<p>This isn't that much related to college but I usually do tech for the school play and I want to familiarize with as many fields of tech as I can. So far I did make up and hair for the play last year and I did spotlight for a benefit show. I have 2 plays left, so I was wondering what tech areas should I do for the next two years. What did you all do in high school or your sons and daughters?</p>
<p>Lights/sound (from board, not follow spot) and or ASM are great skills to have</p>
<p>Our performing arts high school had a very strong tech dept. The kids did everything: designed and build the sets, designed lighting/sound and work the boards, designed and applied makeup, designed and made all the props, etc. They acted as Asst. Director, Stage Manager & Ast. Stage Manager. </p>
<p>With only two more plays, that is such a short time to explore all the areas you could focus on in college, so I would say focus on the areas that sing to you the most. Look at schools with strong tech programs (UNSCA, Ohio, Purchase) and talk to some of the students to see what they did in high school. We have alums who have gone on to study everything from Stage Management to Props Master. You focus is to build a portfolio of your work and future vision for your interviews. Very exciting! </p>
<p>As a high school stage manager who has stage managed a professional production as well, I would highly suggest ASMing or SMing a show. I found that I got exposed to not only sound and lights, but also props and set design. Stage managing was seriously the best choice of my high school career.</p>
<p>If it matters, I am going into college as an English-theatre double major or English major and theatre minor, I won the drama award for my school, and currently have a full-time job as a properties master at a summer stock theatre.</p>
<p>That being said, do what you think you’ll enjoy most. I LOVED stage managing, but it is extremely demanding - I didn’t really sleep during tech week - ever - and you always have to be the most organised person in the room, no matter where you are, haha. If you’re up for the challenge, though, it’s extremely rewarding. Have fun!</p>