The Backstage Handbook: A Must-Have Illustrated Almanac of Technical Information for Theater Professionals
If you’re a theater professional or aspiring to be one, The Backstage Handbook is a must-have reference book in your arsenal. This illustrated almanac is chock-full of technical information that theater workers need to know.
Context and Curiosity
Every production is unique, and theater professionals face different challenges every day. But there are some technical aspects that all productions share. These include lighting, sound, rigging, and props. How can a worker learn the basics of these areas while also delving deep into the details? The answer is The Backstage Handbook.
The Content
The Backstage Handbook is a guidebook for theater professionals. It’s organized into twelve chapters, each covering a different aspect of theater production. The chapters are well-researched, with information that is verified and up-to-date.
Chapter 1: Safety
Safety is paramount in any workplace, and the theater is no exception. This chapter of The Backstage Handbook explains how to work safely in a theater environment. It covers topics like electrical safety, fire safety, and safe working practices.
Chapter 2: Scenic Design
This chapter covers everything that theater workers need to know about scenic design. It explains how to build and paint scenery, as well as how to create special effects.
Chapter 3: Stage Properties
Stage properties are an important part of any production, and this chapter explains how to create them. It covers topics like prop construction, prop maintenance, and prop storage.
Chapter 4: Lighting
Lighting is essential in setting the atmosphere for any production. This chapter explains how to set up lighting equipment, create lighting cues, and use lighting to enhance the performance.
Chapter 5: Sound
Sound is just as important as lighting in creating a immersive theater experience. This chapter explains the basics of sound design, including setting up equipment, capturing sound effects, and mixing audio.
Chapter 6: Rigging
Rigging is used to suspend scenery, props, and even performers above the stage. This chapter explains how to work safely with rigging equipment and how to suspend loads securely.
Chapter 7: Stage Management
Stage management is the backbone of any theater production. This chapter covers the essential tasks that a stage manager must perform, including scheduling rehearsals, coordinating with other departments, and calling cues during the performance.
Chapter 8: Costume Design
Costume design is a central aspect of any production, and this chapter explains how to create costumes that fit the characters and the style of the production. It covers topics like fabric selection, costume construction, and costume maintenance.
Chapter 9: Makeup and Wigs
Makeup and wigs are essential to creating the appearance of the performers on stage. This chapter explains how to apply makeup, style wigs, and maintain both to ensure they look good night after night.
Chapter 10: Stage Combat
Some productions require realistic fight scenes, and this chapter explains how to create them safely. It covers basic stage combat techniques and how to prepare performers for these scenes.
Chapter 11: Projections and Video
Projections and video are increasingly used in modern theater productions, and this chapter explains how to incorporate them into a performance. It covers basic techniques for creating and projecting video, as well as maintenance of equipment.
Chapter 12: Resources
This final chapter of The Backstage Handbook provides a wealth of useful resources for theater professionals. It includes a glossary of terms, conversion charts, and contact information for theater companies and suppliers.
Key Takeaways
The Backstage Handbook is an essential guidebook for theater professionals. It covers a broad range of topics, from safety to scenic design, and provides well-researched and verified information that workers can rely on.
Conclusion
If you’re serious about working in the theater industry, The Backstage Handbook is a must-have book. It’s a comprehensive reference guide that covers the essential technical information theater professionals need to know.
