Stage Management and Technical Theatre BA (Hons)

Course Overview

This broad programme encompasses training in a wide range of practical skills related to stage management, stagecraft, technical theatre, event production and event management. It provides opportunities for you to gain practical experience in a variety of production roles within a working environment that reflects as closely as possible that of the professional theatre and its related industries. The priority is to ensure that you are well equipped to be able to respond to the ever-changing needs of a diverse industry.

The first year introduces you to the basic principles of stage management and production organisation through a series of practical classes focussing on the role and duties of the ASM and DSM. You will learn to create call sheets and rehearsal reports and take part in a prop-sourcing project. In the second year, the Stage Management module focusses on financial planning and production scheduling, and you take part in a planning project for a small international theatre tour.

Technical Skills modules introduce the work of the theatre technician and you will learn to rig and operate a wide range of theatre lighting, sound, video and power distribution equipment. You will also develop an understanding of the principles and processes of sound design and lighting design for theatre.

Teaching and Learning

Throughout your training, you will receive guidance and support from an established core team of staff, with considerable input from a wider range of experienced professional practitioners, including visiting directors and production supervisors.

Outside of contact hours, you will be expected to extend your learning and develop your creative practice through reading widely, undertaking independent research and attending a broad range of theatrical performances.

The course is extremely demanding, and is designed to reflect, as accurately as possible, the practices and conditions you will find within the wider industry. It requires you to demonstrate and develop the physical, mental and emotional resources and stamina that you will need to build and sustain a successful career in the theatre and live events industry.

Assessment

The majority of modules are assessed on a continuous basis. The criteria for assessment reflect the working practices of the professional environment, and the skills required of its practitioners.