Rigging is much more than simply bringing in and out the curtains.

Riggers work the pulleys, ropes and locks throughout each show: a duty that needs intense training.

In order to become rigging certified, the riggers of the show have to go to a district-wide lecture for two days, each lasting until 10 p.m..

At the end of the two days of lecture, they then have to take a test and score a 100 percent in order to pass certification.

Their job is dangerous since they are working up in the rafters with dangerous equipment. Every time weight is added to an electric or bar, the amount of weight has to be adjusted by a rigging technician. One false move and the entire bar may collapse on the stage. Accuracy is vital.

Behind the stage there is a door that leads to a high ceiling cement room with a ladder screwed to the wall. This is the ladder that the rigging leader goes up and down frequently to get in the rafters/scaffolding above the stage.

Located in the scaffolding are all the locks which work the pulleys that move the curtains and electrics.

During rehearsals, the riggers bring the electrics down for the lighting crew to change the lights/gels or to aim them. They do the same for the sound crew, as well.

Members: The only member of the “Oklahoma!” Rigging Crew was rigging leader Chanel Mullen (12).

“I enjoy the the technical value of knowing these skills because it’s not a job you come along into like the other crews. You have to be formally trained to actually get near the system because it’s dangerous,” Mullen said. “It’s really satisfying that I’m to the point where I can just go through the duties and it’s completely normal. I can do everything just like breathing, which I feel like is such an achievement.”