Lighting Assistant
A Lighting Assistant may perform the function of Lighting
Operator for some performances but in addition he will assist the
Lighting Designer in setting the lights.
Sound Design
The Sound Designer is responsible for the pre-recorded music
or
other sounds played during the performance. Music, covering
scene transitions and as a background to some scenes, is used to
enhance the mood or feeling of the play. The Sound Designer, in
consultation with the Director, searches for and selects the
appropriate recordings, if not actually composing them. He then
transcribes them onto the theatre’s sound equipment and arranges
them in a sequential program. Ideally, this program should be
designed so that a Sound Assistant can run it.
Sound Assistant
A Sound Assistant has sufficient understanding of the sound
system to be able to run the sound for a performance. This may
require more than just knowing how to hit the “go” button on
cue. Sometimes levels have to be adjusted “on the fly” to
accommodate noisier audiences. Timing of cues may need to be
adjusted to allow for changes in pace.
Continuity (Prompter)
A Prompter has the onerous and often boring task of sitting
offstage
and giving a line if an actor forgets it. This can be quite a challenge
if the actors have skipped a speech or even a scene. Actors can
usually get themselves out of these difficulties but they appreciate
the prompter being there as a security blanket. Prompts are rarely
needed during most performances but the real value of the
prompter is during rehearsals. Amateur actors rarely have enough
time to learn their lines outside rehearsals. The prompter can be
a great help to actors struggling for lines. She learns to judge when
a particular actor needs a prompt or whether to let him struggle
more. Actors indicate that they need a prompt by saying “Line”
or “Yes” or sometimes “Shit!” Patience and a thick skin are often
required but a tactful prompter can really help get the play up to
speed.
