Theatre Production, Design & Management
Learn stagecraft, lighting, sound, and production design
Program Overview
CoSA's Theatre Production, Design & Management students are some of the busiest high school students in Southern California! Our comprehensive program develops technical theater skills through hands-on experience in our state-of-the-art facilities.
Students in this conservatory, affectionately known as "Technical Theatre Techies," study set design and build sets for CoSA productions in our fully-equipped scene shop. They learn elements of lighting design, as well as how to operate a complex computerized lighting system. Their education also covers costuming, make-up, sound design, and stage, box office, and house management.
With over 70 theatre events annually, both for the school and for groups who rent our facilities, the students have ample opportunity for on-the-job work experience. Graduates of the program have been trained to problem solve, think on their feet and react to changing scenarios, and manage crews safely in fast-paced environments.
Facilities
The Coronado Performing Arts Center at CHS includes:
- 570-seat theatre with orchestra pit and fly space
- Vortek computerized lift system
- Computerized sound and lighting systems
- Intimate 80-seat Black Box theatre
- Fully-equipped scene shop
Program Highlights
A key component of the conservatory experience is semester jury assessment by faculty and professionals. When possible, techies are taken on field trips to other stages and performance venues in southern California to broaden the depth of knowledge about their craft.
Set Design & Construction
Learn to design and build sets in our fully-equipped scene shop for various productions throughout the year.
Lighting Design
Master the principles of lighting design and operate sophisticated computerized lighting systems.
Sound Design & Engineering
Develop skills in audio production, sound effects creation, and live sound mixing for theatrical performances.
Stage Management
Learn to coordinate all aspects of a production, from rehearsals to performances, ensuring smooth operation.
Cutting-Edge Technology
Since 2020, CUSD, the City of Coronado, CoSA Foundation, Coronado Island Film Festival, Coronado Schools Foundation, and the Coronado Community Foundation have collaborated to secure funds to update technology in our facilities. This ongoing project supports:
- Providing the broader community with a high-quality experience when attending events in The Coronado Performing Arts Center
- Giving student learners hands-on experience with updated, industry-standard technology
- Creating professional-level productions that showcase student talent and technical abilities
Career Pathways
Production
- Technical Director
- Stage Manager
- Production Manager
- House Manager
Design
- Set Designer
- Lighting Designer
- Sound Designer
- Costume Designer
Technical
- Carpenter/Scenic Builder
- Lighting Technician
- Audio Engineer
- Rigging Specialist
Ready to Join the Production Team?
Apply to our Theatre Production, Design & Management conservatory to gain hands-on experience with professional equipment and develop the skills needed for a career in technical theatre.