Technical Theatre

A guide to the different types of props, and a sorting activity to help students identify props by category (scenic props, hand props, set dressing).

A series of Technical Theatre activities designed for distance learning.

Have students brainstorm alternative lighting options for a scene when you can’t use a traditional lighting rig. What do they come up with? How can they experiment with existing lighting sources? (For example: flashlights) Sometimes their options will be the best options.

Use this poster for your scene shop - to keep actors and crew focused on safety.

Access the Practical Technical Theatre digital programs. Included in your DTA membership, with 10 programs to choose from. Click the link to access - includes unique codes for student access to videos and handouts.

Here is one way to set up a stage management staff at your school. You know your students the best and you know that some can handle more responsibility and some may be better suited to certain tasks. Make sure your PSM is the one who represents the team especially to the actors.

If you have asked the question “what do my tech students do when I’m directing the show?” then these worksheets are for you. You can include your technical theatre team from day one by using these worksheets to have your students plan, find, organize, and execute the elements of technical theatre.

How do you teach tech, or use tech in your productions when you don’t have the expertise or the equipment? How do you make it work? How do you problem solve? Topics include Lighting, Set Design, Costumes, and Sound.

This resource will help you integrate technical theatre and include your technical theatre team from Day 1 of your rehearsal process. This will help you have an easier experience throughout and reduce the stress of tech week! In this resource, you will learn: • How to prepare students to take on leadership and creative challenges in various technical theatre roles. • The importance of an artistic vision and budget. • How to get your admin on board. • How to prepare a rehearsal schedule that integrates your technical theatre teams. • How to create a pre-show schedule to make sure everything is ready for show time.

A one-sheet to help students understand the difference between a prop and a costume piece.