Lighting and Tech 101: What Every Performer Should Know About Stage Production
Whether you're a pole dancer, aerialist, burlesque performer, or circus artist, your act doesn’t begin and end with choreography. The technical side of stage production—especially lighting and sound—can make or break your performance. Understanding these elements can elevate your stage presence, ensure your safety, and help you communicate better with your production team.
Here’s what every performer should know about lighting, sound, and technical production basics.
Why Stage Lighting Matters
Lighting is more than just “seeing” the act. It:
Sets the mood and tone
Highlights key movements and expressions
Draws focus to important parts of the performance
Enhances costumes, makeup, and props
If your act has emotional storytelling, dramatic reveals, or subtle transitions, lighting is what helps the audience follow your narrative.
Common Lighting Types:
Front lighting: Lights your face and body clearly—great for visibility and expression.
Back lighting: Creates silhouettes or a dramatic effect—especially effective in dance and aerial.
Side lighting: Adds dimension to movement—commonly used for dynamic shapes and flow.
Spotlights: Keeps focus on the performer—especially useful when multiple acts are happening on one stage.
Communicating Your Lighting Needs
You don’t need to be a lighting designer, but you do need to clearly communicate:
What mood you want (soft and romantic? bold and dramatic?)
Any color preferences (especially if they clash with your costume)
Specific cues (e.g., blackout at the end, fade-in at the start)
If you’re doing spin pole, aerial drops, or fast movement—lighting needs to follow you smoothly
💡 Tip: Include lighting notes in your tech sheet or submission form. A clear visual or reference video can be helpful.
Tech Rehearsals Are Your Friend
Tech rehearsals aren’t just for testing lights and sound—they help you get comfortable with the space, stage layout, and transitions.
Use your tech time to:
Confirm pole or aerial rig height and placement
Practice entering and exiting with lighting cues
Test your music playback
Coordinate with stage crew or MC
Skipping tech means risking awkward transitions, poorly timed music, or lighting that doesn’t match your act.
Understanding Sound Basics
Make sure your music file:
Is high-quality (320 kbps MP3 or WAV format)
Has a clear start and end
Doesn’t require volume adjustments mid-act
Is labeled with your name and act title
If your act includes dialogue, vocals, or musical pauses, tell your tech team in advance so they can balance the sound accordingly.
Stage Layout Awareness
Knowing your stage environment allows you to:
Choreograph with lighting positions in mind
Avoid “dead zones” where you’re not visible
Be aware of shadows, rigging, and safety hazards
Talk to the stage manager or tech director before your performance to get a sense of space and setup.
Tech Checklist for Performers
✅ Submit your music on time, in the right format
✅ Provide clear lighting and cue notes
✅ Attend your tech rehearsal
✅ Wear your costume if possible (to test lighting)
✅ Know your spacing and exit/entry marks
✅ Communicate clearly and respectfully with the crew
Final Thoughts
Performing isn’t just about the art—it’s about the experience. Lighting and tech create the immersive atmosphere that connects you with your audience. As a performer, your job doesn’t stop at choreography. The more you understand and respect the tech side of the stage, the more polished and professional your performance will be.
Remember: your artistry shines brightest when supported by strong production.