With each production at Tualatin High School (TuHS), students are blown away by the skills of the actors on stage. However, it is extremely important that we also acknowledge the incredible talents of those working behind the scenes and before the show. This is why The Wolf decided to interview Yuhong Lee, a tech intern here at TuHS. 

What is the tech crew in charge of during a show?

“The tech crew is in charge of everything backstage. Everything that doesn’t include the acting in a production is essentially the tech crew. From the lighting to the quick set change, the tech crew makes sure the environment works harmoniously with the actors. In a sense, they are the magic of the show.”

What is the process like when you are preparing for a show?

  “Depending on what you’re doing on the tech crew, the process can be challenging. The tech crew is the backbone of the productions and a show just wouldn’t work without them. The tech crew is divided into many sections. These sections include lighting, sound design, costumes, set design, running crew and more. The process is different in each section, but one similarity is that teamwork is key to getting a production ready.”

How long does it take to prepare for a production?

“Usually it takes 8-10 weeks to prepare a production, although it depends on what production we’re putting on.”

What is the most rewarding part of being involved in tech crew? 

“The most rewarding part of being involved is definitely the friendship that emerges from being a part of the tech crew. Because the tech crew takes a lot of time to get things done, it gives technicians time to interact and connect with the other people. I can say that as a starting point from being a part of the tech crew of Clue, I have made so many new friends backstage.”

Do you have any advice for someone who wants to be involved in tech crew? 

“The tech crew is sometimes, if not frequently, challenging. It can be difficult at certain times, but the experience thrives by being part of a team that works together to problem-solve and achieve the excellence of a production. And the best part is seeing all hard work finally paying off when show week comes. Seeing all your hard work displayed on stage for audiences to see is very rewarding. The production would not work at all if it wasn’t for the tech crew.”

Tech crew is a spectacular program with plenty of unique jobs. TuHS is incredibly grateful to have these talented individuals who work hard to put on amazing shows for us.