How to Be Dance Performance Technician - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Jul 5, 2022 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Dance Performance Technicians are responsible for ensuring that dance performances are successful. They are responsible for installing, operating, and maintaining the audio and lighting systems used during a performance. They also oversee the setup and teardown of all necessary equipment.

This important role helps to create a quality performance experience for dancers and audience members alike. When Dance Performance Technicians provide excellent service, it can help to ensure that shows run smoothly and on schedule. In turn, this can lead to positive reviews from audiences, as well as additional opportunities for the performers.

having an experienced and knowledgeable Dance Performance Technician on staff helps to ensure that every performance is a success.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a high school diploma or its equivalent. A high school diploma is typically required for entry-level positions, and most employers prefer to hire technicians who have completed a post-secondary program in a related field.
Enroll in a dance performance technician program at a college, university or trade school. Programs typically include classes in dance performance techniques, audio and video equipment setup and operation, live sound reinforcement, stage lighting and production.
Take courses in computer programming or electronics. Many modern dance performance technologies rely heavily on computers, and technicians with knowledge of programming and electronics are highly sought after.
Participate in an internship or apprenticeship program. This is a great way to gain hands-on experience with the tools and technology used in dance performance production.
Consider earning certification or licensure. Many states require dance performance technicians to be certified or licensed before they can work with certain types of equipment or in certain venues.
Join a professional organization, such as the Professional Dance Performance Technician Association (PDPTA). Members of this organization have access to continuing education resources, job listings and networking opportunities.

Being an ideal and capable Dance Performance Technician requires a combination of skills, technical expertise, and creativity. Having excellent technical knowledge is essential, as technicians need to be able to understand and troubleshoot sound, lighting, and other performance-related equipment. They also need to have an understanding of composition and choreography, in order to be able to work with the performers to create the best possible final product.

the technician needs a good eye for detail and the ability to stay organized while working in often chaotic environments. Finally, they must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills, in order to collaborate effectively with the performers, other technicians, and producers. By mastering these skills, technicians can become invaluable assets to any performance team.

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Job Description

Install and maintain sound, lighting, and video equipment for live dance performances.
Test and inspect all audio, lighting, and video equipment prior to use.
Consult with the dance director to determine the technical needs of the show.
Troubleshoot any technical issues that arise during performances.
Set up, adjust, and operate audio, lighting, and video equipment during performances.
Repair and maintain audio, lighting, and video equipment if needed.
Record live performances for archiving or broadcast purposes.
Work with stage crew to ensure smooth transitions between performances.
Ensure all performance areas are safe for performers and audience members.
Monitor the technical crew during performances to ensure all equipment is functioning properly.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Demonstrated knowledge of audio-visual equipment and its setup
Knowledge of theatrical lighting techniques and equipment
Ability to troubleshoot technical issues quickly and reliably
Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written
Ability to work effectively under pressure
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Ability to work with a variety of software programs
Ability to use audio-visual editing software and equipment
Knowledge of basic computer networking
Knowledge of health and safety regulations in regards to theatrical performance
Ability to assess and maintain program budgets
Ability to provide technical support to other performance technicians
Ability to read and understand technical instructions accurately
Ability to remain calm in stressful situations
Problem-solving skills

Being a Dance Performance Technician requires a great deal of technical knowledge, organization and problem-solving skills. The technician needs to be able to troubleshoot technical issues and be able to quickly diagnose and correct them in order to keep the show running. They must have a good understanding of lighting, sound, audio/visual equipment, and stage design.

They also need to be proficient in the use of computers and be familiar with software such as Adobe After Effects and Autodesk 3ds Max. This technical knowledge is essential for the technician to be able to effectively manage the entire performance, from setup to teardown. Furthermore, the technician must be able to coordinate and collaborate with other technicians, dancers and crew members to ensure that everything runs smoothly and on time.

Being able to effectively communicate with other team members is key for the success of any performance. Finally, the technician must be able to stay calm and organized in stressful situations, as well as think on their feet and make quick decisions in order to keep the show running without any hiccups.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have with setting up and maintaining stage and lighting equipment for dance performances?
What do you consider the most important aspects of running a successful dance performance?
How would you go about troubleshooting technical issues that arise during a performance?
Describe your experience working with a variety of different types of dance companies.
What techniques do you use to ensure that the performance space is properly prepared and safe for dancers?
How do you handle unexpected situations during a performance?
How do you collaborate with other technicians, performers and directors to ensure a successful production?
What strategies do you use to stay organized and on task during a performance?
How do you ensure that the equipment you are using is in good condition and safe to use?
How do you stay current on the latest technologies and procedures used in dance performance production?

Common Tools in Industry

Music Production Software. Software used to create, mix, and edit sound recordings, including digital representations of sound clips and audio tracks. (e. g. Pro Tools, Logic Pro)
Lighting and Special Effects Equipment. Equipment used to create and control lighting and special effects for a performance. (e. g. DMX, intelligent lighting)
Audio Recording Equipment. Hardware and software used to capture audio recordings of a performance. (e. g. microphones, digital audio workstation)
Stage Management Software. Software used to keep track of tasks and schedules related to a performance. (e. g. ShowBiz Manager, EventPro Planner)
Video Recording Equipment. Hardware and software used to capture video footage of a performance. (e. g. cameras, video editing software)
Audio/Visual Mixing Consoles. Equipment used to mix audio and visual signals from multiple sources for a performance. (e. g. mixing boards, consoles)

Professional Organizations to Know

Dance/USA
International Dance Council
National Dance Education Organization
National Dance Alliance
Society of Dance History Scholars
Association of British Theatre Technicians
International Federation of Theatre Research
USITT (United States Institute for Theatre Technology)
Performance Studies International
National Association of Schools of Dance

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Common Important Terms

Stage Manager. A stage manager is a person who organizes and coordinates all aspects of a theatrical production. They are responsible for managing the rehearsal process, setting up performances, and leading the technical crew.
Lighting Design. The lighting design of a production is the visual display of light and color in order to create the desired atmosphere or mood in a performance.
Costume Design. Costume design is the practice of creating costumes for performers to wear during a theatrical or dance performance.
Set Design. Set design is the art of designing and constructing the sets for a performance. It includes choosing materials and creating props, costumes, furniture, and other elements of the performance space.
Audio Engineering. Audio engineering is the practice of recording, editing, mixing, and mastering sound for use in a production.
Choreography. Choreography is the art of designing and creating choreographed movements for performers to perform during a performance.
Video Engineering. Video engineering is the practice of manipulating video footage for use in a production. This includes shooting, editing, and post-production work.
Projection Design. Projection design is the art of creating projections for use in a performance. This includes selecting and manipulating visuals such as images, videos, and animations to be projected onto the stage or screen.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Dance Performance Technician?

A Dance Performance Technician is a professional who specializes in the technical aspects of live dance performances, including the sound, lighting, rigging and stage management.

What qualifications do I need to become a Dance Performance Technician?

To become a Dance Performance Technician, you should have a degree in the technical aspects of theatre or dance performance, such as lighting design, sound engineering, or stage management. You should also have experience working with theatrical equipment and technology.

What tasks does a Dance Performance Technician typically perform?

A Dance Performance Technician typically performs tasks such as setting up and operating sound and lighting equipment, rigging stages and sets, managing stage props and costumes, and troubleshooting technical issues during performances.

How much does a Dance Performance Technician typically earn?

The salary of a Dance Performance Technician varies depending on experience and location, but according to PayScale the average salary is around $41,000 per year.

What other roles do Dance Performance Technicians often take on?

In addition to their technical roles, Dance Performance Technicians often take on additional roles such as stage managing, choreographing, or teaching dance classes.