What is a production intercom system and how does it work?

A production intercom (comms) system is the communication backbone that connects the stage manager, audio, video, lighting, and other production departments during a live event. It allows the show caller to give cues and the technical team to coordinate in real time without the audience hearing any of it.

Intercom systems use two main station types. Panels are desktop stations placed at fixed positions like FOH, backstage command, or the lighting console. Beltpacks are wearable units with headsets used by crew members who need to move around the venue. Both can be wired (connected by cable to a central intercom station) or wireless (using radio frequency to communicate without cables).