Technical Theatre and Production Arts

East 15’s Cert HE Technical Theatre & Production Arts is a one-year, industry-focused course designed to provide foundational professional training in stage management and technical theatre.

Based at our Colchester Campus, the course mirrors the first year of training on the BA (Hons) Stage Management degree offered at our Loughton Campus. You’ll pursue high-quality, vocational training that prepares you for entry-level backstage roles in theatre and the wider creative industries, or progression to further undergraduate study.

Why this course?

This course offers an intensive, practical introduction to the technical and production skills that underpin live performance. With strong emphasis on learning through doing, you’ll be embedded in production teams from early in the course, gaining hands-on experience in a range of backstage disciplines.

You’ll study at our Colchester Campus, home to the fully equipped 200-seat Lakeside Theatre, where you’ll work on public productions and practical projects. Supported by professionally experienced staff, you’ll develop a broad technical skillset while gaining insight into how professional theatre is made.

The course also provides clear progression routes, with opportunities to move directly into the second year of training on East 15’s BA (Hons) Stage Management or BA (Hons) Creative Producing (Theatre and Short Film).

Who should apply?

• Students seeking a practical, vocational introduction to technical theatre and production arts

• Aspiring stage managers and backstage technicians at the beginning of their training

• Those interested in construction, lighting, sound, costume, props, or scenic arts

• Learners who want a one-year higher education qualification with progression opportunities

• Individuals considering further undergraduate study in stage management or creative producing

What you’ll learn

Throughout the year, you’ll develop essential skills across the technical theatre landscape through lectures and working on public productions.

Areas of training include:

• Stage management

• Construction and design

• Lighting and sound

• Costume, prop making and scenic painting

Your learning experience

• Practical learning: learn through hands-on involvement in productions from early in the course

• Professional facilities: Work at the Lakeside Theatre, workshops, IT suite, seminar rooms, and specialist teaching spaces

• Experienced staff: Training delivered by industry professionals with extensive experience

• Public productions: Gain real-world experience by supporting performances presented to live audiences

• Creative environment: Study at the University of Essex’s 200-acre Colchester Campus, close to regional theatres and arts centres

Visit our website for more information.