of production schedules
Mid (2-5 years)
- Creating and modifying technical riders
- Coordinating between departments
- Problem-solving technical challenges
- Managing venue relationships
Senior (5+ years)
- Developing comprehensive technical documentation
- Budget management and negotiation
- Team leadership and project management
- International touring experience
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of basic theater terminology
- Lack of experience with live performances
- Poor communication skills
- No understanding of different venue types and their limitations
- Unable to read technical drawings or floor plans
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