Southeastern Theatre Conference, Inc.

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interest areas -> design and technology

What is the importance of
Design and Technology in SETC?

The importance of the visual is an essential aspect of the story-telling nature of theatre. As modern audiences are bombarded by stimuli in movies, television and computers, the significance of the design aspects of theatre cannot be denied. While the essentials of stage design haven’t changed in the last century, the technology that supports it is changing every day. SETC’s Design and Technology Committee encourages training and performance that remain true to the tenets of modern design while, when available, utilizing the latest in theatrical technology.

Who is involved in Design and Technology?

This area is open to all members of SETC at the professional, educational or community level who have an interest in all aspects of theatrical design and technology, both in practical and educational applications.

Program emphasis at the Annual Spring Convention:

Design and Technology serves as a vital source of information and education to the hundreds of members of SETC who list them as areas of interest and importance to them. Known for the annual convention’s Student Design and Technology Competition, this showcase of student work unites well-known theatre professionals and students in set, costume and lighting design in a “meeting of minds” to share opinions, ideas and experiences. The chance to learn from and have their work evaluated by modern masters of stage design is an invaluable learning tool for student designers and technicians. Each year, workshops in all aspects of design are presented which are designed to explore such diverse issues as:

Practical topics
Hands-on demonstration in design and craft areas
Costumes
Design and Tech issues
Product introductions
Theories in sound and lighting technology
Pedagogy at the secondary and university level

College Interviews for Design/Tech Students during the Annual Spring Convention...

Undergraduate School Interviews:
For students seeking to study Theatre Design and/or Technology
Design/Tech students who seek admittance or transfer to college, university or advanced training programs exhibit their portfolios in a special exhibit area. Representatives from over 65 schools located throughout the United States review the materials and request on-site interviews with students whom they consider to be candidates for their programs. More Info >>

Graduate School Design/Tech Interviews:
For students seeking advanced degrees in Theatre Design and Technology
Students present and display their designs or portfolios during Graduate School Auditions and Design/Tech Interviews. Applicants present their work; briefly outline their strengths and interests for 2 minutes to College and University reps. After the presentations, students discuss their work one-on-one with representatives at their display and in interviews. More Info >>

Education Expo:
Over 70 Colleges, Universities and Training Schools display their programs for 2½ days in a special Exhibit Area. Students can visit and speak directly to school representatives about their programs and opportunities at the schools. More Info >>

Design and Technology Convention Highlights.....

Design Keynotes:
Professional scenic, lighting and costume designers share their insights and experiences through formal keynote presentations at the annual SETC Spring Convention. Three keynote speeches are offered annually by the Distinguished Guest Artists who critique the Design Competition. More Info >>

Undergraduate and Graduate School Portfolio Reviews:
Students and new designers and technicians are invited to bring their portfolios for review by teachers and professionals in their areas of expertise. Reviewers will give feedback on both content and format.

Workshops:
Approximately 50 workshops are offered in design and technical areas of expertise.

Commercial Exhibits:
Commercial companies serving all facets of the theatre industry feature the latest
innovations and technology in the convention’s Exhibit Hall. More Info >>

Design and Technology, workshop samples
From past SETC Conventions:

Orlando FL - 2006
Combined Media Theory: Dance and Digital Technologies II:
The outcomes and challenges of creating Duet for Dancer and Keyboard. In this piece, two performers used digital technologies to improvise their music, lighting, video environment and real time video processing. Both prerecorded video and live captured video were used. A third and completely digital performer appeared in the piece; a realistic and virtual dancer avatar.
Millinery Techniques for Buckram and Straw:
Millinery techniques demonstrated and clarified, including patterning, basic construction, sizing and milling, covering and trimming for the buckram frame hat and straw brand hat.

Greensboro, NC - 2005
Props and Puppets: How'd They Do That?:
A demonstration of how to create a number of properties and some of the puppets for some of theatre's most problematic productions, such as Little Shop of Horrors.
The Plantation Family Wardrobe:
Through a definitive investigation of the Shirley Plantation Collection, modern historians, dramatists and re-enactors can glean specific information about a nineteenth century plantation family and the plantation slaves through a significant part of their personality and clothing.

Chattanooga, TN - 2004
Design South: Lighting:
This invitational panel exhibits the work of regional and national lighting designers. Designers will present examples of their work within the profession for comment and discussion.
Photo Silkscreen Techniques for Costumes:
Explore photo silkscreen techniques to enhance fabrics for theatrical costumes. Demonstrations will cover preparing the screen to printing the fabric.

Contact the Design and Technology Committee Chair:
Troy Snyder
Fairmont State University
Fairmont, WV 26554
tsnyder4@fairmontstate.edu

Related Links:
USITT: www.usitt.org.

Jonathan Becker, featured craftsman
at the first SETC Mall