Technical Theatre

 

CoSA’s Technical Theatre students are some of the busiest high school students in Southern California! The Coronado Performing Arts Center at CHS, which opened in 2007 and received a $2 million upgrade in 2010, includes a 570-seat theatre complete with an orchestra pit and fly space, Vortek computerized lift system and computerized sound and lighting system, and a more intimate 80-seat Black Box theatre.

Technical Theatre students, or “techies” as they’re called, study set design and build sets for CoSA productions in the fully-equipped scene shop. They learn elements of lighting design, as well as how to operate a complex computerized lighting system. They study costuming, make-up, sound design, and stage, box office, and house management. With over 70 theatre events annually, both for the school and for groups who rent the theatre facilities, the students have ample opportunity for on-the-job work experience.  Graduates of the Technical Theatre program are have been trained to problem solve, think on their feet and react appropriately to changing scenarios, and manage crews safely in fast-paced environments.

A key component of the conservatory experience is semester jury assessment by faculty and professionals. When possible, techies are taken on field trips to other stages and performance venues in southern California to broaden the depth of knowledge about their craft.