Technical rider
A technical rider lists an artist’s production requirements. Learn what to include, who should approve changes and how to prepare for a multi-act show.
What to include
A useful technical rider includes inputs, monitoring, stage layout and any specific backline or playback requirements. Keep it current and include a technical contact who can approve substitutions.
When to send it
Share it before equipment and staffing are final. If you have several artists, send the rider for each so the production crew can reconcile shared gear and changeovers.
Send the current version for every act
A headline act’s rider does not describe the opening band or the DJ who follows. Collect each act’s latest requirements and name a contact who can answer technical questions. Mark what the artist brings and what they expect on site. If two documents disagree, ask for a confirmed version before forwarding them to the venue and production team.
Check the rider includes
- A stage plot and input list using the same labels.
- Monitoring, playback and any requested backline equipment.
- The revision date and a contact who can approve changes or substitutions.
Before the event
What if an artist does not have a formal rider?
Ask for a simple written list of their performers, instruments, microphones, playback and monitoring needs. A clear practical brief is more useful than leaving the production team to guess.
Does submitting a rider confirm every item?
No. It starts the technical discussion. Confirm the agreed provision and any substitutions with the artist and production team, then circulate that agreed version.