Backstage Technical Reference

Reference Material for Technical Folks

This section has been completely reorganized. It is now intended as a sort of encyclopedia of theater equipment and tools, so that if you run across something you don't understand, you can find out what it is here.

If you are looking for "how-to" type documentation, look at the Guide to Jobs section. Depending on the job you select, you will probably find more complete information about the relevant tools and materials for your job there than you will here.

Theatrical Encyclopedia

• Parts of the Theater Building
  • Proscenium
  • Thrust
  • Arena
• Parts of Theatrical Lighting Systems
  • Power Supply
  • Dimming
  • Cabling
  • Control Cabling
  • Control
• Types and Parts of Theatrical Lighting Units
  • General
  • Fresnel
  • Ellipsoidal
  • Cyc Lights
  • Striplights
  • Low-Voltage
  • Moving Luminaires
• Parts of Theatrical Rigging Systems
  • Winch Systems
  • Counterweight Systems
  • General Rigging
  • Drops
• Tools, Parts, and Materials
  • Hand Tools
  • Power Tools
  • Fasteners
  • Wood Materials
  • Fabrics

These are old links, kept around for archival purposes only.

• Tools and Techniques Reference - A (currently empty) encyclopedia of tools and techniques for building, rigging, and lighting.
• Lighting and Sound Equipment - A general guide to lighting and sound equipment
• Reference Data - information about specific products