What is Technical Theatre?
Technical theatre refers to all the behind-the-scenes elements that bring a production to life, from set design and lighting to costumes and props. It involves creative problem-solving, collaboration, and hands-on craftsmanship to ensure that every aspect of a performance supports the story being told on stage. At Knoxville Children’s Theatre, we believe that technical theatre is just as vital as performance, offering students a chance to explore the creative and technical skills necessary to make a production truly shine.
Technical Theatre at KCT
What sets Knoxville Children’s Theatre apart is our commitment to empowering students in every aspect of production. Our technical theatre program is unique in that all of our lead designers and design assistants are students. From concept to execution, students take charge of the creative process, supported by seasoned professionals who act as mentors. These experts guide our young designers through the process, but the bulk of the artistic responsibility is placed squarely on their shoulders. This hands-on, immersive approach allows students to gain invaluable real-world experience in a professional setting, embodying our philosophy of “theatre by children, for children.”
Design Specialties
Our technical theatre program offers students opportunities to explore a range of design specialties:
Scenic Design
Scenic designers are responsible for creating the physical environment of the play. They design the set pieces and backdrops that establish the world of the production, considering elements like scale, mood, and how the set interacts with actors.
Propsmaster
A propsmaster sources, creates, or maintains the various objects used by actors on stage. From swords to books, propsmasters ensure these items fit the period, style, and needs of the performance while contributing to the visual storytelling.
Costume Design
Costume designers craft the wardrobe of the characters, using fabrics, textures, and colors to help tell each character’s story. They collaborate with directors and design teams to ensure that the costumes support the narrative and are functional for the performers.
Lighting Design
Lighting designers use light to create mood, focus attention, and enhance the atmosphere of the production. By adjusting intensity, color, and angles, they bring dynamic visual elements to the stage, guiding the audience’s eye and enhancing the emotional impact of each scene.
Stage Management
Stage managers are the organizational backbone of a production. During rehearsals, they are the director’s right hand, recording blocking, maintaining the production schedule, and communicating with the cast and crew. During performances, they take the reins and lead the cast and crew through every show from check-in to lights out, including the essential work in the “booth” managing the flow of the show, calling cues, and making sure all technical elements happen seamlessly.
Sounds like Fun! Ready To Join?
Students must be at least eight years of age or older to be assigned to a design team. If you are interested in joining the program, please submit an interest form here.
