What to look for in Higher Education programs:
-Does the Program have a Grad and Under Grad Program?
-Does the University have a Professional Theatre linked to it?
For example: UCSD- had LaJolla Playhouse and Syracuse University has Syracuse Stage.
-What credits does the facility have, are they still working in the industry?
-What variety of disciplines will you be exposed to and able to design in?
For example: Drama, Musicals, Dance, Opera or Film
-What types of theaters does the program have?
For example: Proscenium, Thrust or Blackbox
-Are there guest artist that come and teach or design for the Program?
Who are some of the recent guest?
-What roles will you fill through your stay at the University.
For example: Electrician, Follow spot operator, master electrician, board op, assistant
How is staffing for the shows done, Faculity appointed to sign up.
-After Graduation where do most of the Alumni end up working
-How much debt will you be in after graduation?
-Are you able to design outside of the program you are in?
For example: Are you able to design for a local theatre not linked to the program you are in?
Are you able to create a dance show or other show with students on campus?
-If you find while you are going through the program that you want to switch majors are there any issues with that?
-What classes will you take in your program?
After Graduating from your program here is a list if topics that should have been covered:
-Read a ground plan and section
-Figure out real estate
-Section lighting, 3D and 2D
-Figure out lumens and size of beams
-Proficient in Vectorworks or Autocadd
-Proficient in lightwright
-Proficient in excel and file maker
-Know how to create a shop order, magic sheet, LQ description sheet
-Efficient ways for work notes
-Previz- how to set up a file and work around it
-Basic knowledge of how a console works
-How to label, create magic sheets, how to write cues, patch ect.
-Proficient in focusing convention lights.
-How to document a show
-How to create a contract-
-What are items needed in a contract
-What Unions are out there and how do they work?
After Graduating from your program here is a list possible jobs to think about:
(Summer jobs are very important for you to gain experience and build your network, see jobs for more info)
-Work as a stage hand to make money, gain experience and make connections
-Work as a Programmer
-Work in a Design Studio as a draftsman
-Work in a Lighting or Scenic Shop
-Go on Tour there are Union and non- Union tours
-Work on a Cruise Ship as a tech or more advanced
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