ABSTRACT
This chapter begins with an introduction to general electrical theory and the means by which lighting designers measure electricity and relate these elements to one another. It presents information related to how power is created and distributed, and describes basic electrical equipment. The chapter deals with several applications that are fairly common to stage electrics as well as provide some troubleshooting and safety guidelines for working as a stage electrician. Wires are made of metals, which are generally very good conductors of electricity because they readily allow electrons to flow through them. The most important means of electrical power creation is through generators and electromagnetism. A generator is nothing more than a device that allows mechanical motion to be transferred into electrical potential or power. Electrical power can be provided to a customer in one of several configurations. The actual configuration or service is dependent on the number of wires that are brought into a building at the service entrance.
