Notes from a student – PAA Tech Theatre

Hello, I’m D.S. I am a 10th grader this year. I have been participating in the Performing Arts Academy for 4 years. I have had so much fun during these last 4 years. I am a tech student at the Performing Arts Academy. This means that I build sets, construct soundscapes and landscapes, and learn how to successfully use microphones to enhance the performance. I also learn how to light up the stage and control where the action is viewed.

Around 4 years ago was the time that I began PAA. I started working on small shows at St. Luke’s. I then heard about the summer program, but I didn’t know if there was Technical Theatre. Looking into it, I found out that there was a Technical Theatre Intensive. I began it in the summer of 2012.

Spending a day at PAA is awesome. For the first week, we work on building. This includes building the set, the stage, painting the backdrop, and reading and annotating the script. Then, the second week comes around. We learn the electronic components of Technical Theatre. This includes the soundboard, the lighting system, and the projection system. In the second week, we also finish reading the script and work on rehearsals.

A typical day at the Performing Arts Academy is very fun and interesting. We have a meet and greet at 9:00 AM and spend time with our friends. After this, we begin classes. We learn all of the components of technical theatre during this time. We then have lunch at 11:15 AM. Then, we have more classes and continue to build. The day ends at 4:00 PM.

I really like this program. In the Performing Arts academy, I have made so many amazing friends. I have also learned so much. After being in Performing Arts Academy, I have learned how to use a drill, properly lift stage pieces, and most importantly, how to be part of a team and push through obstacles. The Performing Arts Academy has shaped my life and the activities I now participate in. I have learned so much! I would not be where I am today if I had not participated in the Performing Arts Academy.

A note from PAA: Why the initials instead of D.S.’s full name? We love our students and work hard to keep them safe, especially online.  So we will never post pictures along with student names.