SOH-C916C Indoor Technical Providers Panel - Sub-Panel 7: Backline Hire Services

⁠⁠⁠Sydney Opera House is looking to engage suitable organisations that may be invited to provide Backline Hire services under the Indoor Technical Providers Panel.

Backline Hire Overview

Backline hire services at the Sydney Opera House are booked and coordinated via the Production Management Team. The supply of performance equipment and instruments is in accordance with the request detailed in the Artist’s Technical Rider. Currently, SOHT stages up to 2,500 shows per year across its six internal venues. Of these shows, anywhere between 300 to 1000 per annum may require backline hire due to these items not being part of the Opera House’s existing installed or deployable inventory. 

Items Typically Hired

SOHT typically requires the following items for backline hire:

• Instruments: keyboards, electric and acoustic guitars, drums, electric pianos, orchestral instruments, percussion (e.g. timpani, Marimba, xylophones, chimes).

• Sound Equipment: speakers, amplifiers, converters, DI’s, effects pedals, stage boxes.

• Stage Equipment: band stage risers.

• Miscellaneous: Stools, chairs, instruments stand, music stands.

• Specialised Equipment; DJ consoles and associated equipment.

In an example of an exceptional circumstance, SOHT may backline hire a concert grand piano for an outdoor event on the forecourt. 

Technicians for Backline Hire

In most instances of backline hire at the Opera House, contracted Backline Technicians are required for set up and to be on standby to respond to any technical issues that may arise during rehearsals and show. Infrequently, artists will hire backline equipment without request for a technician. The Production Management Team will specify whether or not technicians are required when an RFQ is issued.

All Technicians must be suitably qualified and experienced. Technicians must be available during event preparation to setup equipment and provide general assistance, provide troubleshooting, and be on standby for the duration of performance and/or event.

Technicians must be available via telephone for support and communication on weekends and public holidays as required.

Technicians must be professional and respectful to maintain a fair and harmonious workplace. All Personnel are obliged to act in accordance with Sydney Opera House’s Code of Conduct, referenced in SOH Event Guide Section 8.2.5.

All Personnel are required to carry out work safely in accordance with NSW Workplace Health and Safety legislation. Specific safety processes for Sydney Opera House are referenced in SOH Event Guide Section 8 Risk Management & Safety.

Primary contact:

Charlotte Ibbotson

Email: cibbotson@sydneyoperahouse.com

Telephone: 02 9250 7241