Technical Theatre at Stages Theatre

Technical Theatre Opportunities for Youth

 
Are you interested in learning what happens behind the curtains? Working on a running crew is a great way to learn how the magic of theatre is made. Running crew is the term for people who work behind the scenes while the performance is happening. For many positions, you do not need any backstage experience, we will train you.
We use youth running crew in the following positions:
  • Light Board Operator: Operate lights during the show, taking cues from the stage manager.
  • Sound Board Operator: Operate sound and microphones during the show, taking cues from the stage manager. Operating the sound board is for youth with extensive theatre experience only.
  • Back stage crew: Assists the assistant stage manager with scene shifting, control of props and set during the show, costume changes, or other backstage duties.
  • Follow spot operator: Follow actors with a moveable light, taking cues from the stage manager.
All crew may participate in the following: set up the stage before the performance, resetting the stage after the performance, sweeping and mopping the stage, assisting with light or sound check.
Want more information about working backstage? Email Us!
 
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Performances are when I am in school, how does that work?
If you are on the running crew, you will need to work the school-day shows. We understand that learning is first job of a young person. It is for each family to decide how to strike a balance between learning in the school environment and learning outside the classroom. We will provide information for you to bring to your school. We require that you return this form to us, with signature, to show us that you have talked with your teachers and school and that they know you will be involved in performances on those dates. For some positions, it can be possible to split a position between two crew members. This would cut the number of days off of school in half.
What if I have conflicts?
It is important for the running crew to be in attendance at all of the required rehearsals. We may be able to make accommodations, if there are two people sharing one position.STC-Technical-3
I can’t attend all of the performances; can I still be on the crew?
While we prefer a crew member who can work all of the performances, some jobs can be shared by two crew members. You will be expected to be available for half of the school-day shows and half of the weekend/evening shows.