This is a simple guide to a production’s technical rating, working from A, as the most complex to D as the simplest, it is a quick and easy system, originally used by NTS.
THIS IS A GUIDE ONLY. The guide is not intended to be definitive; it is only a simple indication and producers would still be urged to check the full tech specs and communicate directly with the venue, to discuss if the venue specs match the needs their show.
(A)
Bump-in across 2 days or more, large experienced crew in all areas and probable overtime, lighting rig – 120+ channels digital desk, complex sound, complex set, requires full fly system, requires experienced show crew, requires pre-rig, stage size 10m x 12m or more
(B)
Bump-in longer than 1 day, experienced LX crew and mechanists – overtime may be required, less than 120 channels, some additional sound equipment hired in addition to in-house system, experienced mechanists required, large set pieces, may require flying, medium show crew, 2 – 4 staff, requires pre-rig, stage size 10m x 12m or less
(C)
Bump-in between 4 hours and 1 day, experienced small crew, digital LX board, moderate LX rig, can use in-house sound system with some extra items supplied by producer, simple set, no fly tower, 1 or less venue crew to operate show, basic pre-rig, stage size 10m x 8m or less
(D)
Bump-in 4 hours or under, 1 or 2 technicians, show can use existing lighting rig with minor adjustments, show can use existing sound system, simple or no set, no fly tower, touring staff operate show, stage size – flexible