Live Show Protocol for Sound Crew

The goal during a live performance is simple: Make the cast sound great and Prevent anything from breaking or feeding back.

This guide explains the roles, expectations, and rhythm of running sound during a show - whether you’re at the board or backstage helping with mics.

1. Pre-Show Checklist (60-30 Minutes Before Curtain)

Sound Board Operator:

For the cafetorium, use the Mobile Sound Setup Checklist

For the old Northview theater:

• Turn on the mixer and all wireless receivers
• Turn on the main speakers and monitors
• Verify all channels are correctly labeled and assigned
• Load the correct scene or preset if one is saved
• Check that music or sound effect sources (QLab, laptop, etc.) are connected and ready
• Confirm the Main L/R mix is routed and active

Backstage/Assistant Crew:

• Hand out mics to actors according to the mic chart
• Help with mic placement (see Mic Placement Guide)
• Check that each pack is:
  • On
  • Showing signal
  • Not muted
  • Securely attached
• Run a quick pack tap test or speak test if time allows

2. Final Sound Check (15-10 Minutes Before Curtain)

• One last check to ensure:
  • No feedback
  • All actors have their correct mics
  • Music playback is working
• Keep all faders at -infinity until needed - this prevents accidental open mics

Tip: Some shows benefit from a 2-3 minute “house music off / quiet test” with the actors already mic’d - it helps spot last-minute issues before the audience hears them.

3. During the Show

Sound Board Operator (A1):

• Follow the script or cue sheet carefully
• Keep faders down until just before the actor speaks
• Use input gain + fader to balance each voice - adjust live for shouting or whispering
• Never leave a mic open when the actor isn’t speaking - prevents feedback and noise

Special Notes:

• Watch for mic swaps if an actor’s pack fails (backups should be ready)
• If feedback starts:
  1. Lower the fader
  2. Look at actor’s position (in front of speaker?)
  3. Apply a quick EQ cut or pan if needed

Backstage Sound Crew:

• Be ready to:
  • Swap batteries or full packs mid-show
  • Adjust or re-tape mics that slip or fall off
  • Run interference if an actor is missing their mic call

4. Emergency Protocols

Pro tip: Keep a small sound emergency kit backstage: fresh batteries, pre-labeled backup mic pack, spare tape, and windscreen.

5. Post-Show Wrap-Up

• Turn off all wireless packs and receivers
• Collect all mics and store neatly (untape carefully!)
• Check for damage or broken tape connections
• Recharge or replace batteries as needed for the next performance
• Save any mix changes that worked well during the show

Clean windscreens and mic booms gently if multiple actors use the same headset.

DOs and DON’Ts

For New Crew Members

• Learn mic cue timing by watching rehearsals closely
• Always know which mics are “live” at any moment
• If something goes wrong, lower the fader first, then troubleshoot
• Watch the A1 - ask questions during tech, not the show