
Ask Ava: “What is it like backstage at a gig/concert?”
Question from Atlas in Alberta, Canada: “What is it like backstage at a gig/concert?”
Atlas! What an awesome question—backstage is one of the most fascinating parts of live music! As someone who spends all her time soaking in the energy and getting massaged behind the curtain, let me give you the full scoop on what happens backstage and how it can differ depending on the event, the people, and (most importantly) the planning. 🐾🎤
Backstage Basics
First off, think of backstage as the nerve center of any live show. It’s where artists prepare, crew members hustle, and everything gets coordinated to make the magic happen on stage. When everything is well-managed and adequately resourced, backstage should be a calm and efficient environment. But let me tell you, when it’s not… well, it can feel like me when I’m chasing my tail! 🌪️ Rawrf! I’m an Avanado!!
For Venues
Backstage for venues is all about logistics and control. A well-run venue has:
- Clear Zones: Dressing rooms, green rooms, tech areas, and catering are clearly designated and off-limits to non-essential personnel.
- Security and Privacy: Only approved crew and artists are allowed, keeping distractions to a minimum.
- Communication Systems: Radios or headsets ensure crew members stay connected without running around shouting.
- Clean and Functional Spaces: Trust me, no one wants to deal with a green room that smells like leftover pizza and barfed up booze. Properly managed venues ensure backstage is clean, stocked, and artist-friendly.
But when venues or promoters drop the ball—maybe by overbooking rooms, failing to manage access, or not having enough staff—you end up with chaos:
- People crowding areas they shouldn’t be in.
- Delays because communication is all over the place.
- Frustrated crew and artists who can’t do their jobs smoothly.
For Artists
For artists, backstage is their sanctuary—a place to get in the zone before stepping into the spotlight. When things are well-organized:
- Artists have a dedicated green room with their requested items (from the rider/agreed upon in advance).
- There’s a clear run-of-show timeline so they know when to prep, soundcheck, and perform.
- Tech and stage crews are on hand to assist, so artists can focus solely on their performance.
But when things aren’t properly managed?
- Artists might face delays or missed cues because no one is coordinating.
- Shared green rooms could feel crowded or stressful if too many unauthorized people are allowed in.
- Unnecessary noise and distractions might break their focus before they hit the stage.
A well-run event gives artists the space and calm they need to shine.
For Crew and Event Professionals
Oh, Atlas, let me tell you—crew members are the unsung heroes of any show. Backstage for them is all about efficiency:
- Gear Staging: Equipment is neatly organized and ready to move at a moment’s notice.
- Schedules and Cues: Everyone knows their role and when to execute their tasks.
- Break Areas: Even the hardest-working crew needs a quiet place to recharge between tasks.
But when events are underfunded, understaffed, or poorly managed?
- Crew members end up scrambling to find equipment.
- Miscommunication leads to missed cues, technical issues, or delays.
- Tensions rise, and things can get messy fast.
The best events respect their crew with proper resources, clear communication, and an environment where they can do their jobs without added stress.
The Chaos Factor
Now, you might be wondering, “Why does chaos even happen backstage?” Well, it’s usually a combination of:
- Poor Planning: Not enough time or budget for proper preparation.
- Overcrowding: Allowing too many non-essential people backstage. (This is a BIG no-no!)
- Lack of Resources: Insufficient staff, gear, or space to meet the event’s needs.
The Lemmon Stage way? A calm backstage isn’t just a luxury—it’s essential. When everything runs smoothly behind the scenes, it sets the tone for the entire show.
The Takeaway
Backstage life is a delicate balance. When an event is properly managed with adequate resources, backstage feels like a well-oiled machine—calm, focused, and ready for the show to shine. But if things go sideways, chaos creeps in, and trust me, nobody wants that—not the crew, not the artists, and certainly not this tiny backstage expert!
If you’re ever planning your own event, remember: backstage is where the magic begins. Treat it with the care and respect it deserves, and the show will reflect that professionalism.
Got more questions about backstage life or the live music world? Submit your question to me, Ava, and I’ll give you the insider scoop! 🐾✨
Submit Your Question Here
Help Me Keep the Backstage Running Smoothly!
If you enjoyed my behind-the-scenes scoop and want to help artists, venues, and live event professionals thrive, consider donating to The Lemmon Foundation. Your support means more smooth backstage moments, fewer hiccups, and a stronger live music community.
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🐾 Thanks for keeping the music alive!
