In addition to working on many projects with Calvary Baptist Church, I’ve also had the privilege of providing audio/visual support for their affiliated school, Plymouth Christian Academy (PCA). As a PCA graduate myself, it’s always great to return to the campus and help put on their productions. Their middle and high school actors are incredibly talented and the plays are always very well done.
Audio Engineering for Live Events
I went to school at Lawrence Technological University to get my bachelor’s degree in Audio Engineering. Even before completing that degree program, I volunteered in Audio Engineering at Calvary Baptist Church and PCA. I loved mixing sound for their plays even as a high school student myself, and I appreciate all of the experience and many opportunities I was given. I’ve done quite a bit of audio work since then and offer Audio Engineering services, including live mixing for local events. If you’re looking for an Audio Engineer for your next event, reach out and let’s start a conversation today.
Live Mixing for Plays and Productions
Mixing sound for a play is a lot different than mixing for a concert or a church service. In a play, the audio has to follow the story. Every line matters, and if the audience misses a punchline or a key moment because a mic wasn’t up in time, it takes them out of the show. My job is to make the sound feel natural so people forget there’s even someone behind the board.
Most productions use a lot of wireless mics, and I’m following the script line by line to bring each actor up right when they speak and back down when they’re done. Leaving every mic open might sound easier, but it picks up breathing, costume rustling, and footsteps, and it makes feedback much more likely. Riding each mic cue by cue is what keeps the mix clean.
The Challenges of Audio Engineering for Theater
Every production comes with its own set of challenges, and part of the job is planning for them before opening night. A few that come up often:
Mic placement and costume changes: Lapel and headset mics need to sit in the right spot to sound good, and quick costume changes, wigs, and hats can shift them mid-show. I work with the cast and crew so mics stay secure and get checked between scenes.
Shared mics: When there are more actors than mics, some get passed between cast members during the show. That means keeping careful track of who has which mic in every scene.
Quiet voices: Student actors are often still learning to project, so I have to bring them up enough to be heard without adding feedback or harshness.
Balancing music and dialogue: Musical numbers mean blending vocals with backing tracks or live instruments so the words stay clear.
Batteries and backups: A wireless mic dying mid-scene is every sound engineer’s nightmare. Fresh batteries before every show and a backup plan are non-negotiable.
Limited rehearsal time: Tech rehearsals go fast, so I come in prepared with the script marked up and the mic plan ready.
Why Hire a Professional Audio Engineer for Your School Play or Event
A lot of schools and churches rely on volunteers for sound, and I’m a big fan of that - I’ve been a volunteer in that role many times. But for bigger productions, bringing in an experienced audio engineer can take a lot of pressure off your team. I can handle the technical side so your directors and students can focus on the performance, and I’m always happy to work alongside student or volunteer techs and show them what I’m doing along the way.
Whether it’s a school play, a musical, a church event, or a community production, good sound makes a big difference in how the audience experiences the show.
Work With D Morby Media for Live Events
I offer live sound and audio engineering services for events across Plymouth, Canton, and the Metro Detroit area. I’d love to hear about what you’re planning and talk through how I can help make it sound great. Reach out through the contact page and let’s start a conversation.