General Information
The Stage Technology Program at West Valley College offers students a diverse curriculum and outstanding opportunities to contribute to theatrical productions. You'll perform a variety of technical roles in theater performances to explore possible career opportunities. We offer a comprehensive program with classes in all areas of Theatrical Design and Technical Production. We employ an integrated approach to our training which focuses on learning, research, practice, and application through the study of stagecraft, performance, design, dramatic literature, and the historical and cultural roots of the theatre arts. Our program prepares individuals to use technology to tell stories and communicate important ideas.
Courses include instruction into design, lighting design, costume and make up design, stagecraft and tech crew on two shows per semester. We develop in students creative and technical problem-solving skills, an appreciation of the design process from research and concept creation through design development and execution.
Regularly contributing to projects builds portfolios, prepares students for transfer to baccalaureate degree programs or entry into the workforce. Come explore our facilities, collaborate with our team of students and faculty while learning to make a hands-on contribution to the creative process.
Why West Valley College?
The faculty in the Department of Theater and Film are excited for the prospect of having you join our talented company of players, designers and technicians here at WVC! Please contact us at your earliest convenience to ask questions or take a tour of our facilities. As you are planning your future as a college student and researching different theater programs, please consider West Valley College as your destination. WVC has a rich tradition of educational excellence, artistic and technological achievement. Our students enjoy small class sizes, immediate performance opportunities for underclassmen, hands-on learning in technical theater, working with outstanding faculty mentors and industry professionals. We believe that WVC offers a comprehensive and dynamic program in Stage Technology – and we hope you will consider joining our team!
Careers
Theatre technicians fill a variety of jobs in the Entertainment Industry. Skills you learn in this major can be useful in working in theatre, film, TV, interior design, and theme parks. Jobs include:
- Set and Costume Designer
- Lighting, Sound, Video Designer
- Exhibit/Display Designer
- Stage Manager
- Board Operator
- Technical Director
- Carpenter
- Prop Master
- Drafter
- Electrician
- Shop Foreman
- Wardrobe Supervisor
- Draper
- Coordinator Hair/Makeup
- Make-Up Artist
- Scenic Painter
- Technology Specialist
- Equipment Operator
- Amusement Park Operations
- Project Manager
- Company Manager
- Production Assistant
- Special Effects Technician
- Property Designer
The Stage Technology Program at West Valley College introduces students to various disciplines in Design, Technology and Stage Management. Our graduates are prepared for future membership and participation with professional organizations, conferences, and unions.
These organizations are also excellent resources for anyone considering a career in the theatrical arts:
The Associate in Arts in Theatre Arts for Transfer is a 60 unit program which provides students the lower division coursework required for transfer to a four year institution for the major in Theatre Arts or Drama.
Students who complete this program will be able to:
- apply film and theatre terminology and language; analyze literature; identify production components;
- distinguish film and theatre styles and historical periods; demonstrate collaboration and team-building skills;
- creatively solve problems; demonstrate communication skills;
- create and demonstrate informed and personal artistic choices in coursework and productions.
Certificate Requirements
Required Core Courses
| Course Name | Course Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| THEA 002A | Introduction to Theatrical Design | 3 units |
| THEA 018A | Introduction to Stage Lighting | 3 units |
| THEA 045B | Stagecraft | 3 units |
| THEA 021A | Practical Theater I (Scene & Stage) | 1 unit |
| MUSC 064 | Sound Design | 3 units |
Elective Units: Select 3 units
| Course Name | Course Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| THEA 020A | Studio Theater Production 3 (American Representational) | 3 units |
| THEA 020B | Studio Theater Production 3 (Modern/Contemporary) | 3 units |
| THEA 020C | Studio Theater Production 3 (Classical Greek & European) | 3 units |
| THEA 020D | Studio Theater Production 3 (Musical and Children's Theater) | 3 units |
