Stagecraft

Class 2 2024-2025

Alan Perez

alan.perez@jefferson.kyschools.us

Course Objectives:

The goal of Stagecraft is to impart the technical skills and knowledge necessary to produce scenery for a theatrical production.  It will impart a basic understanding of technical theatre processes and terminology, including the proper and safe use of both hand and power tools, various types of hardware and building materials, standard theatrical scenic pieces and how to create them, etc.  Anyone without experience in these areas will learn the necessary techniques; anyone with experience will hone those skills so as to be a more effective and efficient technician.

Course Topics:

In this class we will cover a variety of topics, each lasting from several days to over a week.  Each topic will culminate in a quiz, project, or both.  A summary of those topics is as follows.  Note that the specific order may vary.

1. Introduction to Theatrical Spaces - Types of theatres, parts of the stage, stage directions
2. The Tools of the Trade - Basic hand tools, powered hand tools (pneumatic and electric), stationary power tools
3. Building Materials - Hardware, lumber, metal, plastics, soft goods
4. Basic Scenic Elements - Reading and making shop drawings, generating cut lists, building flats and platforms
5. Scenic Paint - Scumbles, spatter, sponging, gradients

Grading Breakdown:

• Mastery - 70%

This includes satisfactory completion of the projects and homework assigned over the course of the class, as well as the final exam.

• Progression - 30%

        This includes a number of quizzes as well as being focused and engaged during class lectures, demonstrations,

and hands-on time.

Academic Dishonesty:

In the context of this class, “academic dishonesty” (i.e. plagiarism) is defined as having another person complete the majority of the work on a project you turn in as your own; receiving assistance of any kind from anyone else on a quiz or exam; and any other misrepresentation of others’ work as your own.  The first instance of dishonesty will result in a zero on the assignment; a second will result in failing the course.

Safety:

Because of the nature of the course, safety is a substantial concern.  To that end, all students will be required to wear safety glasses when in the shop unless told otherwise.  Safety glasses will be supplied, but you should bring your own.

In addition, close-toed, hard-soled shoes MUST be worn AT ALL TIMES during class.  Boots or other sturdy shoes are encouraged, but regular tennis shoes or similar are acceptable.  Note that slippers, crocs, or other very thin coverings are not considered hard-soled, and flip-flops and sandals are not close-toed.  If you come to class without appropriate attire, you WILL NOT be able to participate in any hands-on activities, and your participation grade will reflect that.

Long pants are encouraged but not required, except when covering certain topics (we’ll tell you when).  Shirts and tops should not be baggy or flowing.  Long hair should be put back.  Jewelry in general (rings, earrings) is discouraged, and loose or hanging jewelry (necklaces, bracelets) is not allowed.

Cell phones and other personal electronic devices may NOT be used AT ALL while in the shop.  This includes phone calls, texting, listening to music, etc.

ANYTHING AND EVERYTHING IN THIS SYLLABUS IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING.