Technical Assistant / Theatre
Job Description
The technical assistant works closely with the designers and the Technical Director on all productions that happen in the Performing Arts Center. They gain hands-on work experience applying the theories they learn in the classroom to the various performing arts productions. This experience provides increased responsibility, problem solving and in-depth understanding of the behind-the-scenes areas of theatre and is most suited for students hoping to pursue a career in Technical Theatre.
Year 1
Responsibility/Function
FIT students are expected to work in the Performing Arts Shops (scenic and costume) and on stage preparing for each production throughout the season. They will become familiar with the tools of each space and proper procedures, while participating in the building and execution of design for the productions. This will include the construction, installation, and painting of scenery, the hanging and focusing of lights and fabrication of props. They will also be introduced to the light and sound system, learning the basic functions of the equipment.
Year 2
Responsibility/Function
FIT students are expected to continue to work in the Performing Arts Shops, increasing their general skills as they learn more advanced techniques in both shops. Students will learn how to maintain lighting and sound equipment. Students will also start to specialize in the different technical departments.
Year 3
Responsibility/Function
FIT students are expected to continue to work in the Performing Arts Shops as they work on in-depth projects for the productions in both shops. Students will be assigned an element of each production to work on with the designers to bring to fruition for the production. They will assist designers in the implementation of their design and learn more advanced programming on the technical systems. FIT students will also manage a technical department for a production.