Technical Theatre

The Technical Theatre program at SCPA provides students in grades 7–12 with rigorous, hands-on training in the backstage arts that bring performances to life. Through focused study in scenic design, lighting and sound, and costume design, students gain both artistic and technical skills while playing an essential role in producing more than 250 performances each year at SCPA.

Students in Technical Theatre develop a deep understanding of how sets, lights, sound, costumes, makeup, and props all work together to create the visual and auditory environment that supports storytelling on stage. Along the way, they strengthen valuable skills in design, construction, technology, and teamwork.

This major is an excellent choice for students who enjoy planning, problem-solving, working with their hands, and collaborating to bring creative visions to life. As their training progresses, students take on increasing responsibility for designing and executing productions—not only at SCPA but also through opportunities with partners in Cincinnati’s thriving arts community.

As a Career Technical Education (CTE) pathway, Technical Theatre prepares students for college programs and professional careers in entertainment, live production, and design. The curriculum blends classroom instruction with real-world production experience, allowing students to apply their learning in professional-level performances and collaborative projects.

Costume Design & Costume Construction

Students learn a wide array of skills that encompass both the artistic and the technical aspects of creating the visual look of the characters in a theatrical performance. Through an exploration of character development, fashion history, fabric manipulation, design concepts and elements, sewing, pattern work, costume maintenance and management, and a variety of textile arts, students learn to support character development and storytelling.

Stage Sound & Projection

Students learn a combination of technical skills and creative design principles through the comprehensive study of the physics of sound, audio equipment and technology, sound design principles, Foley effects, live sound reinforcement and mixing, recording, and editing to enhance the impact and storytelling of a performance.

Stage Lighting

Students learn how light is used to enhance theatrical performances through an understanding of lighting design principles, technical aspects of lighting equipment, and the operation of control systems to create specific moods, reveal form, and guide the audience's attention, all while ensuring visibility and a dynamic visual experience

Scenic Design & Construction

Students develop skills in sketching, drafting, model building, carpentry, and construction techniques needed to build and install theatrical sets, which create the physical spaces where plays unfold, supporting the actors and enhancing the audience's understanding of the play's setting and atmosphere

Stage Management

Students learn a wide range of skills and knowledge, which include everything from pre-production planning and organization, running rehearsals, coordinating performer-based and technical aspects, and overseeing performances. They develop crucial communication, leadership, and problem-solving abilities necessary for successfully managing a theatrical production.

Skills Developed

Beyond the individual and specific skills needed for a career in technical theater, the program helps students develop a range of transferable skills valuable in various careers:

Creative problem-solving

Students learn to overcome challenges and find inventive solutions to technical and design problems.

Collaboration and communication

Working in teams to bring a production to fruition fosters strong communication and teamwork skills.

Time management and organization

Managing schedules, deadlines, and the various elements of a production strengthens time management and organizational abilities.

Attention to detail

Ensuring the accuracy and quality of technical elements requires a keen eye for detail.

Career Opportunities

The learning and training received through classes in the Technical Theatre Department not only gives students an advantage when entering a collegiate theater program or working within the technical theater industry, but it also prepares individuals for a variety of careers in entertainment and other industries requiring technical and design expertise. Potential career paths include:

Theatrical production: Stage technician, lighting designer, sound engineer, costume designer, technical director, stage manager

Film and television: Set designer, prop artisan, lighting director, sound engineer, special effects technician, costume, wardrobe, and makeup artists

Live events: Event manager, conference center technician, rigging technician, pyro technician, dressers, makeup technicians.

Other: Exhibit designer, theme park attraction designer, educator, fine arts manager, architecture, and fashion design.

Technical Theatre Courses

Course Title At SCPA	State Course Number	VM or VT	Grade Level
Career Connections for Technical Theater	990364	VM	7-9
Career Connections for Technical Theater	990364	VM	7-9
Intro to Performing Arts - Costuming 1	340210	VM	7-9 Majors
Intro to Performing Arts - Costuming 2	340210	VM	7-9 Majors
Fundamentals of Costuming - Technical Theater	340252	VT	9-10
Skills and Application In Costuming	340253		9-10
Same	340260	VT	11-12
Advanced Costume and Makeup Design	340254	VT	11-12
Same	340225	VT	11-12
Costume Design Capstone	340009		10-12