You're facing a technical meltdown on stage. How do you keep the show running smoothly?

During the times when I face technical glitches, I make sure to keep the audience engaged While sharing real-life stories, information, and knowledge related to the field helps to run the whole process in a hassle-free manner This lowers the hurdles of breaking the barriers

When the unexpected strikes, your composure is key. 1) Maintain composure: Breathe deeply and remember everyone is looking to you for guidance. 2) Use pre-established comms channels: Avoid on-stage chaos by using hand signals or talkback systems - discreetly if in public view. 3) Assess the situation calmly: Identify the root cause of the technical issue. 4) Guide your team towards a solution: Use their expertise and problem-solving skills. Your leadership sets the tone. A calm and collected leader can help the team overcome challenges and ensure the show continues.

Clear communication is essential during technical failure or show stop. Talk to your crew, then use the theatre's Tannoy system to inform cast and crew and FOH of the issue and the steps being taken to resolve it. If the problem persists, consider a brief FOH announcement to the audience, acknowledging the issue and requesting their patience. Transparency builds empathy and understanding, demonstrating your professionalism and commitment to the audience's experience.

I always have a plan B and C for everything. One of the biggest problems I have encountered is when the microphones go out on the actors. They need to feel the difference when the mic goes out. During one rehearsal I have the sound technician randomly take out the microphones. The actors then need to up the projection. In lighting the first rule is visibility . Sometimes lights go out for a number of reasons. My plan B is to have spotlights ready on each side of the stage. If the main lights go out. Between the two spots, they can usually light the stage. This has happened in several productions. The actors need to know what their characters say as well as themselves . An actor once came in 5 pages early but my lead got the info back in.

When technical glitches happen (and they do), adaptability is key. If safe to do so, encourage your actors to stay in character and engage the audience, even without props or sound. Behind the scenes, the crew should be ready to improvise, adapting staging, LX or props to keep the show moving. A) Prepare the cast and crew for a show stop: Train them to handle unexpected situations with confidence and grace. (Audiences love a show stop and restart as it breaks the fourth wall, and they get to see behind the scenes) B) Have a backup plan: Consider alternative scenes or segments that can be performed without technical elements.