Cue sheet

Definition

A cue sheet is a detailed document that outlines the sequence and timing of cues during a live performance, including lighting, sound effects, music, and actor entrances or exits. It serves as an essential tool for stage managers and operators to coordinate the technical elements of a show in real-time, ensuring everything runs smoothly and on schedule.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Cue sheets are usually created well in advance of performances and are updated as necessary during rehearsals.
2. They include precise timings for each cue, often measured in seconds or beats, to facilitate accurate execution.
3. Cue sheets can vary in complexity depending on the production; some might include notes about actor positioning or specific sound effects.
4. Effective communication between the stage manager and the technical team relies heavily on the accuracy and clarity of the cue sheet.
5. In larger productions, multiple cue sheets may exist to account for different technical elements such as sound and lighting.

Review Questions

• How does a cue sheet contribute to the coordination of technical elements in a live performance?
  • A cue sheet acts as a roadmap for the technical team, detailing when and how to execute various elements like lighting changes, sound effects, and actor movements. By providing precise timing and instructions, it allows for seamless coordination between all aspects of production. This synchronization ensures that every element happens at the right moment, enhancing the overall experience for the audience.
• Discuss the importance of accuracy in creating a cue sheet and how it affects live performances.
  • Accuracy in a cue sheet is crucial because even slight timing errors can disrupt the flow of a performance. If cues are mistimed, it can lead to awkward pauses, missed effects, or even actors being caught off guard. A well-prepared cue sheet allows for smooth transitions and maintains the intended pace and mood of the show, ultimately impacting audience engagement.
• Evaluate how cue sheets may differ between small and large productions and their implications for stage management.
  • In small productions, cue sheets might be simpler, focusing on fewer cues due to less technical complexity. In contrast, large productions often involve intricate lighting schemes, sound design, and numerous actors, requiring more detailed cue sheets. The implications for stage management are significant; they must adapt their communication strategies and monitoring techniques to ensure all cues are executed correctly across a larger team, which adds layers of complexity to their role.

Related terms

call: A term used to indicate a specific cue or instruction during a performance, often related to the timing of lighting or sound changes.

prompt book: A comprehensive script that includes all cues, blocking notations, and additional information for the stage manager to track during a performance.

light plot: A diagram that shows the arrangement of lighting fixtures and their intended focus on the stage, often referenced alongside the cue sheet.