Technical Theatre (Certificate)
Program Advisor: Amy Echeverria
413-236-4726 • aecheverria@berkshirecc.edu
The Technical Theatre Certificate is designed to prepare students for a wide range of careers in educational, community, and resident theatre venues, as well as the film industry. The program introduces students to the fundamentals of technical theatre and immerses them in applied hands-on learning.
Through the foundation courses, students build an understanding of theatre history, design, technical theatre, and practical uses of current industry standards. The certificate provides students with an overview in the technical theatre field so that they may enter the work force in the areas of stage management, audio, costuming, hair and makeup, lighting, properties, set construction, and scenic artistry. This certificate can also serve as the first step towards an Associates and Baccalaureate degrees.
Admissions Requirements
Admission to the Technical Theatre Certificate will be based on an open enrollment basis. Students who enroll in the certificate must fill out a college application and have high school transcripts or equivalent.
Expected Outcomes
Graduates of this program should be able to:
- Demonstrate knowledge and use of technical theatre terminology.
- Recognize theatre roles and responsibilities in the community.
- Apply the use of safety procedures for the shop, rigging, and handling of scenic and lighting elements and equipment.
- Show or practice- foundational skills required in technical theatre specializations such as audio and sound, costuming, hair and makeup, lighting, properties, set construction, and/or painting.
- Accurately interpret stage directions, ground plans, renderings, and paperwork to execute projects to specifications.
- Utilize shop tools for the production, maintenance, and alteration of various technical theatre components to industry standards.
Graduation Requirements
To earn a certificate in the program, a student must complete all 26 program credits plus additional graduation requirements for Berkshire Community College.
Program Courses
Technical Theatre Certificate 26 credits
Suggested Pathway to Graduation
The following is a suggestion for completing the certificate in one year. The actual time needed to complete will vary according to each student’s needs.
First Semester
ENG -
| English Composition | 3 |
| THR-101 | Introduction to the Theatre | 3 |
| THR-102 | Stagecraft I | 3 |
| THR-106 | Fundamentals of Theatre Design | 3 |
| THR-198 | Theatre Practicum | 1 |
Second Semester