A lighting cue sheet acts as a shared reference between the lighting designer, programmer, stage manager, and lighting operator, ensuring every lighting change happens at the right moment.
At its core, a lighting cue sheet records when a lighting change happens, what that change looks like, and how it transitions. The cue sheet keeps lighting consistent and repeatable across rehearsals and performances.
Unlike creative lighting paperwork, such as mood boards or lighting plots, a cue sheet is an execution document. It exists to be used during rehearsals and shows, often under time pressure and low-light conditions, where clarity matters more than artistry.
What Is a Lighting Cue
A lighting cue is a specific moment when the lighting changes. It is not the lighting look itself, but the instruction to change from one lighting state to another.
- A lighting state describes how the stage looks, intensity, color, focus, and distribution.
- A lighting effect describes movement or behavior, such as a chase, strobe, or color roll.
- A lighting cue is the trigger point that tells the operator or console when to execute that change.
For example, a cue may occur on:
- A line of dialogue
- A musical downbeat
- A performer entering or exiting
- A scene transition
- A stage manager’s call
In practice, a cue is the bridge between the script or score and the lighting console. The cue sheet is where those bridges are documented clearly.
What Are the Key Components of a Lighting Cue Sheet
A lighting cue sheet contains standardized information that allows different crew members to interpret and execute cues the same way. While formats may vary, the following components are essential.
Cue Number
Each cue is given a unique identifier, often written as LX Q12, LQ 24, or similar. Numbering follows the order of the show and allows quick reference during rehearsals and performances.
Trigger / Cue Point
This explains when the cue happens. Triggers are usually tied to:
- A spoken line
- A musical beat or lyric
- A physical action on stage
- A scene change
Triggers should be specific and unambiguous so the operator knows exactly when to execute the cue.
Fade Time
Fade times define how quickly the lighting changes. This may include:
- Fade up time
- Fade down time
-
Crossfade duration
Clear fade timing ensures smooth transitions and prevents abrupt or unintended lighting shifts.
Lighting State Description
This is a brief description of what the lighting looks like after the cue completes. It may include:
- Intensity levels
- Color information
- Focus areas
- Mood or purpose of the cue
Script Page or Scene Reference
Including a page number, scene number, or song reference helps align the cue sheet with the script or score, especially during rehearsals.
Notes for Operator or Programmer
This space is used for reminders, warnings, or special instructions, such as manual overrides, timing sensitivities, or coordination with sound or video cues.
What a Lighting Cue Sheet Looks Like (Example Structure)
Lighting cue sheets serve different purposes throughout the production timeline. During initial rehearsals, the lighting designer uses the cue sheet as a working document, often handwritten with notes and revisions.
As rehearsals progress toward technical rehearsals, the cue sheet becomes more formalized and detailed.
Here's a basic layout:
| Cue | Trigger | Fade | Description |
| E.g., LX Q1 | E.g., House to half at pre-show announcement | E.g., 5s | E.g., House lights fade to 50%, stage remains dark |
Paper vs. Digital Cue Sheets
While traditional paper cue sheets are portable and don't require batteries, digital versions offer advantages like automatic backup, easier revision, and the ability to share updates with the entire team instantly. Many professional theaters now use a combination of digital sheets for programming and paper printouts for live operation.
Calling Cues During Tech Rehearsals
The lighting operator uses the cue sheet to execute changes at precise moments. The cue sheet guides them through exact timing, preventing missed cues or premature executions. A "cue caller" may also follow the script, verbally confirming when each cue should fire.
Programming Cues into Lighting Consoles
Before a show opens, all cues are programmed into the lighting console. The cue sheet serves as the technical reference document, ensuring that every parameter matches the designer's intent.
Adjustments Before Opening Night
Even with careful planning, cues often need tweaking after seeing the production on the full stage. The cue sheet makes these adjustments systematic and documented, preventing confusion about what changed and why.
What Makes a Lighting Cue Sheet Different From a Lighting Plot?
While both documents are essential to lighting design, they serve distinctly different purposes. Think of the lighting plot as the blueprint and the cue sheet as the operating manual.
| Feature | Lighting Cue Sheet | Lighting Plot |
| Purpose | Documents the timing and execution of light changes | Shows the physical placement and equipment needs |
| Content | Cue numbers, triggers, fade times, state descriptions | Fixture locations, types, colors, and circuit assignments |
| Used By | Operators and programmers during the show | Designer and technician during setup and focus |
| Format | Chronological list or table | Floor plan or elevation diagram |
| Timing | Specific to live performance | Prepared before technical rehearsals |
How Lighting Cue Sheets Are Used During Rehearsals and Shows
Lighting cue sheets are working documents, not just planning tools. They are actively used throughout the production process.
During technical rehearsals, cues are called, adjusted, renumbered, and refined. The cue sheet evolves as timing and transitions are tested in real conditions.
Some teams still use paper cue sheets, especially in theatre environments where operators prefer handwritten notes. Others rely on digital cue sheets, often synced with scripts or shared via cloud platforms for version control.
Lighting programmers use the cue sheet to:
- Program cues into lighting consoles
- Match console cue numbers to documented cues
- Adjust fade times and transitions
Before opening night, cue sheets are finalized, backed up, and distributed to key crew members. Once performances begin, the cue sheet becomes the authoritative reference that ensures consistency from show to show.
What Makes a Lighting Cue Sheet Different From a Lighting Plot
Although both documents are essential, they serve very different purposes. The lighting plot shows what is installed, while the cue sheet shows how it is used during the show.
| Aspect | Lighting Cue Sheet | Lighting Plot |
| Purpose | Timing and execution | Fixture placement and design |
| Used by | Operator, stage manager, programmer | Lighting designer, electricians |
| Focus | When and how lighting changes | Where lights are positioned |
| Based on | Script, score, action | Venue layout and equipment |
| Format | Table or spreadsheet | Technical drawing |
How to Create an Effective Lighting Cue Sheet
A good lighting cue sheet prioritizes clarity, reliability, and usability under pressure.
1. Start by writing cues directly from the script or score, not from memory. This ensures alignment with the performance and avoids timing drift.
2. Use clear, short descriptions that communicate function rather than artistic intent. The operator needs to know what to do, not why it feels emotional.
3. Avoid cues based on absolute time whenever possible. Live performance timing can vary, and cues tied to dialogue or action remain reliable.
4. Design formatting that remains readable in low-light environments. Use consistent spacing, legible fonts, and logical column order.
5. Finally, maintain version control and backups. Cue sheets change frequently during tech, and outdated versions can cause serious errors during performances.
Final Thought
A lighting cue sheet is not just paperwork. It is the operational backbone of live lighting. When done well, it creates confidence, precision, and repeatability. When done poorly, it introduces confusion at the exact moment clarity matters most.
Whether you are working on a small production or a complex multi-cue show, investing time in a clean, accurate cue sheet pays off every night the lights go up.
FAQ
How do I use a lighting cue sheet during a live performance?
The lighting operator follows the cue sheet sequentially, watching for the trigger (usually called out by a cue caller or indicated by stage action).
When the trigger occurs, the operator executes the cue number listed on the sheet by pressing the appropriate button on the lighting console, which plays the pre-programmed lighting state and fade time.
What information is included in a lighting cue sheet?
A comprehensive lighting cue sheet includes the cue number, script page reference, trigger point, fade time, detailed description of the lighting state (intensity, color, focus, effects), and any special notes for the operator or programmer. Some sheets also include backup information or alternate execution methods.
Can I use the same cue sheet for different performances of the same show?
Generally yes, if the script remains unchanged and the stage configuration stays the same. However, always review the cue sheet before each performance and make notes about any changes. Different venues or cast variations may require adjustments to timing or intensity levels.
What's the best way to organize cue numbers if I need to add new cues during rehearsals?
Use decimal points or letters for insert cues. For example, if you need to add a cue between Q5 and Q6, call it Q5.5 or Q5A. This keeps the original numbering intact while accommodating changes, critical for team communication.
Do I need to use lighting console software to create a cue sheet?
No. While many designers use console software or dedicated cue-sheet programs, a spreadsheet application, or even a well-formatted Word document works perfectly. Choose whatever format your team can easily access and understand.
