Technical and Production Management students will learn all aspects of managing the infrastructure for performance, from the hands-on skills and techniques of theatre technical work to the management of people and departments in negotiation with the creative team. Successful completion of the course prepares you for a career in technical management, production management, or associated fields within the entertainment industry. You will be encouraged to identify areas of related practice that you are interested in and you will have an opportunity to explore associated fields of interest.
In Year One you will complete a number of set units which take you through the basic skills necessary for backstage work, as well as giving you an understanding of relevant legislation and safe working practices, while building your understanding of managing group processes and the production process as a whole. Year One culminates in assisting with the Technical Management of a realised production. You will work closely with all departments involved in the creative process, and learn to understand the fundamental principles involved in developing a performance.
In Year Two you will hone your organisational and management skills on a number of realised productions working closely alongside fellow students on other Theatre Practice strands and visiting professionals. Projects could range from main-house, proscenium theatre shows to site-specific, fringe work or projects outside Central including outdoor events and circus. You will also have opportunities to take part in a number of training sessions over the year such as AutoCAD, pyrotechnic training, and working at height.
In Year Three you will take on greater responsibility – for example, production managing all departments on a show or even a season of Webber Douglas Studio shows. You will also be expected to create links with professionals within your chosen area of the industry and to spend some time working with them to make the journey from the academic world to the professional as seamless as possible.
Placements
Throughout the three years you will have contact with professionals and be able to use the course’s links with both traditional and leading-edge industry practice. Central has recently collaborated with professional organisations on large-scale outdoor theatre and street art events with student production teams.
