Requests for technical needs and artist riders are due at the contract signing, a minimum of 30 days prior to the event.
- The stage setup must allow for the full deployment of the fire curtain and must be approved by the University.
- Any items or units to be flown and all rigging must be approved by the University. The University reserves the right to refuse to hang or fly anything deemed unstable or unsafe.
- Only gaffer's tape may be used on the stage floor or to tape down cables. Duct tape is not allowed.
- When not in use, the loading dock garage door should remain closed and locked.
- No gum, food or drinks on stage other than bottled water or as necessary for performance.
- Items cannot be pinned, hooked, taped, or stitched to the curtains.
- The renter shall provide a list of the props or set pieces that will need to be powered, if and how they will be attached to the stage floor, and whether they will be moved during the show. Pieces that are to be affixed to the stage floor should be done using only carpentry screws or gaffer's tape.
- Items cannot be placed on the lid of the grand piano.
- Tap shoes cannot be used on the Recital Hall stage.
Setup Times and Crew Calls
Remember that load-in, set-up, sound checks and load-out time must be considered in addition to your actual performance times. For each production, the University must set stage curtains, run sound cable, hang lights, set props, create lighting and sound cues, coordinate actors' exits/entrances, etc. The stage crew cannot work more than six (6) hours without a meal break. We prefer a meal break after a 4 or 5-hour work period. In conjunction with the renter's Technical Representative, the University's Technical Director will set the size of the crew and call times. The minimum crew size is three backstage technicians.
Camera Crews/Video and Audio Recording
The Technical Director must be notified in advance of any equipment placed in the theatre, such as video or sound equipment, as this may necessitate the roping off of seating. Equipment must be safely set up in an approved position before the house opens for seating (30 min. prior to showtime).
Projection
Front and rear projection capabilities exist in the McGee Theatre. Only front projection is available in Austin and the Recital Hall. The renter must send a link to video media in advance to the Technical Director so the video can be vetted to ensure that it is compatible with our system and that the event will go smoothly. Use of Apple products require the renter to provide the adapter to plug into our projector and advance discussion with the Technical Director.
Sound
The Renter must provide the sound prepared for playback on a first-generation CD or mp3 player. All mixing, dubbing, or editing is to be prepared by The Renter at another facility prior to the event. The University reserves the right to control all sound levels involved with any rental or production. All sound levels will be monitored with Db meters as required by OSHA.
Stage Lighting
Our standard house plot in Austin and McGee allows for one no-color stage wash for a 25-foot wide performing area. Cost-conscious renters should keep in mind that large light plots mean higher staff costs. A lighting plot with all pertinent information must be submitted 30 days prior to the event. Special lighting effects must be discussed when the lighting plot is submitted.
Scenery
List and describe any scenery, drops or objects to be used in The Renter's presentation. If curtains need to be transferred or removed, additional time and crew will be required. The University requires all scenery to be stage ready.