Stage Management & Technical Theatre Diploma

Available at ALRA North and South

A full-time, two year course to equip students with the necessary skills to gain employment in the theatre industry.

The course offers a thorough vocational training for those who wish to work in theatre stage management and technical theatre production with extra opportunities to work in recorded media.

Studying at ALRA on the Stage Management & Technical Theatre course equips you with the necessary skills, experience, vision and determination to gain employment within the theatre industry. The course is deliberately challenging and endeavours to emulate the procedures of the industry.

Production work takes place in ALRA’s flexible theatre space.

If you are interested in applying to ALRA we suggest you to attend one of our Open Days. Information can be found on this page or contact us with any questions here.

A full-time, two year course to equip students with the necessary skills to gain employment in the theatre industry. The course is structured over two years and includes units in:

Year 1

Each year ALRA SMTT students produce six productions, 3 in ALRA's theatre, two touring and one in another London venue. In the first year they develop core skills in stage management, lighting, sound, stage craft, costume maintenance, design process, AV and health and safety.They participate in small group practical classes designed to take them through a variety of occupational scenarios, from propping and prompting to mark-ups and rigging.

As well as class work students take on roles in each department throughout the first year on the production. Health and Safety is an essential part of the first year of study, this covers working with access equipment, first aid training and risk assessment training.

Year 2

Students are guided by a series of individual tutorials towards choosing two specialist pathways from a choice of seven, ranging from stage management to lighting design. Each pathway involves at least one allocated work placement with a professional theatre, production company or technical services company.

Students take on various ‘Head of Department’ roles for the public productions and have the opportunity to gain practical experience in a variety of production roles ranging from APM, DSM or technician to costume designer and sound designer. Students can expect to work on the full range of college productions, including two tours and two productions in repertoire.

In the final term there is the opportunity to work on an ALRA Film with the Acting students working on technical roles such as assistant production manager, camera operator and grip. A main part of the final year is, either as a group or individual, to produce a stage management and technical theatre showcase. This showcase is designed to show off the skills learnt to an audience of invited industry professionals and is followed by an industry networking reception.

Teaching

You are taught mainly by practical methods, such as technique classes, workshops, exercises, rehearsal and informal presentations. You participate in group discussions and seminars as well as tutor feedback and review and regular tutorials. All tutors and directors involved in the delivery of the course are practising professionals.

SMTT students work on every public production ALRA produces. As well as visiting professionals, you will work closely with the Acting students, learning how to work with and effectively manage a company of actors.

ALRA requires constant attendance at all timetabled classes, seminars and other events. Days are long and commitment has to be full-time. Calls often extend late into the evening for shows and get outs. This reflects scheduling in your future career and is a valuable part of your training.

Guest Workshops

Work Placements

Over the last 5 years students have undertaken work placements at the following institutes: