Careers in the technical theatre cluster focuses on designing, producing, exhibiting, performing, writing, and publishing multimedia content including visual and performing arts and design, journalism, and entertainment services. Radio and television broadcasts, Hollywood movies, and major concert tours are some of the glamorous settings of the Arts, A/V Technology, and Communications career cluster. But this sector also includes community theaters, print shops, art galleries, local music venues, film festivals, art fairs, and more.
set and exhibit designers stock photo

Set and Exhibit Designers

Average Salary: $58,180

Design special exhibits and sets for film, video, television, and theater productions. May study scripts, confer with directors, and conduct research to determine appropriate architectural styles.

producers and directors stock photo

Producers and Directors

Average Salary: $76,400

Produce or direct stage, television, radio, video, or film productions for entertainment, information, or instruction. Responsible for creative decisions, such as interpretation of script, choice of actors or guests, set design, sound, special effects, and choreography.

makeup artists for theater and performance stock photo

Makeup Artists, Theatrical and Performance

Average Salary: $106,920

Apply makeup to performers to reflect period, setting, and situation of their role. Select desired makeup shades from stock, or mix oil, grease, and coloring to achieve specific color effects. Duplicate work precisely to replicate characters' appearances on a daily basis.

Industry Recognized Certificates/Credentials, Employability Skills, and Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO) Applications

Industry Recognized Certificates/Credentials

Students have the potential to earn an industry recognized certificates and credentials through their experiences in our CTE programs. The following certificates and credentials could include the following:

  • Coming soon!

Employability Skills

While enrolled in the Technical Theatre program, students will be expected to work on various employability skills that could be related to the industry recognized certificate/credentials listed above. See some examples of how students will work on these skills below:

  • Technical Proficiency
    Technical proficiency is a fundamental skill in theater technical production. Lighting technicians, for instance, need to be skilled in setting up and operating complex lighting systems to create the desired ambiance and effects during a performance. They must understand the principles of lighting design and be proficient with lighting consoles and equipment to ensure that the lighting cues are executed accurately.
  • Problem-Solving and Adaptability
    In live theater, unexpected issues often arise, such as equipment malfunctions, set changes, or last-minute alterations to a production. Theater technicians must be adept at problem-solving and adaptability to address these challenges on the spot. For instance, if a set piece breaks during a performance, a stagehand needs to quickly devise a solution to repair or replace it without disrupting the show.
  • Teamwork and Communication
    Theater productions involve numerous technical and artistic teams, including lighting, sound, set design, and performers. Effective teamwork and communication are critical for coordinating these various elements to create a cohesive performance. For example, a stage manager plays a central role in coordinating the efforts of all technical teams and ensuring that cues are executed at the right times during a live performance.

CTSO Applications

Students who enroll in a course within the Technical Theatre program have the opportunity to engage in in a CTSO. Below are some potential applications to a CTSO that student could be involved when participating in this CTE program:

  • SkillsUSA: Entrepreneurship
    This contest utilizes both written and practical exercises to evaluate the contestants’ abilities and knowledge of the field. Students create their own businesses by developing business plans that identify needed products or services in a local market.
  • SkillsUSA: Job Interview
    This contest utilizes both written and practical exercises to evaluate the contestants’ abilities and knowledge of the field. Contestants demonstrate their understanding of employment procedures  for positions in the occupational areas for which they are training.
  • SkillsUSA: Prepared Speech
    This contest utilizes both written and practical exercises to evaluate the contestants’ abilities and knowledge of the field. Contestants deliver a speech on the annual theme. They are evaluated on their ability to present thoughts relating to a central theme, and on voice, mechanics, and platform deportment.

Which High Schools Offer this Program?

CTE Advisory Board

Amy Leigh
Coach
Theatre Actor/Director

Jarred Frank
Programs and Partnerships Specialist
Aurora Public Schools

Tony Huerta
Sound Engineer
Sonic Audio

Davey Van Beveren
Director
Colorado Symphony

Sarah Van Beckum
Local Artist
Visual and Design Arts

Shelby Jarosz
Staff
Cleo Parker Robinson

Robert B. Epstein
Artist/President
Highstone Studio