Creating a clear, professional stage plot is one of the most important steps in preparing for a live performance. A well-designed stage plot shows venues, sound engineers, and crew exactly how your band or act is set up on stage — saving time, avoiding mistakes, and ensuring your show runs smoothly.
Below is a simple step-by-step guide on how to create a stage plot, plus best practices used by touring musicians and FOH engineers.
A stage plot is a visual diagram that shows the layout of performers, instruments, microphones, monitors, and equipment on stage. It is usually shared with venues and sound engineers in advance of a show and is often accompanied by an input list.
A good stage plot answers three key questions:
Step 1: Define Your Stage Size and Orientation
Start by setting the stage perspective:
Front of stage (audience side) - we do this for you!
Back of stage (drums, amps, risers)
If you know the stage dimensions, include them. If not, a generic rectangular stage layout is perfectly acceptable for most gigs.
Step 2: Add Performers and Instruments
Next, place each band member or performer on the stage plot
Provide musician names where possible, and provide any descriptions of equipment the sound engineer or venue might need to know
Label each position clearly with text like “Lead Vocal” or “power usage (”120v" or "240v")
This helps engineers instantly understand your setup.
Step 3: Include an Input List
Every stage plot should show audio inputs, with information such as
Step 4: Add Monitors and Monitoring Preferences
Floor wedges
In-ear monitors (IEMs)
Side fills (if required)
If you have specific preferences (for example, “Lead vocal in all monitors”), include them in a small notes section rather than cluttering the diagram.
Step 5: Show Amplifiers, Backline, and Power Needs
Add any relevant backline equipment: Guitar amps, Bass amps, Drum kit and Keyboard rigs
If you have special power requirements, note them clearly. This avoids last-minute issues during load-in or soundcheck.
Step 6: Keep Your Stage Plot Clean and Easy to Read
A professional stage plot should be simple, uncluttered and clearly labelled.
Avoid unnecessary graphics or long explanations on the diagram itself. If extra detail is needed, include it in a separate notes section or technical rider.
Step 7: Export and Share Your Stage Plot
Once complete, export your stage plot as a PDF for a professional look, or a URL, and share it with: Venues, Promoters, Sound engineers and Tour managers.
Sending your stage plot in advance helps ensure faster soundchecks and a smoother show day.
Stage Plot Best Practices
Use consistent symbols and labels
Always include band name and contact details
Keep one stage plot per setup (don’t combine multiple line-ups)
Update your stage plot whenever your setup changes
Create Your Stage Plot Online
Using an online stage plot creator makes the process faster and more reliable than drawing by hand. With Stage-Plan, you can: