Unit
in Technical Theatre Mini Units Curriculum
Staging
Created by Josh Hatt
This is a mini-unit on staging. Along with the driving question for the unit, students will explore about how staging affects the performance. Students will draw a plot design (ground plan) to emphasize the need to plan where scenic elements will be placed. They will also practice taking cues from the script, in order to create staging.
Start here
The overview lays out the objectives for the unit and reviews the content in each lesson.
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1Lesson 1Introduction to StagingStudents are introduced to staging through video demonstration and discuss the role of staging in a performance. How does staging help to visualize a location? The lesson concludes with a Greek Myth Staging Activity.
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2Lesson 2Staging EffectivenessStudents complete a Staging Vocabulary Activity. They are then given a setting description and have to draw a set based on the description. The point of the activity is not to excel in drawing but learning how to plan and translate a description into a physical setting.
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3Lesson 3Changes and TransitionsStudents discuss scene changes and transitions. How can a poorly rehearsed transition hinder a technically effective performance? They then apply this discussion to a Scene Assignment. Groups create a scene and must demonstrate a scene change within the scene.
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4Lesson 4Scene Assignment: PresentationStudents review what makes a scene technically effective. They are given time to rehearse and then present their scenes. The emphasis is on the groups demonstrating a knowledge of staging effectiveness.
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5Lesson 5ReflectionStudents discuss the scenes from the previous class and reflect as a group on the process. They then address how lighting, sound, costume and staging interact together to create a technically effective scene.
Standards Addressed
Technical Theatre/Design 10-20-30 - Costume
Technical Theatre/Design 10-20-30 - Management - Properties
Technical Theatre/Design 10-20-30 - Management - Set
- 1 demonstrate understanding of the purpose of stage scenery
- 10 demonstrate understanding of and use ground plans
- 11 demonstrate understanding of proper placement of stage scenery: balancing, angling, masking, sight lines, backdrops, scrims
- 2 recognize the importance of illusion in set design
- 4 recognize and use theatre terminology related to the proscenium
- 6 recognize different types of stages: proscenium, thrust, arena, flexible
- 7 demonstrate understanding of symbolism and psychological implications of colour, texture, line, mass and form
- 8 recognize different types of scenery: bare stage, curtain set, drop and wing set, box set, unit set, suggestive or selective set, flats, projections, scrims, cyclorama
- 9 demonstrate understanding of and use scale
Junior Orientation
- demonstrate a willingness to take calculated and reasonable risks
- focus concentration on one task at a time
- generate imaginative and creative solutions to problems
- listen effectively
- meet deadlines and follow through on individual and group commitments
- offer and accept constructive criticism, given specific guidelines, with a desire to improve
- share ideas confidently with others
- support positively the work of others
- work cooperatively and productively with all members of the class in pairs, small groups and large groups
Junior Goal I Objectives
- develop a sense of responsibility and commitment
- develop self-discipline
- develop the ability to initiate, organize and present a project within a given set of guidelines
- develop the ability to interact effectively and constructively in a group process
- develop the willingness to make a decision, act upon it and accept the results
- extend the ability to explore meaning through abstract concepts
- extend the ability to think imaginatively and creatively
Technical Theatre - Levels I, II, III - Awareness
- 1 recognize the basic terminology associated with the component being studied
- 2 demonstrate understanding of the basic functions of the component being studied.
- 3 show awareness of the importance of research
- 4 show awareness of available resources pertaining to the component being studied; e.g., supplies, libraries and theatre companies
- 5 demonstrate understanding of the various conventions of the components being studied
Technical Theatre - Levels I, II, III - Readiness
- 10 demonstrate understanding of and use appropriate methods and tools for designing the project; e.g., makeup charts, cue sheets, working drawing
- 11 arrange and sequence time, ideas, information, materials and/or personnel for achievement of the project
- 6 demonstrate understanding of the importance of planning and organization
- 7 select a project appropriate to the component being studied
- 8 demonstrate understanding of the use of colour, shape and texture to achieve a desired effect
- 9 use sketching to explore ideas for the project
Technical Theatre - Application
- 12 demonstrate understanding of and apply appropriate regulations, procedures and precautions to ensure safe working conditions
- 13 determine and acquire necessary supplies or substitutes to construct the planned project
- 16 demonstrate the integration of technical theatre with other disciplines in order to enhance dramatic communication
Senior Goal I Objectives
Senior Goal III Objectives
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