At most schools, teachers and adults are "in charge" of the various technical aspects of performing arts programs. They hang the lights and build the scenery, perhaps explaining to the students what they're doing.  But the students are left watching.

Not so at The Governor's Academy.  We offer the unique opportunity for students to be completely in charge behind the scenes at plays, musicals, performances, and special events throughout the year.  We show students how to build a staircase, and then they go and build it.  We teach students how to run the light board, and then they go and run it.  When students have questions, we may not give the answer right away. Instead, we will guide students in their thinking so that they are able to figure it out on their own.

Recognized with an excellence award from the North Shore Music Theatre, our Technical Theater program meets during each of the three seasons as part of our Afternoon Program.  Students may also take Technical Theater courses for credit during the academic day. 

Technical Theatre: Afternoon Program

The "Tech" program works closely with the Drama program in the production of plays and musicals during the year. Students learn the essential skills of the behind-the-scenes operation of a theater, including woodworking, electrical, and construction skills, and both sound and lighting design. This program is offered during the fall, winter, and spring seasons.

Technical Theatre Courses

All students have the opportunity to learn more advanced skills of both audio components and lighting systems in our Sound and Lighting course.  Those who enjoy using power tools always enjoy our Carpentry for Theatre course, which covers basic woodworking techniques and skills unique to building scenery for the theater.