Procedure For a Tornado Drill

Stage Manager Makes The Ultimate Call As To Stop A Performance!!!If this decision is made, the following must happen:

1. ASM calls out from backstage "Stop Please, we have a problem backstage." Then proceeds down Center and delivers the "Weather Speech."

2. As the "Weather Speech" is being given:

The sound (if on) is faded out, then the sound operator immediately goes to inform front of house staff and alert the staff member on call.

The house lights are brought up quickly.

The back stage worklights are turned on.

The crew heads for the side exits closet to the stage to hold doors and direct the flow of traffic to the basement.

The light board operator takes out the stage lights.

Stage Manager delivers the "Weather Speech."

NO ONE may leave the basement until clearance has been given by either a faculty member or the Police or Fire Department. If it is determined that the problem has been solved and the situation is safe, the performance may resume when all are safely back in the theatre.

ABOVE ALL REMAIN CALM

Weather Speech:

Ladies and gentlemen, we have a weather emergency. We are going to file out of the theatre to the basement as directed by rows. Remain calm and we will begin the evacuation immediately. Thank you.

In the event of a real tornado, earthquake or other natural disaster, the stage manager and booth crew should evacuate themselves as soon as possible. Do not stage to assist with the audience. Emergency professionals suggest as many staff members get out of a large auditorium space as quickly as they can. Once the emergency is over the event staff who know the building may be needed to search for survivors. As stark as this may sound, it is the best policy in the wake of a serious weather disaster.