Directors work hard to make sure the show is ready for opening. And let’s be honest — the emotional ups and downs of tech week ellicit some pretty intense reactions. Whether you’re a new director starting out in high school, college, or the professional world or a seasoned visionary with dozens of shows on your resume, you’ll identify with these reactions to tech week problems.

When the stage manager says, “I can’t make the cue to cue.”

But they send their entire prompt book via PDF.

When the costumes aren’t ready for final dress.

But the set is finished.

When a stagehand forgets a scene change.

But the actors take initiative and cover.

When the cast doesn’t know their lines.

But they at least know their blocking.

When someone asks, “What’s my motivation here?” in the middle of a run.

But they figure it out after another run-thru.

When an actor can’t find their prop.

But they find it in their pocket 2 minutes later.

When an actor says to the director, “Are you sure?”

And then the actor realizes their fatal mistake.

When people won’t be quiet during notes.

But one actor yells, “BE QUIET!”

When it’s 6AM, the caffeine runs out, and the director is left alone in the theatre.

And then they realize their show opens in less than 12 hours.