Technical Theatre Course Listing
Costuming for the Stage
Prerequisite: None
This course provides an overview of the costume design process. It traces the development of a costume design, from initial reading, through construction, to final presentation on the stage. During week one, we’ll select and analyze a play, and delve into character development through costuming. In week two, students will learn the art of costume rendering. The last two weeks of coursework are dedicated to creating costumes and accessories. The class will take a field trip to a local theatre to “pull” a costume from stock, and each student will also choose a costume or accessory to build from scratch.
Sound Reinforcement: Principles, Design and System Application
Prerequisite: Stagecraft
This class explores sound reinforcement with an emphasis on how it relates to the theatre. Study will include the principles of audio/acoustic theory and the equipment used in sound reinforcement, with attention given to sound reinforcement for theatrical application. You will gain a solid foundation from which to continue building a working knowledge of audio technology. Class participants will have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience through the creation of certain aspects of the Mainstage Musical sound reinforcement.
NOTE: If you have previously taken Sound Reinforcement, we invite you to take this class again, as course topics and instruction levels will adjust each year to match the experience and knowledge levels of the students enrolled.
Stagecraft: Basics of Scenery Construction
Prerequisite: None
Theatre is creating an illusory reality. The scenic carpenter transforms the designer’s vision from paper to stage. Course participants will learn the safe operation of hand and power tools in a hands-on experience that covers both the mechanics and artistry of scenery construction. Using tricks of the trade, you’ll take an element of the Mainstage Musical set from paper to reality alongside the professional staff of scenic carpenters. You will leave this class with a general introduction to stagecraft and a basic overview of scenic design, with specific knowledge in the equipment and techniques used to build it. Completion of this course can be a springboard to membership on the running crew for the Mainstage Musical!
Stage Lighting
Prerequisite: Stagecraft
This course provides an overview of the mechanics and artistry of lighting for stage performance. General lighting design concepts will be highlighted, along with specific knowledge of the lighting equipment and techniques used for stage application. You will gain a basic working knowledge of the skills needed to become a theatrical electrician. The main thrust of coursework will be “hands-on” learning, including excursions to view various local theater lighting systems, handling of actual equipment, and student design and implementation of lighting applications. Time may also be devoted to studying and implementing the lighting design for the Mainstage Musical.
Stage Makeup
Prerequisite: None
Makeup is an essential step to creating a character for the stage. Every good actor should know how to correctly apply makeup for each character he or she portrays. This class covers the basic makeup application techniques used to create a variety of character looks, including youth, old age, glamour and character oddities. As class time permits, specialty makeup applications may also be explored, including animal, fantasy, and injury makeup. Be a better actor. Be a better technician. Learn the do’s and dont’s of stage makeup application.
NOTE: If you have previously taken Stage Makeup, we invite you to take this class again, as course topics and instruction levels will adjust each year to match the experience and knowledge levels of the students enrolled.
ALSO: The purchase of a $45 personal makeup kit is strongly recommended. Kits will be available for purchase on the first day of class. If financial barriers preclude the kit purchase, please contact TPAS for assistance.
Scenic Design Basics
Prerequisite: None
This is a hands-on, brains-on class, introducing the basic principles, skills and techniques of designing for the theatre. Through exercises geared to stimulate imagination and potential as a designer, students will learn how to collaborate and brainstorm with a production team to develop an effective concept for their project. Working from a solid concept, students will then explore methods of solving design problems using creative research, practical experimentation, unexpected connections and positive limitations. Finally, they will learn how to communicate their design concepts and solutions. Students will explore a varied array of theatrical design areas, such as set, costumes, props, lights, and graphics. Time will be allotted for completion of class-related projects, however, students should plan on some out-of-class work as well.