Build the world of the play—one cue, costume, and contour at a time.
The Design/Technology concentration prepares theatre artists for creative and technical roles in live performance, such as themed entertainment (like amusement parks, haunted houses, etc.), as well as in film and television. Students gain hands‑on experience in scenery, lighting, sound, costumes, and stagecraft while collaborating closely with directors and performers to bring productions to life.
Immersion from Day One
Early and frequent production assignments, labs, and shop work develop craft and confidence. You will participate in build calls, fittings, hang and focus, and technical rehearsals that mirror professional practice.
What You’ll Learn
As a Design/Technology student, you will acquire creative design processes and practical technical skills across key areas of theatre production.
- Create and communicate design concepts using research, renderings, and drafting.
- Apply stagecraft fundamentals in scenery construction, rigging awareness, and safe tool use.
- Master lighting and sound systems: plots, paperwork, patching, programming, and cueing.
- Design and build costume elements; support fittings, alterations, and wardrobe maintenance.
- Generate production paperwork and collaborate through tech and dress rehearsals.
- Document work for portfolios and design reels suitable for internships and early‑career roles.
Production & Professional Experience
Practical learning is embedded in the production calendar and shop environments.
- Department productions with rotating assignments (e.g., assistant designer, board operator, crew head).
- Shop hours in scene and costume areas under faculty/staff supervision.
- Opportunities to present realized work in public performances and showcases.
Admissions & Production Requirements
Admission to the Design/Technology concentration follows initial enrollment in the B.F.A. in Performing Arts and a formal evaluation process. Ongoing production assignments are required each semester.
- Admission to ÐÇ¿ÕÎÞÏÞ´«Ã½ Lafayette is a first step.
- Formal review (e.g., portfolio and/or interview) for entry into the Design/Technology track.
- Semesterly production participation in design or technical roles, as assigned.
Why Choose the Design/Technology Concentration?
- Hands‑on production work in fully realized performances.
- Mentored skill development across multiple design and technical areas.
- Portfolio‑driven outcomes that support internships, entry‑level positions, and graduate study.
Program Components (Summary)
| Area | Examples |
|---|---|
| Design | Scenic research/renderings, lighting plots, sound concepts, costume boards |
| Technology | Stagecraft, construction, hang/focus, programming, wardrobe, run crews |
| Documentation | Drafting, paperwork, cue sheets, production books, portfolios |
| Collaboration | Design meetings, tech/dress rehearsals, production notes |