Technical Theatre Diploma Program

The Technical Theatre program provides a thorough grounding in technical production skills required by a variety of entertainment media.

Performance classes are held in the Arbutus Studio adjacent to the Capilano University Performing Arts Theatre, which houses the department’s season of plays. The Performing Arts Theatre is complete with a rehearsal hall, changing rooms, technical workshops, a fly-tower, and a 372-seat house.

Theatre students enjoy exceptional access to these facilities and assist in running the theatres in a hands-on, educational experience.

The Theatre department produces a series of plays in which students work in settings simulating professional conditions. The goal is to foster professional discipline and to provide opportunities for students to practise skills learned in the classroom.

Faculty and professional guest artists are the directors and designers for the plays produced by the Theatre department in the Performing Arts Theatre. Shows in this facility are technically challenging and provide valuable experience for student technicians.

In addition to the department productions, students have the opportunity to work on a wide variety of events that take place in the Performing Arts Theatre. Students are involved with the set up and operation of professional, touring theatre productions, folk, jazz, and pop concerts, and a host of other events.

Revues produced in the Arbutus Studio have different goals. They resemble the kind of theatre produced for Fringe Festivals and small companies. In this more intimate venue, students have the freedom to explore. Students are given the opportunity to assume leadership roles, and the production teams are expected to be self-reliant.