Master Techniques for Live Production Technical Theatre Production Essentials
Technical Theatre Production Essentials provides you with a unique opportunity to learn about and gain practical experience in technical theatre production.
You will work with industry specialists to learn about the key principles and practices of technical theatre production, including how to create meaning and character through lighting, sound, costume, and scenic construction. The course culminates in a work experience opportunity in a live theatre setting, supporting a public production. The course also includes a nationally recognised IOSH qualification in Health & Safety which is transferable and a useful asset in a professional setting.
This course is suitable for beginners, no previous experience is required.
Why take the course?
What makes this an especially relevant and exciting course, is that you will study technical theatre techniques and apply them within an industry-standard theatre setting, while supporting a public production. Beyond this, you will also learn about key health and safety practices and acquire useful project management skills, helping you to work towards a career in technical theatre.
Technical Theatre Production Essentials is designed to improve understanding, knowledge, and practice in the following core areas:
- Lighting design
- Sound Design and Operation
- Stage Management
- Costume and Make-up
- Props
- Set Design & Scenic Construction
- Health and Safety in a Theatre Environment
- Careers Guidance
Lighting design and Operation
These sessions will cover the fundamental aspects to lighting design and operation within a theatrical setting. You will design an effective lighting plot for a live performance that meets a director’s vision, and learn the essentials for operating a lighting desk.
Sound Design and Operation
You will be introduced to the key principles of sound design and how to achieve the requirements for effective sound balance in live performance. You will also learn how to build sound cues and operate a sound desk in situ.
Stage Management
Stage Management is a key function that pulls all production elements together, culminating in overseeing vital operations in technical rehearsals and live performance. The role of a Stage Manager will be studied and you will learn practically by shadowing a working Stage Manager within a Performers College production. This will include understanding the core responsibilities of a Deputy Stage Manager and their working relationship with the technical teams.
Costume, Make-up and Props
Workshops in costume, props, and stage make-up will feature on the course, to aid your understanding of these crucial departments in theatre production.
Set Design & Scenic Construction
During these sessions, you will learn how to create a basic set design, that works within a given budget and is achievable logistically and artistically. There will be the opportunity to be involved in set construction during an active production setting.
Health and Safety in a Theatre Environment
You will be introduced to the key health and safety elements that should be implemented and overseen within a theatre production environment, including get-in and get-out protocols and risk assessments. The work you undertake within this element of the course will mean you are eligible to be awarded a nationally recognised IOSH qualification in Health & Safety.
Careers Guidance
Towards the end of the course, there will be the opportunity for a Q&A with an industry professional, where you can gather tips and advice to help you develop your career within the industry.
Duration and location
Mode of Attendance: Full-time
Duration: 4 weeks
Locations: Birmingham and Manchester
Entry requirements
Minimum Age: 18 at the start of the course.
This course is open enrolment and there are no entry requirements.
In order to get the most out of the course, you should be able to both speak and write in English to a reasonable standard.
Please be aware that we have a limited number of places available for each course intake and operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
Dates and fees
Course dates:
- Manchester: 27th May – 20th June 2025
- Birmingham: 2nd June – 27th June 2025
Course fees: £2,400
Any questions?
Our enquiries team is always available to answer your questions. Just call 01273 840 346 or email [email protected]