Technical Theatre

Set load-in for Unity 1918 (2020).

The Technical Theatre Diploma is a two year training program designed to prepare students for a career in professional theatrical production and stagecraft.

The Technical Theatre (TECT) program emphasizes hands-on learning. From introductory courses that cover such topics as the basics of set design and lighting theory, you’ll have the chance to put these theories into practice by working on various productions in the Theatre Department spaces.

As a TECT student, your practical work will increase as you move through the program. You’ll take part in props construction, lighting hangs and focuses, set builds and load-ins; you may work as a lighting, sound and/or fly operator; you’ll get experience in stage managment. Much of your work will be with student productions, but you’ll also have a chance to work with professional events that perform in the Blueshore.

What to Expect

Tech student Kayli Taylor running cue to cue in the Blueshore for Weasel (2023).

FAQ’s

  • Detailed instructions on how to apply and the requirements of admission can be found here.

    The first step to get into the TECT program is to apply to the university (as described above).

    Step two includes a meeting, where you'll have a discussion with TECT faculty. They'll take some time to get to know you a little, give you a chance to get to know us a little, and will share more details about the program with you. The main goal is to make sure our program is the right one for you.

    This is not a formal interview, where you might be expected to answer questions that show what you already know. Rather, it is an informal discussion, where you can learn a little more about what we do here.

  • The deadlines for applications can be found here. We begin going through applications in February, and typically review applications again sometime around May.

    If you want to be sure of getting a spot for the following fall semester, we recommend you apply during the first intake of applications.

  • Most of your classes throughout the Technical Theatre Program are practical.

    You will have some theory-based courses, including Performance History and THTR 160, Technical Theatre Fundamentals, but as you progress through the program, your courses become more focussed on practical, hands-on learning.

    For a complete list of courses by year, go here.