During any theatrical performance, a whole crew of people is behind the scenes, making the entire show run smoothly. Technicians, or “techies,” are often unnoticed and underappreciated for the hard work they put into a performance. They work alongside the actors and take on many of the tasks needed to put on a production.
Techies are in charge of everything besides the actual acting, including lighting, sound, building the set, costumes, props, and many other elements. Forestburgh Playhouse stated, “Not a single one of these elements can exist alone. All must work together for a successful and entertaining show.” According to Meg Magonigal, the stage manager for the current show, her favorite part of tech is “seeing all of it come together. We work super hard on designing, building, and painting, so when we can step back and see it come to life, it’s super special!”
In the most recent Bob Jones Patriot Players production, students in tech were challenged to build a set that could meet the requirements needed for a competition. “Our main restrictions are our 10×10 and our time limit,” said Ryan Scopes, the student lighting technician for Bob Jones. “All of our set pieces, costumes, props, and anything else must fit inside a 10-foot by 10-foot square. Even one inch over, and we get disqualified.” This is just one of the strict rules technicians must follow during a competition.
During competition season, technical students must also participate in an individual event. They can pick whatever category they would like, such as costume design or playwriting, and compete in it in hopes of advancing to the next level of competition. “I did a playwriting IE, and I basically prepared by thinking of every single detail that would go into a stage show,” stated Amelia Gatzke, a technical student at Bob Jones. “I also have to have answers for every single possible question the judges could ask.” This demonstrates the hard work and dedication these students put into preparing for their competitions. Whether it’s a puppet or a lighting design, all students work tirelessly, spending months preparing for their chosen events.
Tech classes are not only a fun way to learn more about the technology used to run a show, but they are also a great opportunity to meet new people! “My favorite part of tech is definitely the people,” said Ryan Scopes. “I have made so many amazing friends here, and I don’t know where I would be at Bob Jones without tech.”
Whether they are competing in a statewide competition or putting on a regular show, technical students pull more than their weight. They stay for late nights, skillfully painting backdrops or handcrafting props for actors to use, and are more than deserving of appreciation. So next time you see a show, don’t forget to thank the technical team!
