Technical Participation

Objective:

These participation courses are designed to give the student practical experience in the “backstage crafts” of the theatre. You will have the choice of working either a backstage running crew for one our productions this semester or a construction crew for the semester in either the scene shop or costume shop.

• Theatre 167 is designed to be the first course in theatre participation. If you have not worked in theatre on the college level, you should be enrolled in this section.
• Theatre 262 is designed for students who have either had 167 or have worked backstage in college theatre. Student enrolled in this course will be expected to demonstrate an intermediate skill level in an area of theatrical crafts and/or hold a position of minor responsibility on a show. 167 is normally prerequisite.
• Theatre 362 is an upper level course for advanced students. Prior experience is highly desirable. A person enrolled under this courses number should possess a high skill level in an area of theatre and/or hold a position of higher responsibility on a show. 262 is normally a prerequisite.

*Note: Participation courses are considered seven week courses. If you are working on a running crew your time will be considered into nine days (see schedules). The section you sign up for is determined by the production you have chosen to meet requirements.

 Options for completing course requirements:

(A) Construction Crew: You are expected to work 40 hours in either the scene shop or the costume shop during the course of the semester. Exactly what hours you work will be arranged with the supervisor of that area. In general, you are expected to spend six hours per week that the seven weeks course meets, preferably the same time each week. If you can’t be there for a previously arranged time, you must call your supervisor and arrange to make up the time. Two unexcused absences will result in your suspension from this class.

Appropriate attire is necessary for every call. If you are not properly attired you will not be allowed to work in the shop. These regulations are necessary to insure your safety and the safety of others. Please see Safety Rules and Regulations.

(B) Running Crew: You will work on the backstage running crew for one of the departmental productions this semester. You will be required to be present at all technical rehearsals, dress rehearsals and performances for that production. In addition to this you will be required to attend a run through of the show prior to technical rehearsal so that you are familiar with the production and the nature of your position on the show before technical rehearsal. All running crew members must be dressed in black pants and a long-sleeve black shirt in order to work backstage for the show.

One absence will result in your suspension from this class.