We are different from stage schools in that we are not a commercial organisation. Our funding comes from ticket sales, running our own bar, sponsorship and donations. Acting members pay a small subscription to help cover the cost of rehearsal rooms.

The technical crew tend to work as one big team although it has three main areas of operation: stage operations, sound and lighting. We try to find places for everyone in their particular area of interest where possible, but as the whole process depends on the close interaction of the different areas, all knowledge gained will be good experience for the future.

Technical Crew

Stage operations divides into three main sections: stage management, props and stage crew, although again they all interact.

The stage management look after the organisation of the set, props and cueing the whole show - which would include sound, lighting, set, props, music and the actors. This also includes reading in cues and lines at rehearsals.

Props are responsible for sourcing and organising the props, including supporting the cast. The cast are responsible for the care of their own personal props.

The stage crew put the set together during the "get in", move it as required during the show and then take it down at the end of the "run". The sets are often hired in, but there is generally some set building and painting required.

The sound department install a sound system to suit the production - typically subtly amplifying the singing and dialogue using radio mics and fixed mics, and create and play in sound effects where required. They also provide communications backstage, particularly so that the stage management can "cue" the crew during the show.

The lighting department create a lighting design to complement the set and the action. This involves rigging theatre luminaires and programming a lighting desk. Follow spots are often used to highlight the actors. They are manually operated and cued by the stage management.

It may well be that at particular times during a show a department has a particular complex set of operations to carry out which may need help from members of other departments so there can be a fair bit of cross-over between departments

As well as the experience of existing crew members there is also expert help and guidance available.

There are also opportunities to help out with making and fitting costumes, hair and make-up.

Timescales

Once the casting is complete and rehearsals are up and running the Tech team start to meet and start working towards the show week. Meetings normally take place on Sundays starting at 6.30pm and last for around an hour, unless there is a lot to discuss. The different departments may well carry on on their own, with more detailed planning where required. Meetings are initially every 2-3 weeks and may increase to every week nearer the show.

We normally have the Playhouse from the Wednesday before show week. On the Wednesday and Thursday evenings before the show week there are stage rehearsals. The get in starts on the Friday night and needs to be complete by Sunday lunchtime. On Sunday afternoon there is a band call with principal cast members and a technical rehearsal in costume in the evening. After Sunday afternoon we do not have the full orchestra until the preview night. There is a full dress rehearsal on the Monday night and a preview night on the Tuesday, followed by public shows through until Saturday, which also has a matinée

Some people find it difficult to find the time to do the whole show. Some only come in for the rig and the de-rig Others do the whole run of the show. If you are involved in the show itself you do need to be around for the stage rehearsals. Commitment and reliability are required.

EYT is very much about producing the best show we can - while still having a bit of fun. As well as being a social activity the aim is for those involved to get pleasure and a sense of pride and achievement from doing something to the best of their ability while maintaining a sense of humour.

So whatever your abilities or experience, we could always do with a hand with any of our productions. So if you are interested in being in the crew, please contact the Technical Director at:- eytk01@googlemail.com