I thought that the show went together very well. I also enjoyed how we got to contribute to it. Truthfully, it made me want to do theater again. Kenny (Age 16) Technical Theatre Major 2008
Philosophy
In one of the only programs of its kind for young theatre professionals, TAP students will learn the latest technologies as they create set models, light plots and costume renderings. With equal emphasis on creative exploration and technical skill we work towards the final showcase where the talents of our amazing students meet real-world experience in the preparation for the final showcase.
Curriculum
The students spend their mornings in design classes, learning about scenery and costume design from concept to creation. Students create set models and engage in costume design projects.
Course Descriptions
Costume Design
Students examine the equipment, terminology, and technical skills required to create costumes for dramatic productions. Emphasis is on the elements of design, including the concept, tools, fabric selection and rendering/presentation.
Scenic Design
In this overview of concept creation, creative thinking and practical skills, students will gain a basic knowledge of the tools and plans necessary to create groundbreaking theatrical designs.
Scenic Construction
Starting from the beginning students gain practical knowledge of materials, terminology and technical skills, including wood, metal and rigging skills.
Stage Makeup
This class covers the basics used to create a variety of character looks, including youth, old age and character oddities. As class time permits, specialty makeup applications may also be explored, including fantasy and injury makeup.
Stage Management
This course is an overview of all of the stage manager responsibilities and an introduction to the techniques used to be a successful stage manager. This course will cover prompt scripts, rehearsal reports, cast lists, blocking notation and the notation and calling of lighting, sound and scenery cues during performance.
Lighting Design
Let there be light! Through the study of electrical theory, color theory, control systems, equipment, terminology and technical skills, students will learn the basic necessities of lighting for a stage performance. Course emphasizes aesthetics and interpretation and lighting as an art form and its effect upon other aspects of theatre. Drafting as it relates to the completion of lighting plots and the associated paperwork will be taught, as will the reading of light plots and paperwork with a focus on patching, hanging and focusing.
Sound Design and System Application
Sound design is a relatively new addition to the professional requirements for theatrical events. Campers will be introduced to new equipment, as well as develop an understanding of the basic requirements of sound techniques and equipment. Coursework will include specific study on how to design a sound system, select equipment to meet specific application requirements and execute the design. Participants will also look at the process of theatrical sound design and application, including specialty topics such as building sound effects.
Specials
Technical Theatre Majors have the opportunity to tour the inner workings of Bass Concert Hall, the largest theatre venue in Austin. These students may also take make-up classes with David Valdes. David is a master at make-up for the stage. Beginners take the basics while more advanced students learn old age and scarring methods. Guest artists may be brought in for special topics such as Stage Combat, Resume Creation, Film Acting, etc.
Practicum
While performance majors are rehearsing for the final showcase, Technical Theatre majors are either acting as stage managers for various rehearsals, building and painting scenery or working on technical aspects of film production.
Showcase
Students work with Larry Lehew to design lights and sound for the cabaret performances and for the final showcase. They also assist in designing, building and painting the set. The students each take on a crew position for the show including, but not limited to: light board operator, sound board operator, multi-media operator and spotlight operator. The technical theatre students all perform in at least one piece in the final showcase.
