cueoverlap

Cue overlap is a term used to describe the temporal relationship between cues in timed performances, broadcasts, and automated media systems. A cue is a signal to perform a specific action, such as changing lighting, starting or stopping a sound effect, triggering a video, or switching a piece of equipment. Cue overlap occurs when the start time of a new cue falls before the previous cue has finished its action, or when two actions are executed simultaneously. Overlap can be intentional, as part of a transition design, or unintentional, arising from miscalculation or automation errors.

In practice, cue overlap is managed in environments such as theater, live events, and broadcast control rooms. Operators program cue lists with start times and transition durations (fade ins/outs, crossfades, or overlaps). Deliberate overlap allows smooth transitions—for example, a lighting change beginning as audio fades, or a video overlay occurring while other elements remain active. Unplanned overlap can lead to conflicts, such as lighting attempting to change while a video system is simultaneously switched, producing glitches or inconsistencies.

Strategies to manage cue overlap include careful timing planning, using pre-cues to prepare actions without triggering them, implementing overlapping or crossfade transitions where appropriate, and testing cues in rehearsal or dry runs. Good practice also involves documenting dependencies between cues and ensuring devices or software support simultaneous control. By balancing deliberate overlaps with safeguards against conflicts, productions can achieve seamless transitions while minimizing risks.