Stagecraft
This hands-on course in theatrical design emphasizes backstage elements, and it is geared for students interested in art, design, construction, and theatre. Students see their work produced on stage for the community as they create the technical aspects of productions for MHHS Encore Company plays throughout the year. They construct and paint sets; build and organize props; and design sound and lights. Additionally, students design and manage publicity for the plays by making posters, table tents, tickets, programs, lobby displays, and writing newspaper advertisements. Participation in the after school backstage operation of the plays (lights, sound, grips) is optional and encouraged. Competition in the district and state drama tournaments is also an option, but it is not mandatory.
Click the link for some recent design pictures
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1AE3tWTaD9D30L2rwIjpLtdSSdPEHQ0YFYUIyk_XoTuM/edit?usp=sharing
**Stagecraft students are admitted FREE to Encore Co. productions.
Bring Paint Clothes
Much of our class time is spent on stage in a construction-like zone. Please come dressed to work or bring clothes to dress down, including shoes you don't care about. You will work AND PAINT in whatever you wear to class, so be prepared. Your brand new school shoes don't want paint on them 8)
Be a Techie
- Technicians are always needed for the successful operations of our productions. There are several ways for you to be involved after school if you choose. Be sure to check the rehearsal/production calendar to make sure the after school commitment works for you before you sign up.
- Sound Technician
- Lighting Technician
- Grips
- House Assistants
Classroom Instruction Includes:
- · Pre-Test
· Production Staff
· Construction & Safety
· Scenic Painting
· Elements of Design
· Poster Design
· Elements of Set Design
· Production Concept—Director’s Vision
· Set Design with Google Sketchup
· Drill Workshop
· Set Construction and Painting
· Sound Design for production
· Sound Mixing Project
· Prop Design
· Prop Acquisition & Organization
· Elements of Lighting Design
· Lighting Tech and Operation
· Special Effects Makeup / Masks
· Production Concept Design--
Set Model Presentation
· 1st & 2nd Quarter Assessments
· Post-Test
Competition Opportunity
Design props, set, makeup or costumes for any published play or musical and showcase your design work at the District IV Drama Competition in November. You could qualify to compete at the state level in December. Be sure to check the event rules under the competition tab of this website. Competition is not a requirement for this class, but if you choose to compete, you will gain valuable experience, and see what other schools are producing.
Grading Criteria
- Daily participation and work ethic is key to a successful grade in this class, and being in class to participate is an important part of the educational experience. After four absences (per quarter), zeros will be given for participation regardless of the reason for the absence, excused or unexcused. Outside assignments will not be offered to increase your grade.
- Production design and construction is the main objective of our class, so the bulk of your grade will be generated by designing and constructing for productions.
- Design projects are offered when production work is complete.
- Quarter Assessments are multiple choice.
- Semester grade is the average of the two quarter grades.
- Late work is not acceptable.
- If you are absent, find out what you missed and make up the work. If you are absent when a project is due, you are expected to submit it upon return.