SayPro Technical Guidelines for Theatre Performance Submissions.

Event: SayPro Monthly Theatre Performances
Event Date: January 2025
Organized by: SayPro Competitions Office
Purpose: To ensure that all submitted performances meet the high production standards expected by SayPro. These guidelines outline the technical specifications for video and audio quality, aiming to maintain a consistent and professional experience for both performers and viewers.

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General Guidelines

• Production Value:
  Submissions must be of a professional quality that reflects the performer’s efforts and creative vision. It is crucial that video and audio elements meet the minimum technical standards for an optimal viewing experience on both live-streamed and on-demand platforms.
• Format:
  All submitted performances should be provided in a video file format (MP4 or MOV) with the highest resolution possible. Additionally, files must be submitted with audio synced properly and ensure there are no technical glitches that could detract from the viewer experience.

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1. Video Quality Specifications

The video should be crisp, clear, and visually appealing. This is essential for maintaining the production value of the performance.

• Resolution:
  • Minimum: 1080p (Full HD).
  • Recommended: 4K (2160p) for a higher-quality viewing experience.
  • Aspect Ratio: 16:9 (Standard widescreen format).
  • Frame Rate: 30 fps (frames per second) or 60 fps for smoother motion in fast-paced scenes.
• Lighting:
  • Ensure that the performance space is well-lit.
  • Avoid harsh lighting or heavy shadows, especially on the actors’ faces. Lighting should be balanced to allow for clear visibility of all actors, set details, and props.
  • Ensure that the lighting doesn’t wash out colors or create glare on the camera lens.
• Camera Placement:
  • Camera angles should focus on the key elements of the performance (actors, scenes, and critical moments).
  • A multi-camera setup is ideal. However, a single camera angle is acceptable as long as it is stable and adequately captures the performance.
  • The camera should remain stable throughout the entire performance. Avoid unnecessary movement or zooming, as it can distract from the performance.
• Framing and Composition:
  • Ensure actors are framed properly in the shot (head and upper body visible).
  • Avoid extreme close-ups unless they are intentional for artistic reasons.
  • Pay attention to the background and environment of the frame. Ensure that the stage or performance space does not have clutter or distractions.
• Background:
  • Backgrounds should be clean and minimalistic unless the performance requires elaborate stage setups.
  • Ensure the background does not clash with the performance or distract the audience.

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2. Audio Quality Specifications

Clear, undistorted, and well-balanced audio is critical to the success of the performance. Poor audio quality can detract from the performance’s overall impact.

• Microphone Setup:
  • Ensure microphones are positioned to capture the actors’ voices clearly. If possible, use lapel or lavalier microphones for each actor or a high-quality boom microphone.
  • For musical performances, make sure instruments are properly mic’d to ensure clear audio capture.
  • Use professional-grade microphones that can accurately capture voices and other sounds without distortion.
• Audio Levels:
  • Audio should be balanced, with clear dialogue and no distortion.
  • Background music or sound effects should be mixed at an appropriate volume so they don’t overpower the dialogue or key action.
  • Make sure that there are no sudden spikes in volume that could cause distortion. Audio should be smooth and consistent throughout the performance.
• Audio Syncing:
  • Ensure that audio is perfectly synced with the video. Delays between audio and visual elements will negatively impact the viewer’s experience.
  • Double-check to ensure that all dialogue, music, sound effects, and environmental sounds are properly synced with the video.
• Noise Control:
  • Remove any unwanted background noise, such as traffic, ventilation sounds, or electrical hums.
  • If the performance is filmed in a studio or controlled environment, ensure that ambient noises (e.g., from microphones or cameras) are minimized.
  • If recording in a live performance space, ensure that external sounds are kept to a minimum to preserve the integrity of the production.
• Sound Quality:
  • Aim for crisp, clear sound where every word is audible.
  • Use high-quality recording equipment to capture the full spectrum of sound from the performers’ voices, instruments, and other on-stage effects.
  • Post-production adjustments, such as EQ (equalization), may be necessary to balance frequencies and remove any muddiness or distortion.

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3. Technical Equipment Recommendations

To ensure that the video and audio meet the necessary standards, here are some key equipment recommendations:

• Video Cameras:
  • Minimum: HD cameras capable of recording in 1080p or higher.
  • Recommended: DSLR or mirrorless cameras with manual focus, as well as cameras with interchangeable lenses for creative flexibility.
  • Alternative: High-quality smartphones with stabilization features for smaller productions.
• Microphones:
  • For Dialogue: Lapel microphones or handheld microphones for each actor.
  • For Music/Environmental Sounds: Condenser microphones or shotgun microphones to capture sound accurately.
  • For Ambient Sound: Use stereo microphones or an audio mixer to blend in any environmental or background sounds.
• Lighting:
  • Basic Lighting Kit: LED softbox lights for even lighting across the performance area.
  • Alternative: Portable ring lights or high-quality clip-on lights if working with minimal equipment.
• Video Editing Software:
  • Recommended: Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, or DaVinci Resolve for editing.
  • Basic Software: iMovie or Windows Movie Maker (for simpler edits).
• Audio Editing Software:
  • Recommended: Adobe Audition, Audacity, or Pro Tools for professional-level audio editing and mixing.

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4. File Submission Guidelines

For submissions, all performance videos and audio should adhere to the following file specifications:

• Video Format:
  • MP4 or MOV (H.264 compression for MP4).
  • Maximum file size: 5 GB (if larger, contact the SayPro Competitions Office for alternate submission options).
  • Video bitrate: At least 5,000 kbps for good quality playback.
• Audio Format:
  • MP3, WAV, or AAC for audio files.
  • Bitrate: At least 192 kbps for MP3 files, or uncompressed WAV files for higher quality.
• File Naming:
  • Use a clear naming convention for each file:
    Example: [Performance Name][Company Name][Date]_[Video or Audio].
    (e.g., “RomeoAndJuliet_SayTheatre_010525_Video.mp4”).
• Submission Platform:
  • Submit via the SayPro platform’s designated upload portal. Ensure that all required fields (e.g., description, cast, director) are completed as part of the submission.

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5. Troubleshooting Tips

If technical issues arise during the recording or submission process, here are some common troubleshooting tips:

• Video Sync Issues:
  • Ensure that the video was recorded and exported at the correct frame rate (30 fps or 60 fps). Check that the audio and video are in sync during editing before final export.
• Poor Audio Quality:
  • Ensure microphones are properly positioned and check for any electrical interference during recording. Consider using external microphones if the built-in mic on a camera isn’t performing adequately.
• Lighting Problems:
  • If there are shadows or overexposed areas, try adjusting the light placement or adding diffusers to soften the light.
  • For evening or low-light settings, consider adding extra lighting fixtures or using natural light sources if available.

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Conclusion

Following these SayPro Technical Guidelines will help ensure that the theatre performances meet the high standards expected by both the judges and the audience. Proper technical preparation is essential for providing a professional, engaging, and enjoyable experience, both during the live-streaming of performances and in the on-demand viewing. Ensuring that video and audio quality is up to par allows performers to showcase their work at its highest potential and creates a positive experience for the viewers.