Traditionally if a show succeeds all credit goes to the director. Whenever a crew member suggests an improvement, as director be sure publicly to acknowledge the contributor instead of mutely taking the credit for yourself. Such modesty ultimately inspires all to work harder. Praise for good work pays off.

The key starts at the beginning of the rehearsal process. If you include the crew at the read through reminding them that this is a collaborative art, you will immediately create ownership of the project by all parties involved. Also, invite the actors to come and work with the crew if they are able. By the time tech rehearsal begins, your company is a group of on and off stage as one team working together to create a performance wherein everyone can feel confident with their roles.

Overseeing a tech rehearsal can be a great opportunity to inspire your team. To achieve this, follow these strategies: 1. Clear communication: Clearly outline roles and responsibilities, set clear goals, and lead by example. Show commitment and commitment, and stay positive and calm. Empower and trust team members by delegating authority and encouraging initiative. 2. Provide support and resources: Be accessible, equip your team with necessary tools, and acknowledge and reward good work. Celebrate successes and provide constructive feedback throughout the rehearsal. 3. Encourage team input and seek input to improve performance and refine processes. By fostering a supportive and collaborative environment, you can inspire them to do well.

To inspire my team to shine through delegated tasks, I think it’s really important to start by understanding each person’s strengths and interests. When we’re assigned tasks that align with what we’re good at or passionate about, it makes us more motivated to do well. I would also make sure to communicate clearly what the expectations are for each task. It’s super helpful to have a clear idea of what needs to be done and by when. I’d try to involve everyone in setting those goals. Another key point is to be supportive. If someone is struggling or has questions, I’d want to be there to help them out. I think it’s important to create an environment where it’s okay to make mistakes because that’s how we learn and grow

When I’m overseeing a tech rehearsal, my priority is to keep the team focused, and confident in their roles. Before we start, I gather the team and outline the key objectives for the session and how their tasks fit into the overall plan. Then, I assign tasks based on each person’s expertise, establish a single communication protocol. At key moments I pause to check progress and make adjustments if necessary. At the end, I gather everyone for a brief review of what we accomplished and what still needs work. This approach helps me keep the big picture in focus while ensuring my team has the clarity to do their best work.

One thing I find helpful is to help everyone on the team see the big picture of where the production is going. With that making sure we have time to fully understand each person’s idea for the development of the production so that it is true collaboration.

Have a plan but be willing to be flexible. Be present to answer questions or guide any confusions. Make sure folks know what THEIR responsibility is and GIVE them that responsibility. Have fun and remember that everyone has the same end goal - a successful show, that is safe, well planned and fun.

In our case we have a pre-rehearsal onstage warm-up with darkened theater and stage lights up - that way our dancers have an hour or more of actual dancing time to accustom themselves to what they will encounter during the tech rehearsal and in performance. Also, by the time we get to tech rehearsal our entire team has prepared and observed the show in the studio, often multiple times. They know their roles well by the time we are in the theater. So - prepare well! And be encouraging every step of the way, while firmly drawing bottom lines on what is needed.

As an arts administrator I have always led the team by example, this means having a can do attitude and results driven. It’s always important to utilise the strengths of the team and make them feel valued, and always acknowledging great work. You also need to be able to develop working relationships with all stake holders, from the venue team, the artists requirements and the public. Being able to coordinate and schedule does require skill, which we all learn from each other, so being inclusive and nurturing is really important. Open communication and networking are essential.