Arts Umbrella launches Stagecraft program for young creatives aged six to 19
Pioneering program teaches youth all aspects of theatre, film, and live-event production
Post Sponsored by arts umbrella
Arts Umbrella’s Stagecraft program. Photo by Albert Law
Arts Umbrella, a leading non-profit committed to youth arts education, has launched Stagecraft—the only program in Western Canada with a curriculum focused entirely on teaching young creatives about theatre, film, and live-event production.
Stagecraft was designed to guide and inspire budding lighting designers, set designers, stage carpenters, costume designers, stage managers, and prop builders and help cultivate an understanding of theatrical storytelling. Offered to children as young as six years old all the way up to age 19, the program pulls back the curtains on the many elements of theatrical production, from costumes and scenery to lighting, sound design and projection.
Named for an important but often overlooked element of any production, Stagecraft is geared toward youth with an interest in design, construction, and other hands-on skills integral to stage production. Throughout the program, students are taught different approaches to sharing theatrical stories, learning necessary elements of production alongside life skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership.
Arts Umbrella’s Stagecraft program. Photo by Albert Law
Hosted in Arts Umbrella’s new core facility on Granville Island, the learning environment is far from a traditional classroom. The comprehensive learning hub features state-of-the-art technology with built-in safety features, and an impressive collection of woodworking and metalworking tools and materials. Here, supported by expert faculty and an adaptable and safe environment, students develop a keen understanding of the relationship between materials, design principles, story and collaboration.
Arts Umbrella’s unique Stagecraft program is dedicated to inspiring the youngest of students and launches as the city of Vancouver regains its vibrancy for live theatre and grows as an epicentre for film production in Canada. Inspired by Arts Umbrella’s philosophy of encouraging play and discovery in support of skills development, the Stagecraft program further demonstrates the non-profit’s commitment to creativity and excellence.
For students eager to dive in before September arrives, there is a three-week Stagecraft Intensive program for teens ages 13 to 19, running during Arts Umbrella’s Summer session from July 11 to 29. Participating students will be a part of the design process for the Summerstage Musical Theatre production of The Old Man and the Old Moon.
Registration for 2022/23 sessional and year-long programs are now open. For more information, visit www.artsumbrella.com or email info@artsumbrella.com.
Post sponsored by Arts Umbrella.