In theatre, the running crew (also run crew) are members of the technical crew who supervise and operate ("run") the various technical aspects of the production during a performance.[1][2] While the "technical crew" includes all persons other than performers involved with the production, such as those who build and take down the sets and place the lighting, the term "running crew" is generally limited to those who work during an actual performance.
The term is typically not applied to crew or department heads, although there are exceptions. The running crew may include performers if they also function in technical capacities while offstage.