TS 13016

TS 13016 is a vocational standard for the theatre stage sound director, the specialist responsible for the auditory organisation of a stage production. It applies to sound technicians working in public and private theatres and frames this occupation through common terminology for duties, qualifications and professional positioning.

What stage sound direction means in practice

In theatre, sound direction is about more than making voices audible. It involves balancing speech, effects, music and ambient sound so they support the dramatic intention of the production. A stage sound director works within the live-performance environment, where acoustics, performer movement, stage action and the sound system all interact in real time. That combination makes the role both technical and artistic.

The occupational framework covered by the standard

The standard focuses on sound technicians in state and private theatres. As with many occupational standards, its purpose is to organise the expected competence profile of the job rather than to prescribe every production decision. In this context, the important elements are job classification, the knowledge and skills associated with the role, and the ability to coordinate effectively within a theatre production workflow.

• Managing sound so it aligns with the dramatic flow of a live theatre performance
• Balancing spoken dialogue, stage effects and musical elements in a coordinated way
• Defining the role within the working context of public and private theatres
• Recognising the stage sound director, also referred to as a prompter/conduit term in the source context, as an occupational category