BFA Technical Theatre Stage Management

Without You the Show Can’t Go On

The BFA (Bachelor of Fine Arts) Technical Theatre Stage Management program is a four-year degree revolving around core stage management classes, practical projects and coursework, all of which solidify your background in theatre history, theatre practices, theatre design, genres and theories.

Run the show with a high level of professionalism. From assisting the director in the rehearsal process, to calling scene changes and lighting cues during a performance, the stage manager is the essential team leader of any production. Develop excellent communication and organizational skills through participation in class work and department productions.

Responsibilities of the Stage Manager

• Efficient and safe operation of the rehearsal room and the backstage and onstage of the theatre--before, during and after rehearsals and performances
• Rehearsal documentation: blocking notation; scene changes of stage scenery, costume and wig changes, furniture and props; maintenance of daily rehearsal schedules and costume fittings
• Effective communication and collaboration with directors, designers, actors, production staff and administration
• Calling the performance: coordinating acting and technical cues--entrances, exits and scene shifts--to the artistic wishes of the director
• Integrating all technical elements--lighting and sound cues, flown and mechanized scenery, and special effects

Faculty member John Raymond has worked numerous times as Stage Manager on Catalyst Theatre's creative team.  Click to read Catalyst Theatre's Q & A with John!

Artistic Requirements – Interview

• Entrance to this program is competitive, with a maximum of 8 spots in each incoming class
• Additional materials are reviewed and interviews are held March-April to start the program in September
• Artistic assessments are based on a review of your additional supporting materials as well as an interview
• You must have a successful interview AND meet the academic requirements to be offered a spot in the program

Academic Requirements

Download the BFA Technical Theatre Info Sheet for full admission requirements.

High School Students (Canadian)
Applicants must present a minimum average of 70%* on five appropriate Grade 12 high school subjects at the 30-level (or equivalent), with no individual mark below 50%. English Language Arts 30-1 is required. The other four subjects can be chosen from the humanities/social sciences, fine arts, and math/sciences.

Transfer Students (Canadian)
If you have studied at a recognized university or college you must present a minimum AGPA of 2.0.

If you do not present either the high school requirements or the required matriculation average, you may be considered for admission if you have successfully completed 24 credits of coursework transferable to the Faculty of Arts.

International Students
Information for international students is available through the UofA's International Site: www.studyincanada.ualberta.ca

BFA Technical Theatre Stage Management at the U of A – the ultimate in hands-on education

The University of Alberta is one of only three universities in Canada to offer a specialization in Stage Management. This rare degree's advanced and intensive training is recognized by industry professionals, including the Canadian Actors' Equity Association. Upon graduation, you will be awarded a credit towards the apprenticeship credits required to become a full Equity member.

Courses and Planning Your Schedule

Download the BFA Stage Management Course List to see degree requirements, course descriptions and standard schedules.

Contacts:
Joanna Manchur
Fine Arts Recruitment Coordinator
Email: joanna.manchur@ualberta.ca
Phone: 780.248.5497

John Raymond
BFA Technical Theatre Program Coordinator
Email: john.raymond@ualberta.ca
Phone: 780.492.8719

How To Apply

Application to the BFA Technical Theatre Stage Management program is a 2-step process: Apply to Drama to schedule an interview by April 1 (early applications encouraged) and apply to the U of A by May 1. 

Download the BFA Technical Theatre Info Sheet for more details and FAQs.

Other Important Dates and Information

Attend the U of A Open House – Saturday, October 20, 2012. Learn about the Drama department and all our programs through demos and Q&A sessions.

Once you apply, you’ll get a U of A student ID number, a U of A email address, and you’ll be able to access Bear Tracks. Start using these immediately – they are the official channels of communication between the U of A and you, and important information will be sent to you this way.

The earlier you apply to the U of A the earlier you can apply for Housing, as well as Scholarships and Financial Assistance.

After a successful interview, and meeting the academic requirements, you will: 

Register for Courses – after receiving your welcome letter with course information from the Technical Theatre Coordinator in the summer.

Pay your Confirmation Deposit in August.

In September, attend U of A Orientation and get ready for the first day of classes.

On the first Friday of the school year, attend Drama Orientation and the annual Loading Dock Party!

Links

Why Choose Drama at the U of A? 

Drama Alumni 

Office of the Registrar and Student Awards – visit their homepage, a good resource for all prospective students!