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What is a technical rider?
A technical rider sets out the production requirements for a performance. Depending on the show, it may cover audio, monitoring, stage layout, backline, lighting, video and other equipment or crew needs.
It gives the venue a basis for preparing the show. The advance establishes which requirements are met and which changes need agreement.
Make the requirements specific
Identify the artist, show configuration, revision date and technical contact.
Attach a matching stage plot and input list.
List equipment the tour brings separately from equipment requested locally.
State the monitor feeds, stands, connections and power needs relevant to the actual setup.
Separate essential requirements from preferences and name the person who can approve substitutions.
An example that avoids a common misunderstanding
Hypothetical requirement: 'Tour supplies keyboard and sustain pedal. Venue supplies a stable keyboard stand and two suitable DI channels for stereo outputs. One monitor mix is required at the keyboard position. Any change to a mono feed must be agreed with the touring audio contact.'
This wording identifies the equipment owner, the signal requirement and the approval needed for a change. 'Keyboard setup required' leaves all three unclear.
Use a responsibility check
Requested: two DI channels. Venue response: available. Status: confirmed.
Requested: keyboard stand. Venue response: model to be checked. Status: open.
Tour-supplied: keyboard and pedal. Tour action: check packing and operation before departure.
Review the version before each run
Remove equipment that is no longer in the show and update changes to personnel or playback. A rider for a full band can create unnecessary work when the booked performance is a duo.
Treat specialist electrical, rigging and effects requirements as matters for qualified production personnel. A generic rider example does not establish that a venue or installation is safe.
Examples and sample wording on this page are original, fictional teaching aids, not records of actual shows or agreements.
Related guides: What Is a Show Advance? A Practical Checklist; What Is a Stage Plot? How to Make One; What Is an Input List? A Small-Band Example.