What is a Technical Rider?

A technical rider (often called a tech rider) is the part of an artist's contract that lists their technical needs for a show, including sound, lighting, backline, stage layout, power and crew. It sits alongside the hospitality rider as part of the full rider, and is sent to the venue or festival before the show.

How a technical rider is used

A technical rider moves through the show's preparation:

  1. Write it: the act's production or tour manager lists everything the show needs.
  2. Send it: it is attached to the contract or sent during the advance.
  3. Compare: the venue checks the rider against its own equipment and staff.
  4. Agree changes: any gaps are solved by hiring kit, swapping equipment or agreeing to go without.
  5. Deliver: on show day, the crew set up to the agreed rider.

Venues and festivals collect riders, stage plots and input lists from every act through advancing in Crescat, so the agreed version is always easy to find.

Technical rider vs hospitality rider

A technical rider covers what the show needs: sound, lighting, staging and crew. A hospitality rider covers what the people need: food, drinks, dressing rooms and transport. Both are usually part of the same rider, and both are agreed in the advance.

What to include in a technical rider

  • Contact details for the act's technical lead
  • Sound: PA, mixing desks, microphones and monitors
  • An input list and stage plot
  • Lighting needs, or a light plot
  • Backline needed from the venue
  • Stage size, risers and power
  • Local crew needed and timings for get-in and sound check

Frequently asked questions

Is a technical rider legally binding?

Usually, if it is attached to and referred to in the signed contract. In practice, many details are adjusted by agreement during the advance, and changes should be confirmed in writing.

What if the venue cannot meet the technical rider?

The venue should tell the act early and suggest alternatives, such as different equipment. Most acts accept reasonable changes, especially at smaller venues.

Does a small band need a technical rider?

Yes, even a one-page version. A clear input list and stage plot help the venue prepare and make sound checks faster.

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