Stagecraft

Stagecraft Frequently Asked Questions

Is stagecraft an elective? What credit do I get for taking it? Do I need any prerequisite courses?

Stagecraft fulfills your CTE (Career Technical Education) high school requirement. It is a year-long course worth ten credits, and is open to students at all levels, no prerequisites needed.

Do I have to know a lot about theater for this class?

No, we will study necessary elements of theater as we progress through the course. However, because the course focuses on the theoretical and technical aspects of theater production, an interest in the subject matter can make this work more engaging.

I know you have to work with tools in this class. What kind of safety precautions are in place?

Safety is our number one priority when working in the shop. As we introduce each tool in the shop, we make sure to outline the correct and safe procedures for using each. You must pass safety checks and tests before handing the tool, and will be supervised as you learn each one. Students have access to personal protective equipment while in the shop, and it is required that you use the appropriate equipment and dress accordingly when building in the shop.

What will we build?

The stagecraft class is responsible for building and assembling the sets for our school play and musical. While the set needs will change for each production, you can expect to build platforms, set walls, set pieces or furniture, and other props required for the show.

Do I need any special clothing or supplies?

While we supply everything you need in the shop, we do recommend that you bring comfortable clothing that you don’t mind getting dirty. Clothing and shoes will get paint and dust on them while we are building.

Should I expect to commit any of my time outside of class hours?

Because one of the goals of this class is to build the sets for our fall and spring productions, there are important days where we load in and break down the sets which occur on the weekend. You will have advanced notice of these dates and times, and can receive extra participation points by attending them.

You are also encouraged to work events in our Brunelle Theater to gain more hands on experience. These events range from school concerts and talent shows to community productions. You will have the opportunity to work alongside professionals and have the chance to set up and operate sound and lighting.

When we’re not working in the shop, what else do we learn about?

We cover a variety of technical theater topics in stagecraft, such as set, lighting, sound, and costume design. We also work with scale measurement for drafting and model building.

What jobs or career might this course help prepare me for?

There are many possible careers in technical theater that you may be interested in pursuing after high school. Former DHS students have gone on to work as professional set and lighting designers. You may also be interested in careers such as: stage management, directing, audio engineering, costume design, set painting, theater accounting and management, or stagehands.