Technical Production Checklist
A department-by-department technical checklist for concert and event production — audio, lighting, video, staging, rigging, power, and communications. This checklist covers the technical requirements for each department and the documentation that ties them together.
Audio Technical Requirements
PA system specification (main arrays, subs, front fills, delays). Console selection for FOH and monitors. Stage monitor system (wedges, IEMs, or both). Microphone and DI selection per the input list. Audio snake and stage box routing. Amplifier racks and processing. RF coordination plan for all wireless systems. Intercom and communications channels. Audio power requirements (dedicated, clean power for audio is preferred). System measurement and tuning tools.
Lighting Technical Requirements
Fixture inventory per the lighting plot (moving heads, conventional, LED, effects). Console and programming requirements. Dimmer and power distribution for lighting circuits. Data distribution (DMX, sACN, Art-Net). Truss and rigging positions for lighting. Haze or fog requirements (affects fixture visibility dramatically). Follow spot positions and operators. Lighting power requirements (lighting loads are often the largest single power consumer). Backup console or programming backup strategy.
Video Technical Requirements
LED wall or projection specification (size, pixel pitch, brightness). Video switching and processing equipment. Camera positions and types (robotic, manned, jib/crane). Video signal routing (SDI, fiber, NDI). Content playback systems (media servers, playback machines). Graphics and lower-thirds capability. Recording requirements. Video power and signal infrastructure. Screen rigging or ground-stack engineering. Confidence monitors for performers and crew.
Staging & Rigging Requirements
Stage dimensions and load capacity. Roof or canopy requirements (for outdoor). Rigging plot with all hang points, loads, and motor positions. Ground support specifications if venue rigging is unavailable. Safety factors and compliance documentation. Barricade type and placement. Stairs, ramps, and ADA access. Stage deck finish and skirting. Wing space and backline area dimensions. Stage power distribution panel locations.
Power & Infrastructure Requirements
Total connected load calculation by department. Generator specification (if not on venue power). Power distribution panel locations and circuit assignments. Dedicated audio power (isolated ground, clean feed). Lighting power (often 3-phase for dimmer racks). Video power (usually clean power for LED processors). Production office and backstage power. Vendor and catering power. Emergency/backup power plan. Grounding and bonding requirements.
Communications & Documentation
Intercom system specification (wired and wireless). Production radio channels and assignments. Wi-Fi requirements for production offices and systems. Show caller communication to all departments. Documentation package: stage plot, input list, lighting plot, rigging plot, power plot, show schedule, crew contacts, emergency procedures. Document distribution to all department heads before load-in. Version control — ensure everyone has the current revision.
Need Technical Production?
One production partner managing every technical department under one contract.
Discuss Your ProductionTechnical Production FAQ
Common questions about technical production requirements.
The production company creates technical documents (stage plots, rigging plots, power plots) based on the artist’s technical rider and the venue’s infrastructure. The artist or their production manager provides input lists, lighting cue information, and any specific equipment requirements.
