What Is "Tech Week" in Theater? A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Head Over Heels with Shifted Lens Theatre Company

If you’ve ever been curious about what happens in the final days before a theater production opens, you’ve probably heard the phrase “tech week” mentioned with equal parts excitement and trepidation. For theater professionals and enthusiasts alike, tech week is a whirlwind of activity. It's a time when months of preparation finally come together. Here at The Arts Hub, we’re right in the middle of tech week for our upcoming musical, Head Over Heels, presented in partnership with Shifted Lens Theatre Company! Let’s take a look at what tech week means, why it’s so important, and what’s happening behind the scenes of our latest production.

What Does “Tech Week” Mean?

Tech week, short for “technical week,” is the period, usually the week before opening night, when all the technical elements of a show are integrated into rehearsals for the first time. Up until this point, rehearsals have focused on lines, blocking, and character work, often without the distraction of costumes, props, lighting, or sound. Tech week is when the magic really begins, as every detail comes together to create the world of the play or musical.

Why Is Tech Week So Important?

The main purpose of tech week is to rehearse the show with all technical elements in place, transforming the production from a bare-bones rehearsal into a fully realized performance. This is when:

• Actors get used to performing in costume and with props.

• The technical crew troubleshoots issues like lighting glitches or set malfunctions.

• The director and designers see their creative vision come to life.

• Practical problems—like a costume restricting movement or a prop being unwieldy—are identified and fixed. The stage manager begins calling all cues for lights, sound, and scene changes, ensuring every element is perfectly timed. It’s a demanding week, often called “Hell Week,” but it’s also where the show truly takes shape.

  
  

What Happens During Tech Week?

Tech week is fast-paced and full of energy. Here’s what typically happens:

• Load-In: Sets, props, and costumes are moved into the performance space.

• Cue-to-Cue Rehearsals: The cast and crew run through the show, stopping at each technical cue (like lighting or sound changes) to practice timing and coordination.

• Dress Rehearsals: Actors perform in full costume and makeup, running the show as if it were a real performance.

• Troubleshooting: Each department (props, costumes, lighting, and sound) works to resolve any issues, sometimes making last-minute adjustments. Here at The Arts Hub, tech week is also a time for camaraderie and memorable moments. Our own Kirk Slingluff, a production powerhouse, fondly recalls a pajama party “understudy run” during tech week for Anastasia a perfect example of how the intensity of tech week can foster creativity and team spirit.

  
  

Tech Week for Head Over Heels with Shifted Lens Theatre Company

Right now, the stage at The Arts Hub is buzzing with activity as we prepare for the upcoming musical, Head Over Heels, in collaboration with Shifted Lens Theatre Company. Our cast and crew are working tirelessly behind the scenes, bringing together all the technical elements that will make this vibrant, high-energy show truly unforgettable.

During tech week, lighting is plotted, sets are finalized, and costumes and props are integrated into rehearsals. The cast is getting comfortable with every cue and costume change, ensuring that when opening night arrives, the magic unfolds seamlessly for our audience.

Tips for a Successful Tech Week

• Plan Ahead: Create detailed schedules and task lists for cast and crew. Anticipate potential challenges and have backup plans ready.

• Stay Flexible: Expect the unexpected—tech week is notorious for surprises, and adaptability is key.

• Communicate: Open lines of communication between actors, crew, and directors help resolve issues quickly and efficiently.

• 
  

Why Tech Week Matters for the Audience

While tech week is all about preparation, its impact is felt by every audience member. The seamless transitions, immersive lighting, and perfectly timed sound cues you experience are the result of countless hours of teamwork during tech week. It’s the unsung hero of every successful production.

The Arts Hub: Where Tech Week Magic Happens

At The Arts Hub, our commitment to quality theater means embracing the challenges and joys of tech week head-on. With dedicated professionals leading the charge, we ensure every production is polished, professional, and ready to delight our audiences.

We invite you to join us for Head Over Heels, a musical that celebrates love, acceptance, and the joy of live theater. Stay tuned to artshub.org for more behind-the-scenes updates as we move through tech week, and don’t forget to secure your tickets to experience the show’s infectious energy firsthand!