DTA | Introduction to Technical Theatre: Flipped Learning

When an audience watches a piece of theatre, they never see what goes on behind the scenes or know the people who work to make the production look its best. But theatre is a collaboration between what happens onstage and off.

This flipped learning unit will introduce students to the world of technical theatre. Through video, they will learn information on specific technical theatre roles and how they work together, types of stages, parts of a theatre and stage geography, and then apply this knowledge through in-class active-learning exercises.

For example, students will take on the role of a producer and decide how a budget will be divided among different departments. They will practice the calls a stage manager uses. The culminating assignment has students solve a common technical theatre issue: to design, create, and implement a solution for a unique stage direction in a play.

Unit Summary

Standards Addressed

flipped learning technical theatre

Overview

The overview lays out the structure of the unit, including time management, procedures for flipped learning, video details, and an overview of the lessons.

Additional Attachments

Troubleshooting Hyperdocs

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1: Pre-Knowledge

Experience Tech Theatre: Students will explore how technical theatre affects storytelling.

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2: Theatre Hierarchy

This lesson introduces students to the various roles in the theatre and how they make up a hierarchy. Students take on the role of one of these three important roles in a theatre production through an activity.

Attachments

Hyperdoc: Theatre Hierarchy

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3: Technical Director and Tech Crews / Stage Manager and Running Crews

Students are introduced to two groups of technical theatre roles and the people in charge of those groups: the technical director and tech crews and the stage manager and running crews. Students will take on the role of a stage manager and practice the calls a stage manager would use.

Attachments

Hyperdoc: Technical Director/Stage Manager/Crews

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4: Common Types of Theatres & Stages

Students review the three most common types of theatre stages used today: proscenium, thrust, and arena stages. Students create the audience for a specific type of stage in a warm-up, and then in groups, students work to stage a fairy tale using the three different theatre configurations.

Attachments

Hyperdoc: Common Types of Theatres & Stages

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5: Stage Geography & Parts of a Theatre

Students learn about stage geography and parts of a theatre. Students practice stage geography in a warm-up, and then participate in a group activity where they are given random stage geography positions and have to present a scene from those positions.

Attachments

Hyperdoc: Stage Geography & Parts of a Theatre

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6: Culminating Activity

Students design, create, and implement a solution for the famous “exit, pursued by a bear” stage direction from Shakespeare’s The Winter’s Tale.

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Standards Addressed

National Core Arts Standards

Develop and refine artistic techniques and work for presentation - Grade HS Advanced

TH:Pr5.1.HSIII.b - Explain and justify the selection of technical elements used to build a design that communicates the concept of a drama/theatre production.

Refine new work through play, drama processes and theatre experiences using critical analysis and experimentation - Grade 6

TH:Cr3.1.6.c - Explore a planned technical design during the rehearsal process for a devised or scripted drama/theatre work.

Apply criteria to evaluate artistic work - Grade 7

TH:Re9.1.7.b - Consider the aesthetics of the production elements in a drama/theatre work.

Refine new work through play, drama processes and theatre experiences using critical analysis and experimentation - Grade 7

TH:Cr3.1.7.c - Consider multiple planned technical design elements during the rehearsal process for a devised or scripted drama/theatre work.

Convey meaning through the presentation of artistic work - Grade 8

TH:Pr6.1.8.a - Perform a rehearsed drama/theatre work for an audience.

Refine new work through play, drama processes and theatre experiences using critical analysis and experimentation - Grade 8

TH:Cr3.1.8.c - Implement and refine a planned technical design using simple technology during the rehearsal process for devised or scripted drama/ theatre work.

Apply criteria to evaluate artistic work - Grade HS Proficient

TH:Re9.1.HSI.b - Consider the aesthetics of the production elements in a drama/theatre work.

Refine new work through play, drama processes and theatre experiences using critical analysis and experimentation - Grade HS Proficient

TH:Cr3.1.HSI.c - Refine technical design choices to support the story and emotional impact of a devised or scripted drama/ theatre work.

Refine new work through play, drama processes and theatre experiences using critical analysis and experimentation - Grade HS Accomplished

TH:Cr3.1.HSII.c - Re-imagine and revise technical design choices during the course of a rehearsal process to enhance the story and emotional impact of a devised or scripted drama/theatre work.

Common Core

Speaking and Listening

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.CCRA.SL.1 - Prepare for and participate effectively in a range of conversations and collaborations with diverse partners, building on others' ideas and expressing their own clearly and persuasively.

Language

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.CCRA.L.1 - Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English grammar and usage when writing or speaking.

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.CCRA.L.2 - Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English capitalization, punctuation, and spelling when writing.

Language

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.L.9-10.1 - Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English grammar and usage when writing or speaking.

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.L.9-10.2 - Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English capitalization, punctuation, and spelling when writing.

California VAPA Standards (2019)

6.TH:Pr4 Select, analyze, and interpret artistic work for presentation.

6.TH:Pr4.b - Experiment with various physical choices to communicate character in a drama/theatre work.

6.TH:Cr2 Organize and develop artistic ideas and work.

6.TH:Cr2.b - Contribute ideas and accept and incorporate the ideas of others in preparing or devising drama/theatre work.

7.TH:Cr2 Organize and develop artistic ideas and work.

7.TH:Cr2.b - Demonstrate mutual respect for self and others and their roles in preparing or devising drama/theatre work.

7.TH:Pr5 Develop and refine artistic techniques and work for presentation.

7.TH:Pr5.b - Choose a variety of technical theatre elements that can be applied to a design in a drama/theatre work.

8.TH:Pr5 Develop and refine artistic techniques and work for presentation.

8.TH:Pr5.b - Use a variety of technical theatre elements to create a design for a rehearsal or drama/theatre production.

Acc.TH:Cr2 Organize and develop artistic ideas and work.

Acc.TH:Cr2.b - Cooperate as a creative team to make interpretive choices for a drama/theatre work.

Adv.TH:Pr5 Develop and refine artistic techniques and work for presentation.

Adv.TH:Pr5.b - Explain and justify the selection of technical theatre elements used to build a design that communicates the concept of a drama/theatre production.

Adv.TH:Cr2 Organize and develop artistic ideas and work.

Adv.TH:Cr2.b - Collaborate as a creative team to discover artistic solutions and make interpretive choices in a devised or scripted drama/theatre work.

6.TH:Cr3 Refine and complete artistic work.

6.TH:Cr3.c - Explore planned designs during the rehearsal process for a devised or scripted drama/theatre work.

7.TH:Cr3 Refine and complete artistic work.

7.TH:Cr3.c - Consider multiple planned technical theatre elements and designs during the rehearsal process for a devised or scripted drama/theatre work.

7.TH:Re9 Apply criteria to evaluate artistic work.

7.TH.Re9.c - Analyze and evaluate the aesthetics of the technical theatre elements in a drama/theatre work.

8.TH:Pr6 Convey meaning through the presentation of artistic work.

8.TH:Pr6 - Perform a rehearsed, scripted scene from a drama/theatre work for an audience.

8.TH:Cr3 Refine and complete artistic work.

8.TH:Cr3.c - Implement and refine a planned design using technical theatre elements during the rehearsal process for devised or scripted drama/theatre work.

Prof.TH:Cr3 Refine and complete artistic work.

Prof.TH:Cr3.c - Refine design choices using technical theatre elements to support the story and emotional impact of a devised or scripted drama/theatre work.

Prof.TH:Re9 Apply criteria to evaluate artistic work.

Prof.TH.Re9.c - Analyze and evaluate the aesthetics and effect of the technical theatre elements in a drama/theatre work.

Acc.TH:Cr3 Refine and complete artistic work.

Acc.TH:Cr3.c - Re-imagine and revise design choices using technical theatre elements during the course of a rehearsal process to enhance the story and emotional impact of a devised or scripted drama/theatre work.

Florida Sunshine State Standards

Critical Thinking & Reflection

TH.912.C.2.3 - Analyze different types of stage configurations to determine the effects of each as potential production solutions.

Skills, Techniques & Processes

TH.912.S.1.7 - Interpret dramatic texts, organize and conduct rehearsals, and justify directorial choices for formal and informal productions.

TH.912.S.1.8 - Use research to extract clues in dramatic texts to create performances or technical elements, choosing those that are most interesting and that best convey dramatic intent.

Georgia Performance Standards 2017 - Theatre Arts

Grade 7 - Creating

TA7.CR.1 - Organize, design, and refine theatrical work.
a. Identify and rehearse effective communication skills.
b. Compare and contrast character types and relationships by analyzing character motivations, objectives, and goals.
c. Compare the physical, emotional, vocal, and social dimensions of a character.
d. Investigate the role and responsibility of the cast and crew.
e. Identify and model ensemble skills in the rehearsal process.
f. Utilize staging and blocking choices to enhance the performance.
g. Compare, contrast, and design elements of technical theatre.
h. Utilize theatre vocabulary throughout the rehearsal process.

Grade 7 - Performing

TA7.PR.2 - Execute artistic and technical elements of theatre.
a. Select a variety of technical elements that can be applied to a theatrical work.
b. Incorporate artistic and technical elements into a theatre performance.

Grade 8 - Creating

TA8.CR.1 - Organize, design, and refine theatrical work.
a. Differentiate the physical, emotional, vocal, and social dimensions of a variety of characters.
b. Compare the relationships and interactions between characters by analyzing character motivation (objectives, obstacles, strategy, action, stakes, outcome).
c. Incorporate dramatic elements through improvisation.
d. Connect theatre vocabulary to the application of theatre performance.
e. Identify and demonstrate both ensemble and leadership skills in the rehearsal process.
f. Evaluate the effectiveness of artistic and technical elements used in a theatre production.
g. Design and create scenery, props, costumes, lighting, and sound.
h. Assume different roles and responsibilities in the rehearsal process.

Grade 8 - Performing

TA8.PR.2 - Execute artistic and technical elements of theatre.
a. Incorporate artistic and technical elements into a theatre production.
b. Resolve conflicts in technical applications.

Grades 9-12 - FUNDAMENTALS OF THEATRE LEVELS I-IV - Performing

TAHSFT.PR.2 - Execute artistic and technical elements of theatre.
a. Identify and define the various collaborative roles and relationships of technical production personnel (e.g. sound, lighting, set, scenic, costume, dramaturge, makeup, marketing, business aspects) in relation to the directors and performers.
b. Identify and apply the various aspects of directing, staging, performance spaces, and rehearsal management.
c. Recognize and apply the basic elements and procedures involved in the construction of props, scenery, and platforms.
d. Formulate effective theatrical designs in order to support the text and directorial concept.

Grades 9-12 - TECHNICAL THEATRE LEVELS I-IV - Creating

TAHSTT.CR.1 - Create technical elements of theatre (e.g. sets, props, costumes, makeup, lighting, sound).
a. Explore and utilize the elements of design and principles of composition for a theatrical context.
b. Create basic to advanced technical elements by choosing appropriate materials, tools, and techniques.
c. Analyze and/or develop choices in technical elements (e.g. sets, lights, costumes, sound) of informal and formal productions and theatrical texts as a part of the design process, considering mood, tone, and symbolism.
d. Create industry standard paperwork (e.g. budgets, cut lists, materials, cue sheets, lighting and costume plots, schedules, calendars) as it relates to completing design renderings and/or models.
e. Conceptualize and/or generate design elements for a dramatic work (e.g. scene, one act, full-length, musical).

Grades 9-12 - TECHNICAL THEATRE LEVELS I-IV - Responding

TAHSTT.RE.1 - Respond to technical elements of theatre using appropriate supporting evidence.
a. Revise projects, plans, and/or procedures after peer criticism to improve development of technical elements.
b. Identify and analyze the characteristics of different types of performance spaces and how they can influence production decisions (e.g. proscenium stage, studio/black box, thrust stage, classroom, arena, found space).
c. Evaluate design choices of professional designers.
d. Evaluate design and technical elements in a post mortem following the completion of a theatre production.

Grades 9-12 - TECHNICAL THEATRE LEVELS I-IV - Connecting

TAHSTT.CN.1 - Connect technical elements of theatre.
a. Explore and understand the collaborations between designers and directors to develop design elements.
b. Investigate the history of theatre architecture, stage technology, and other technical elements.
c. Understand technical theatre career options and various industry unions (e.g. International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, Actor’s Equity, United Scenic Artists, Stage Directors and Choreographers Society, League of Resident Theatres).
d. Explore connections with other disciplines associated with technical theatre (e.g. scientific principles behind technical theatrical practices, physics of electricity and sound, basic structural engineering, load ratings, working load limits).
e. Connect design themes with historical and social relevance using dramaturgical research and an understanding of historical and cultural artistic movements (e.g. expressionism, realism, Kabuki, Sanskrit Drama).

North Carolina Essential Standards

Beginning High School Standards - Aesthetics

B.AE.1.1 - Understand the major technical elements, such as sound, lights, set, and costumes, and their interrelationships.

B.AE.1.2 - Explain how the major technical elements, such as sound, lights, set, and costumes, are used to enhance formal or informal productions.

Intermediate High School Standards - Communication

I.C.2.2 - Interpret scenes through formal and informal presentations.

Intermediate High School Standards - Aesthetics

I.AE.1.1 - Use technical knowledge and design skills to formulate designs.

I.AE.1.2 - Use the major technical elements, such as sound, lights, set, and costumes, for formal or informal audiences.

Proficient High School Standards - Aesthetics

P.AE.1.2 - Apply working knowledge to solve problems in the major technical elements, such as sound, lights, set, and costumes, for formal or informal audiences.

Advanced High School Standards - Communication

A.C.2.2 - Interpret scripts through formal and informal presentations.

Advanced High School Standards - Aesthetics

A.AE.1.1 - Use technical knowledge and design skills to formulate designs for a specific audience.

A.AE.1.2 - Use the knowledge and skills associated with technical roles, such as lighting operator, prop master, or stage manager, in an appropriate and effective manner.

Tennessee Theatre Curriculum Standards

Tennessee Theatre standards (2018) standards were built using the framework of the NCAS which is built on four key domains: Creating, Performing/Presenting/Producing, Connecting, and Responding. Within each of these domains are foundations and standards to support the development of curriculum, programs, and learning.
(source: Tennessee Department of Education, Tennessee Academic Standards for Fine Arts, Summer 2018)

Please refer to National Core Arts Standards to determine the standard that best suits your needs.