Around 90 students and tutors from RADA, LAMDA, Central School of Speech and Drama, Bristol Old Vic Theatre School and Rose Bruford got a first-hand look at how the latest automation technology works at one of the most recent performance venues to be built in the UK. The exceptional environment of Curve Theatre allowed Stage Technologies experts to demonstrate the versatility, precision and capability of the hardware and software systems. The programme for the day encompassed a winch workshop, Visual Creator 3-D flying demonstration, Nomad control system and operation of flying bars, a careers presentation and a guided tour of the venue.
The Stage Technologies Training Academy's strategy is to support the next generation of talent through apprenticeship programmes, internships, sponsorships, work experience days and workshops on a worldwide basis.
Further student days are planned as part of the Stage Technologies training and education programme and it is anticipated that more colleges of further and higher education will be able to participate. It is hoped that by generating a general awareness of the advantages and achievements of performance automation and by encouraging an interest in theatre engineering, the Curve Theatre/Stage Technologies partnership will facilitate education centres to keep their courses current and relevant.
Another significant event this summer was the Stage Technologies Automation for Education Symposium, held on 22nd May in London, organised by Alex Hitchcock, training development manager of Stage Technologies London, and Julia Barnett of the Central School of Speech and Drama / Centre for Excellence in Training for Theatre. This symposium brought together theatre educationalists and stage engineering professionals for the first time to discuss case studies, current practices and future trends of stage automation in schools and colleges.
The Las Vegas office of Stage Technologies is also a dynamic force when it comes to education initiatives. Activities so far this year have included participation by Kevin Taylor, CEO of Stage Technologies Inc, in a discussion panel with Cirque du Soleil for students at the USITT trade show in March, and presentations and work reviews at education centres such as the University of Arizona.
The US staff have also taken two new interns under their wing this summer, one from NCSA and one from Minnesota.
More information on training opportunities and open days can be requested from training@stagetech.com
(Claire Beeson)
