Theatre Sound Technician

Also known as:

Sound Technician, Theatre

Introduction

Theatre sound technicians set up, position and operate sound equipment for theatrical productions. Operating sound systems usually takes place from behind a console.

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Work Activities

In live theatre shows, sound equipment is used to amplify and balance the voices and musical instruments of the actors, singers and musicians. It is also used to provide sound effects and background music. Theatre sound technicians set up and operate this equipment. This could involve:
• choosing the most appropriate equipment and the best positions
• rigging microphones and loudspeakers in appropriate places
• connecting cables to the sound console or mixing desk.

When they are working on a play, sound technicians may obtain, or record and edit, suitable sound effects and background music. They can then prepare a sound plot with cues for when each is to be played during the show. They balance the sound and adjust the equipment during a technical rehearsal with the performers and director.

For some shows, the performers need to have individual radio microphones. Sound technicians fit the microphones before each performance and tell the performers how to use them. During performances, sound technicians may operate the sound console to switch between microphones or adjust levels between them to achieve the right effect.

In touring productions, sound technicians set up the equipment and test it before operating it. The equipment may need to be taken down over short periods, including one-night performances. Loading and unloading may be involved. Sound technicians are also responsible for cleaning, maintaining and repairing equipment.

Where there is no sound designer on a production, the technician may design the sound, taking part in discussions with the producer and director.

Sound technicians based in permanent theatres spend most of their time in the theatre building. They may operate shows from a control area at the back of the stalls or in a glass-fronted control box. They may make occasional visits to suppliers of equipment.

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Personal Qualities and Skills

Good balanced hearing is essential. You must have a technical knowledge of electricity and electronics, and of the capabilities of different types of sound equipment.

You should be physically fit and have good hand skills. You will need to pay attention to detail and understand safety requirements. Working at heights on ladders and scaffold towers may be involved.

You need to fit into a team, be able to cope with time pressure, and also react quickly and creatively to problems that may arise. Your colour vision may be tested.

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Pay and Opportunities

Salaries for theatre sound technicians vary depending on the area of theatre they work in, whether they are employed or self-employed, and their role and responsibility.

The pay rates given below are approximate.

Theatre technicians earn in the range of £14,000 - £17,000 a year, rising to £21,500 - £27,500 and higher earnings are possible.

Theatre sound technicians work a basic 40-hour week. However, early starts, late finishes, weekend work and working on public holidays, may all be required.

Employment, often on a freelance basis, is found with theatre companies throughout the UK, and in touring theatre. Other employers include event and exhibition promoters (both indoor and outdoor).

New entrants come from a range of backgrounds, including those with a relevant degree, diploma, or other national award.

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Adult Opportunities

It is now illegal for any organisation to set age limits for entry to employment, education or training, unless they can show there is a real need to have these limits.

Late entrants are often qualified and/or have skills and abilities gained within a related area in the theatre, such as electrical/lighting work or stage management. Others may have relevant experience in the music recording industry, in studio work or electronics.

A previous background as a 'gofer' or runner, in theatre or the broadcast media, is useful. Working as a 'roadie' in the music industry is also a useful entry route into technician work.

Some colleges relax entry requirements for applicants with relevant experience, whether paid or unpaid.

• 41% of people in occupations such as theatre sound are self-employed.
• 19% work part-time.
• 8% have flexible hours.
• 5% of employees work on a temporary basis.

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