Theatre Technology

The first year curriculum is taken in collaboration with other design and technical students and is an immersion into the culture of production and design. Students explore thinking metaphorically and abstractly with an appreciation of design and technology as an aesthetic distinct from other art forms. Classes include basic construction, materials, script analysis and a technical drawing progression.  Students complete three production crew assignments in our production season and have access to the shops to hone their skills and receive guidance and critique from professional faculty and staff.  

In the second year, students begin to focus on the specifics of construction and rigging scenery for the theatre. Students continue their technical drawing progression and complete elective coursework in other design or technical areas such as lighting, projection, and sound. Students work throughout the year on productions as carpenters, lead carpenters, props artisans, and assistant technical directors, solidifying their work on small-scale shows in preparation for increased responsibility in subsequent year.

Third-year students start to develop a specific focus while continuing to hone their skills in the areas of technical direction and project management.  Students work as lead carpenters, drafters, riggers, assistant technical directors, and technical directors for the production season, working collaboratively with designers to implement and construct their designs and serving as a cohesive component of the collaborative team.

In year four, students further develop their abilities and prepare to enter the profession.  Coursework includes the preparation and study of managerial roles in theatre.  Students work in leading roles in the production season and are encouraged to complete a professional internship to expand their network and forge career pathways.