Undergraduate Programs
Production Technology
The School of Drama Production Technology program allows students to explore the technology behind live performance and engage in the design and engineering of the systems and networks utilized in production.
Through the program, students become uniquely positioned to enter the professional world with skills and experience in areas of emerging need as technologies are increasingly important in live production.
The flexible nature of the program allows for concentrations in several different areas, as well as providing a platform for the integration of technologies used by various traditionally separate production areas. Students are part of the creative process both in class and as part of a team assigned to realized productions within the school. All School of Drama shows are designed and technically supported by the students.
Curriculum
Coursework in the Production Technology program includes content in the areas of Audio, Lighting, Scenic Automation and the intersections between these disciplines. Both theory and practice are covered, allowing students to develop skills and experience with current technology and preparing them to develop and utilize future technologies.
Realized production work within the School of Drama solidifies and expands on concepts studied in classes. Most School of Drama production teams are composed exclusively of students. Larger productions utilize outside professional and faculty directors as well selected professional staff members who support student designers. Production Technology students perform several different roles over the course of their studies and may choose to focus in one or more areas of production work. Students in all areas function as full members of the production’s creative team.
Opportunities
Students in the School of Drama’s Production Technology Program have many opportunities to experience professional situations through internships with local theaters and production companies. Local partners include Pittsburgh Opera, Pittsburgh Ballet, Pittsburgh Public Theatre, Quantum Theatre, Pittsburgh Irish and Classical Theatre and City Theatre Company. In addition, students may gain experience in the wider field through directed internships with professional firms. Summer opportunities supplement and complement opportunities throughout the year and create long-lasting professional contacts.
School of Drama alumni and visiting artists share their expertise with students through project work, visiting lectures, workshops and professional development seminars. As students ready themselves for graduation, alumni introduce them to the profession during Showcases in New York City and Los Angeles.
Unique Platforms
All School of Drama students have to opportunities to participate in the following:
DANCE/LIGHT
Dance/Light is a performance opportunity for students across all disciplines to collaborate in the creation of original dance and movement pieces.
PLAYGROUND
A Festival of Independent Student Work: Playground is the annual School of Drama, three-day performance festival showcasing independent, student-produced work across multiple disciplines.
VISITING ARTISTS PROGRAM
The Visiting Artists Program brings distinguished national and international guests to campus to work with students across all disciplines.
SHOWCASE
The School of Drama Showcase presentations in New York and Los Angeles are designed to give all graduating students from all disciplines the opportunity to meet with and present work to leading arts and entertainment professionals. When conditions warrant, this Showcase may be augmented by virtual online networking events.
Faculty
News & Alumni
Your Future
Graduates of the Production Technology and Management Option (PTM) are sought after as leaders in their disciplines across all areas of the performing arts.
In-depth study and practice of industry standards and union guidelines enable graduates to transition seamlessly into the professional world. The School of Drama’s Visiting Artist Program provides students with an in-depth understanding of professional practice through classes, workshops and productions with leading industry professionals.
Recent graduates have found employment with Tait Towers and Chicago Scenic Studios, On- and Off-Broadway, with Cirque Du Soleil, with regional theaters and opera companies across the country, and in many facets of the television and film industry.
