Rehearsals: Walk-Throughs, Full Reads & the Off-Line Room

Once all the gear is loaded in, set up, tested, and the content is good to go, it's rehearsal time! This is where we run the show from top to bottom. Every video, lighting cue, mic check, and “Voice of God” announcement.

We all get on the headset, and the show caller leads the charge. Once we feel confident on our end, it’s time to bring in the presenter!

The Walk-Through

Think of this as a guided tour of the show for your presenter.

• It’s not about memorizing every word, it’s about syncing the presenter with the production team.

• The goal: make sure the presenter knows their cues, approves their slides, meets the backstage manager, and figures out their entrance/exit.

• We’ll do a quick dry run of all AV cues.

• Usually takes 15–20 minutes.

The Full Read

Sometimes the presenter wants to rehearse the entire talk…word for word. Great!

• If we’ve got time in the schedule, bring it on!

• But if time is tight or the presenter isn’t available when the crew is, we’ve got another option…

The Off-Line Rehearsal Room

This is a separate space set up for private practice.

• Two large TVs simulate the on-stage monitors.

• A producer, graphics operator, and prompter tech will be there with their gear.

• The presenter can rehearse, tweak, or rework their talk at their own pace without holding up the show.

No Presenter? Send a Stand-In.

If the presenter can’t make the walk-through, we ask that someone who knows the content and can approve it attends in their place.

Book Smart: Schedule Rehearsals Early

When locking in your venue and production timeline, don’t forget rehearsal time:

• Technical cue-to-cue?

• Walk-through with your CEO?

• Full read-through?

Ask your producer:“When will you be ready for rehearsals?”They’ll give you a window so you can schedule accordingly.

Bottom Line

Rehearsals aren’t just about practice; they’re about team alignment, confidence, and making your general session shine.

Have a great show!