Cans Etiquette

Headset

Beltpack

Mic switch, Headset volume control, Flash button.

The cans are the theatre's headset communication

Important phrases:

• "Quiet on cans please" other operators must respond by being quiet
• "Going off cans" when any operator leaves the headset
• "Standby LX Q 11" operator responds : "Standing By"
• "LX Q 11 Go" operator may respond "Running" if its a cue which is not obvious, or is a long fade.

It is very important that the "Standby" is given at the start of the phrase, and the "Go" is at the end of the phrase. "Go" is the only word that can be used to initiate a cue. "Fade", "Stop" are NOT appropriate.

If the operator needs a reminder of what the cue actually does, then the following are appropriate.
"Sound Q 12 which is a fade, Go"
"Sound Q 13 to cut the music, Go"

For non-standard equipment, (eg Slide projectors, smoke machines) a less rigid cuing method is possible ;
"Smoke GO".... "Smoke STOP"
"Next slide GO"
"Slide off GO"

Where possible, one obvious action word should be used. This word should usually be "Go".
Avoid using the word "Go" in any conversations.

Summary:

Every cue should have a standby.

Standby LX Q15

The lighting operator will then respond 'Standing By'.

A few seconds prior to the cue:

LX Q 15...

Then at the cue point:

GO.

Alternatives:

• Standby LXQ15 and Sound Q5
• LXQ15 and Sound Q5... GO

Volume
The headsets are extremely sensitive, and can detect the slightest whisper. All operators should talk quietly, so that you can all turn your listen volume up high. Try cuing with somebody sitting 4 feet away from you. They should not be able to hear you.

The Stage Management Desk

Information coming soon

Cue Lights

Cue lights are a visual signal to technical operators and actors that their cue is imminent (flashing red) or has come (green).

The lights are operated by the DSM at the prompt desk.

There are usually two rows of switches. The top row operates the red 'Standby' or 'Warn' light. When first pressed, the light on the SM desk and at the operating position or entrance flash red.

The operator or actor has an acknowledge switch, which confirms that they are indeed 'standing by'. This makes the light go steady on the desk and at the operating position.

At the cue point, the DSM switches the green light on at the desk. The light comes on at the operating position, and the operator (or actor) carries out the required action.

In most theatres, cue lights are used in conjunction with headsets, so that technical operators get a verbal and visual indication of a cue.