What is a Strike in Live Events?

A strike (also called striking the set or breakdown) is the process of taking down the stage, set, lighting, sound and other equipment after a show or event, ready for it to be packed and loaded out. In theatre, the strike happens at the end of a run; in live music, it happens after every show. In everyday crew talk, "strike" also means removing a single item, as in "strike that mic stand".

How a strike works

A strike usually follows a set order:

  1. Make safe: bring up working lights and clear the stage of performers and guests.
  2. De-rig: unplug and pack instruments, backline and stage equipment.
  3. Bring down overhead: riggers lower and remove lighting, speakers and set pieces.
  4. Pack: cases are packed and labelled in order, ready for the trucks.
  5. Clear and check: the stage is swept and checked against what was brought in.

Strike crews are booked as their own call, which venues and festivals plan with shifts in Crescat.

Strike vs load-out

The strike is taking everything down. The load-out is carrying it out of the venue and loading the trucks. They often run together, and some crews use the words interchangeably.

What to plan for a strike

  • Enough stage crew and riggers for the size of the show
  • The truck pack order from the touring crew
  • Safe working with hard hats during overhead work
  • Time limits set by the venue or curfew
  • Rubbish removal and venue reinstatement
  • A final check for lost, left-behind or damaged items
  • Lighting and access routes for crew working late at night

Frequently asked questions

How long does a strike take?

From under an hour for a small band to several hours for an arena show. Festival stages can take days to strike at the end of the event. Good planning and labelled cases make every strike faster.

Who does the strike?

Touring crew pack their own equipment, helped by local load-in and load-out crew and riggers hired by the venue or promoter.

Why is it called a strike?

The term is usually linked to sailing, where "striking" meant lowering sails or flags. Many early stagehands were sailors, and theatre crews took the word on to mean taking down a set.

Related terms