Stage Design Program

Stage Design Studio offers high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors an opportunity to explore the elements of theater design. During the program, Stage Design Studio students concentrate on scenic design and drafting, lighting design, costume design and rendering, stage makeup, mask design and construction, and portfolio preparation. Students attend dynamic weekday classes to learn more about the tools of stage design and work on projects, and will refine their projects during Saturday studio hours.

Program Features

Stage Design Studio focuses on developing design skills in individuals who are interested in stage design. Through the program, Stage Design Studio students will:

• Improve knowledge of the principles, functions, and elements of scenic, light, costume, and makeup design
• Practice graphic techniques, symbolization, and terminology used in theater design
• Analyze a script as it relates to the designer’s point of view
• Expand the range of creative design with the focus on design research and conceptualization
• Develop skills in the artistic presentation of design concepts in the areas of scenic, costume, lighting, and makeup
• Construct a final portfolio of their design/tech projects suitable for a college admission process

Program Dates and Costs

Program Dates (including required orientation): July 8–August 10, 2012

Stage Design Program per student: $2,595
On-Campus Housing per student: $2,995

Who May Apply

High school students entering grades 10, 11, and 12 during the 2012–2013 academic year are welcome to apply to Stage Design Studio. Stage Design Studio is perfect for students who have a strong interest in the design aspects of the performing arts. The program is developed for students who want intensive training in all aspects of stage design, have respect for the design process, and understand how to manage their time and complete assignments both in and out of the classroom. Students who have the desire and maturity to receive constructive criticism about their work and give helpful feedback to others during the program are encouraged to apply.

Each candidate for the Stage Design Studio Program must submit the required application form, completed and signed, along with the following documents.

• Student Statement of Purpose: In one page, please describe what you hope to achieve during the studio program.
• Essay: In one page, discuss a theater production, film, or visual artwork that you believe has influenced or inspired your design work.
• Teacher Recommendation: Please submit one recommendation, completed by a teacher who knows your work, in a sealed envelope with the teacher’s signature across the back seal.
• Résumé of your theatrical, visual art, or design experience. Photos of your work are encouraged but not required.

Download the Pre-College Studio Application Form (PDF)

Download the Pre-College Studio Teacher Recommendation Form (PDF)

Required Materials

Participants are expected to provide their own art supplies. A list of items will be provided.

Sample Schedule

Schedule is subject to change.
Monday–Friday,
9:00 am–5:00 pm
Saturday, 9:00 am–12:00 pm

Week One
Technical drawing: perspective and drafting techniques
Color and light: painting techniques for paint elevations and costume renderings
Lighting design: concepts, instruments, and techniques

Week Two
Three-dimensional design: scale model construction techniques
Stagecraft: casting and molding techniques for masks and props
Stage makeup

Weeks Three and Four
Collaborative design: production design (sets, costumes, and lighting) in teams

Week Five
Presentation prep: Finalizing and organizing your work into portfolios and presentation format. Learn how to talk about your work.