What does a prompter do in theater?

In theater, a prompter is a member of the production team who is responsible for assisting the actors with their lines and cues. They generally are seated at a desk or table in an elevated room overlooking the stage. While the production is running, the prompter follows the script to ensure that the performances progress smoothly. Their tasks include:

1. Assisting Actors with Lines: The prompter monitors the actors' performances and provides subtle prompts when actors forget or skip a line. They are discreet, ensuring that the audience doesn't notice their involvement unless an actor is unexpectedly stuck.

2. Cueing Actors and Sound Effects: The prompter provides visual or audible cues to the actors to help them remember their entrances and exits, as well as when to perform certain actions. They may also offer cues to the sound technicians for music or sound effects.

3. Managing Technical Elements: Prompters may coordinate with the lighting and sound design, giving precise cues for lighting changes or sound effects to support the actors' performances.

4. Coordinating Backstage Activities: In some productions, the prompter serves as a liaison between the backstage crew and the actors, communicating updates or changes to ensure smooth coordination.

The role of the prompter is crucial for successful theater performances, particularly complex productions with multiple characters, scenes, and cues. They work closely with the director and actors, ensuring that the intended vision of the production is fully realized. However, prompters strive to be as unobtrusive as possible so that the audience can enjoy the performance without being consciously aware of their presence.