# Theatre & Performing Arts

This guide covers a theatrical workflow: a scripted show with a precise cue list, timecode synchronisation, operator control, and multi-screen output for stage and set video.

## Typical Setup

```
Stage backdrop projection    Side wings LED panels
            │                         │
            └────────────┬────────────┘
                         │
                 Exaplay 3 (production booth)
                         │
             Stage Manager laptop (Control View)
```

## Phase 1 — Pre-Production

### 1.1 Receive the Script

Work through the script with the director and video designer to identify:

* Every video cue (scene transitions, backdrops, overlays)
* Timecodes if audio or music is pre-recorded and locked
* Cue numbering conventions (should match the stage manager's prompt script)

### 1.2 Organise the Show File

Create a folder structure that matches the script's act/scene structure:

```
MyPlay_2026/
├── MyPlay_2026.vpp
└── media/
    ├── act1/
    │   ├── sc01_exterior_day.mov
    │   ├── sc03_rain_window.mov
    │   └── sc05_train_departure.mov
    └── act2/
        ├── sc01_interior_night.mov
        └── sc04_finale_abstract.mov
```

### 1.3 Build the Compositions

For a typical theatrical show:

* **BACKDROP** composition — full rear projection surface
* **WINGS\_LEFT** and **WINGS\_RIGHT** — LED wing panels
* **FLOOR** (optional) — floor projection

### 1.4 Enter All Video Cues

For each cue identified in the script:

1. Create a cue in the **CueList**.
2. **Cue number:** match the prompt script (e.g. `V1`, `V1.5`, `V2`).
3. **Name:** descriptive label (e.g. `V3 — Rainstorm starts`).
4. **Action:** choose one of:
   * `Go to timecode` — jump to a specific point on the timeline
   * `Load composition` — switch the backdrop to a different composition
   * `Fade to black` — black out with a specific duration

### 1.5 Timecode Sync (if applicable)

If the show plays against a locked audio soundtrack:

1. Set up **LTC timecode** from the audio playback system.
2. In Exaplay: **Config → Audio Settings → Timecode Input → Enable LTC**.
3. Confirm `TC: Locked` in the Transport bar during rehearsal.

All cue timecodes will now fire frame-accurately against the audio.

***

## Phase 2 — Rehearsals

### Technical Rehearsal

1. Load the show file and start from Cue 1.
2. Work through each cue with the director.
3. Adjust:
   * Cue timecodes (use `Edit Cue` to update)
   * Transition durations
   * Video start/end points (trim in the Inspector)
4. Use the **Diagnostics Panel** to verify performance during playback-heavy scenes.

### Dress Rehearsal

1. Hand the **Control View** URL to the stage manager.
2. The stage manager uses the **Go** button to advance through cues, watching the stage.
3. Note any timing adjustments needed.

### Emergency Backup

Configure **Auto-Heal** so the show restores automatically if the system crashes mid-performance. See [Auto-Heal & Watchdog](/v3/features/auto-heal.md).

***

## Phase 3 — Show Operation

### Stage Manager Interface

The stage manager operates from the **Control View** (`/control`):

```
[◀ BACK]  [GO ▶]

Cue V5 — Act 1 Scene 5 — Train Departure  ← CURRENT
Cue V6 — Interval Blackout                ← NEXT (highlighted)
Cue V7 — Act 2 Opening                    ← NEXT+1
```

The stage manager presses **Go** at the correct point in dialogue or action. The cue fires and the next cue moves into position.

### Calling a Cue Out of Order

Right-click any cue in the list and choose **Fire Now** to jump to it out of sequence. The cue list does not advance — pressing Go next will fire the cue that was previously **NEXT**.

### Fade to Black (Interval / Emergency)

Assign a hot key (e.g. `F12`) to a **Fade to Black** cue so the stage manager can black out instantly if needed.

***

## Phase 4 — Post-Production and Archiving

1. After closing night, save the final project.
2. Use **Export Project** to create an archive ZIP containing the project and all media.
3. Label the archive clearly (show title, venue, dates) and store it.


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