<p>So I'm interested in theatre design and all the BFA programs require a portfolio of "some of your works". The problem here is I haven't done anything that big. I've operated light board and spotlight a couple of times, I've been on backstage crew a ton of times, and I've help with builds and painting a couple times as well, but I haven't really done anything that big. Is that the kind of stuff they're looking for or do I have to design stuff? There's an internship coming up at my theatre this summer and I'm going to try and get that, but if I don't, will this kind of stuff be enough?</p>
<p>Have you taken art classes? Do you have artwork, sculpture, photography, graphic design, photoshop work, posters for school productions, costumes/fashion design, make up design photos or arch sketches/renderings? These and many more non-theatre art pieces can show your study of and talent in design concepts and your artistic voice. Not many HS students have access to designing sets, but if you’ve created props, designed programs or in other ways used your eye and design sense to work on ECs, these could go into your portfolio as well. Tech theatre like stage management, operating lights and sound boards, etc, are great to show involvement backstage, but will not go towards the portfolio requirement which is meant to show practice of art. Studio art pieces will work, so if you can take studio art in HS that could help a lot. </p>
<p>You can design a show even if you’ll never execute your designs. Sketches and plans, clippings of sources that show your inspiration, and even fabric or other samples of materials, and a sound design on your phone will all communicate an artistic vision. It does not have to be a finished presentation. Auditors are looking for students with potential, and some prefer those who have not yet learned bad habits. A portfolio should demonstrate why you want to design for the theater. </p>