Stagecraft
The Theatre Lab School of the Dramatic Arts
Instructor Syllabus
Spring Semester 2014
Textbooks (Handouts will be provided):
 Backstage Handbook: An Illustrated Almanac of Technical Information. Carter, Paul, Third
Edition Broadway Press, Louisville, KY
 Theatrical Design and Production: An Introduction to Scene Design, Construction, Lighting,
Sound, Costume and Makeup. Gillette, Michael Sixth Edition McGraw Hill Higher
Education
Main Topics:
Safety
The Stage and its Terminology
Aspects of Stagecraft
Aspects of Design
Hand Tools / Power Tools / Hardware
Materials: Stick Lumber and Sheet Goods
Other Materials and Hardware
Basic Carpentry Techniques
The Cut List
Traditional Scenic Flat and Hardcover Construction
Rigging – Basic Hardware and Knots
Painting – Brush Techniques
Lighting – Electricity, Controllable Qualities of Light, Perception, Design, Instruments, Control
Sound – Properties of Sound, Reinforcement, Effects, Acoustics, Systems, Control
Props – Concepts, Construction
Special Effects
Production – Stage Management, Crew Positions and Responsibilities
Theatre Safety Guidelines:
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Your personal safety is the highest consideration in Stagecraft class. If misused, the tools we
operate in class can cause severe injury, even death. To provide the safest working
environment in the shop, the following rules will be strictly enforced:
Respect all tools and equipment. Never touch equipment without proper training.
Immediately report any injuries.
Wear clothing that you don’t mind being ruined.
Wear closed-toe, low-heel shoes. No open-toed shoes or shoes with high heels. Tennis shoes
are okay, boots are better.
Loose jewelry must be removed before operating any machinery.
Long hair must be tied up away from the face.
The use of earphones/ear buds is prohibited.
Medications: You must not use any tools if you are taking medicines that affect your ability
to operate the tools safely. (For example, many cold medications cause drowsiness.)
Help keep exits and access to exits unobstructed at all times.
Put away all materials, tools, set pieces, etc. when you are finished with them.
Stagecraft
The Theatre Lab School of the Dramatic Arts
Instructor Syllabus
Spring Semester 2014
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Clean up after yourself.
Thoroughly clean paint brushes and paint trays.
No running on stage or anywhere in the auditorium.
Do not pull on the curtains or throw tools, scenery, or other items.
When lifting heavy objects, always bend the knees, keep the body up straight, and push
upward with legs.
Always ask for assistance when moving set pieces or scenery to avoid strain or injury.
Wear proper clothing and shoes when working backstage or in the scene shop.
Be aware of any sensitivity you may have to potentially toxic materials such as paint, glue and
aerosol sprays.
Always have proper ventilation when working with potentially toxic materials.
Ask Questions.
Have fun!