Shaminda Amarakoon, Chair
Jennifer McClure, Associate Chair
The curriculum of the Technical Design and Production (TD&P) program aims to train those who appreciate the artistry of technical systems as much as the science necessary to execute them, those who enjoy solving challenges through collaboration, and who are driven to discover and innovate. And above all, we train those who want to foster a community where everyone belongs.
The program brings together immensely dedicated full-time faculty, lecturers, and production staff members with a primary focus on supporting students in their career goals. In a field that is in constant tension with rapidly evolving technology and spectacle, we train technical managers who put people before product while achieving the artistic goals.
The program weaves hands-on skill courses such as Drafting and Stage Rigging Techniques, theory-based courses like Technical Management and Imagining an Anti-Racist Production Process, and elective courses that allow concentrations in such fields as production management, technical direction, stage machinery, and automation, or theater planning and consulting. The program’s faculty and staff offer courses covering a wide range of topics, including production planning, drafting, structural design, rigging, automation, lighting, mechanical design, show control, properties, costumes, sound and video technology, theater engineering, technical management, and health and safety. Seminars introduce students to noted professionals. We encourage students to augment their education with courses from other programs and schools at Yale, including Architecture, Management, and Engineering & Applied Science.
These courses are paired with professional work assignments (PWAs) that further students’ skills and goals. Some PWAs place students in technical management roles including assistant production electrician, assistant properties manager, assistant technical director, associate production manager, associate safety adviser, production electrician, production manager, projection engineer, properties manager, technical director, sound engineer, and stage carpenter. Students can request additional roles or research projects for PWAs. All professional work assignments serve to give students practical management training or research time to complement and reinforce anti-racism training, skills, and theory from the classroom. Additionally, they expose students to new techniques, and students learn how to work with different teams effectively and safely. The successful completion of eight PWAs is necessary for the degree.
The M.F.A./Certificate program includes a research thesis in the final year, designed, written, realized, and presented by the student in the student’s area of concentration. The thesis is an opportunity to investigate and highlight a topic in technical theater that has or will impact the field.
Plan of Study: Technical Design and Production
Classes of 2025 and 2026
Required Sequence
Year one
| Course | Subject |
|---|---|
| DRAM 9a/b | TD&P Seminar |
| DRAM 109a/b | Structural Design for the Stage |
| DRAM 119b | Electricity |
| DRAM 149a | Production Planning |
| DRAM 159a | Creating a Positive Theater Safety Culture with Supporting Technology |
| DRAM 169a | Shop Technology |
| DRAM 169b | Rigging I |
| DRAM 179a | Drafting I: AutoCAD |
| DRAM 179b | Technical Design I |
| DRAM 199b | Professional Development for Technical Managers |
| DRAM 559b | Imagining an Anti-Racist Production Process |
| One elective (fall term) | |
| Three professional work assignments | |
Year two
| Course | Subject |
|---|---|
| DRAM 9a/b | TD&P Seminar |
| DRAM 209a | Physics of Stage Machinery |
| DRAM 249a | Technical Management I |
| DRAM 249b | Technical Management II |
| DRAM 299b | Technical Writing |
| Two courses from history requirement list (see below) | |
| Six electives (three in the fall, three in the spring) | |
| Three professional work assignments* | |
Year three
| Course | Subject |
|---|---|
| DRAM 9a/b | TD&P Seminar |
| DRAM 399a | Technical Design and Production Thesis |
| Seven electives | |
| Two professional work assignments* | |
*Students in their second or third year may request the substitution of a substantial project for one professional work assignment.
Class of 2024
Required Sequence
Year four
| Course | Subject |
|---|---|
| DRAM 9a/b | TD&P Seminar |
| DRAM 399a | Technical Design and Production Thesis |
| Two electives | |
| Two professional work assignments | |
Additional Requirements for the Degree
Anti-Racist Theater Practice Requirement
Technical Design and Production students are required to enroll in DRAM 559b, Imagining an Anti-Racist Production Practice, in their first year in order to fulfill the School’s anti-racist theater practice requirement. Combined with the prerequisite workshop, Everyday Justice: Anti-Racism as Daily Practice, this course offers vital strategies for the lifelong development of individual and communal anti-racist practice.
Theater History Requirement
It is recommended that in their second year of study, students in Technical Design and Production enroll in two terms of any of the following courses in order to fulfill the School’s theater history requirement. Alternative history courses could be proposed by the student but must be approved by the TD&P faculty.
- DRAM 6a/b, Survey of Theater and Drama
- DRAM 21a, Founding Visions
- DRAM 29a, History of Decorative Styles
- DRAM 122a/b, The History of Set Design
- DRAM 125a/b, The History of Costume
- DRAM 129b, History of Theater Architecture
- DRAM 155a/b, Evolution of Cut and Cloth
Elective Sequence
Electives are determined in consultation with a faculty adviser and allow each student flexibility in selecting courses in the student’s chosen area of concentration. Suggested electives for common areas of concentration (production management, technical direction, stage machinery and automation, theatre consulting) are offered in the TD&P Guidebook.
Graduation Requirements
For TD&P students to be eligible to participate in Commencement ceremonies at the end of their residency, all courses and Professional Work Assignments (PWA) need to be satisfactorily completed as outlined above except for DRAM 399a/b, where a student need only to be approved to go out to readers with their thesis. Students will receive their diplomas upon completion of all requirements above and submitting a completed version of their thesis to the faculty.
Yale Cabaret
Technical Design and Production students are encouraged to work in all capacities at the Yale Cabaret; however, this participation is understood to be in addition to and in no way a substitution for required program work. Unless assigned as a PWA, no student with a grade of Incomplete, and no student on academic warning, may participate in the Yale Cabaret in any capacity.
Courses of Instruction
DRAM 6a/b, Survey of Theater and Drama See description under Dramaturgy and Dramatic Criticism.
DRAM 9a/b, TD&P Seminar This weekly course brings together all three years of TD&P students. Sessions include presentations by industry professionals, reviewing the production process of DGSD and YRT shows, training in specific aspects of technical theater, career development strategy, and departmental conversations on equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging. Students with a management role on a production are expected to prepare a presentation in collaboration with the other managers to critique their work, focusing on the challenges and successes encountered throughout the process. Shaminda Amarakoon
DRAM 29a, History of Decorative Styles This exploration of global decorative and period styles builds off the history of interior design with throughlines exploring building design, furniture, everyday objects, and written communication. Lectures are slide-based, offering specific names, terminology, and research sources, often with a focus on how they relate to choices made regarding set design and decoration. Class projects encourage students to find examples of elements discussed in their everyday environments and integrate specific plays set in different locations and time periods. Open to non-TD&P and non-Drama students with permission of the instructor. Jennifer McClure
DRAM 59a, Creating a Positive Theater Safety Culture How do you create a positive theater safety culture that balances OSHA requirements with artistic vision? Topics include risk assessment, chemical and fire hazards, weapons, special effects, fire prevention, code requirements, and emergency procedures. Case studies are discussed, along with the safety-related requirements for work on the stage. Class topics fulfill the requirements for the OSHA-10 Outreach Course in General Industry, and students who successfully complete the course receive an Outreach Card from OSHA. Offered for first-year stage management students. Open to non-TD&P students with prior permission of the instructor. Anna Glover
DRAM 69a, Welding Technology A course in the fundamentals and applications of electric arc welding techniques (TIG, MIG, STICK) as well as brazing and soldering. Emphasis is on welding of metals including: steel, aluminum, brass, copper, etc.; joining dissimilar metals; fixturing; and evaluating the appropriate process for an application. The majority of class time is spent welding, brazing, or soldering. Enrollment is limited to six. David Johnson
DRAM 69b, Mechanical Instrumentation A course for both the arts and sciences that goes beyond an introductory shop course, offering an in-depth study utilizing hands-on instructional techniques. Surface finishes and tolerances versus cost and time, blueprint reading, machineability of materials, feeds and speeds, and grinding of tools are discussed and demonstrated. David Johnson
DRAM 89b, Costume Construction This course develops a working knowledge of the process of constructing a period costume. Students are guided over the course of the semester through pattern development, layout and cutting, basic dressmaking and tailoring techniques, fitting bespoke garments, and managing shop workflow as they work together to build a period garment. Enrollment is limited to five. Carmel Dundon
DRAM 109a/b, Structural Design for the Stage This course concurrently develops the precalculus mathematics and physical sciences requisite for advanced study in modern theater technology. It concentrates on the application of statics to the design of safe, scenic structures. Assignments relate structural design principles to production applications. Open to non-TD&P and non-Drama students with prior permission of the instructor. Bronislaw Sammler
DRAM 119b, Electricity This course presents the basics of theoretical and practical electricity and electronics of live event production. Open to non-TD&P students with permission of the instructor. Eric Lin
DRAM 122a/b, The History of Stage Design See description under Design.
DRAM 125a/b, The History of Costume See description under Design.
DRAM 129b, History of Theater Architecture A survey of European and American theater architecture as it relates to cultural and technological changes through time. This course uses the writings of current and past authorities on such subjects as acoustics, space layout, and decoration to illustrate and evaluate these buildings’ many variations. Open to non-TD&P and non-Drama students with prior permission of the instructor. Alan Hendrickson
DRAM 139b, Sound Engineering and Design This course provides students with the basic skills and vocabulary necessary to perform as sound engineers. Students are introduced to standard sound system design practice, associated paperwork, production design tools, acoustic assessment tools, and sound delivery systems addressing both conceptual and sound reinforcement design. Open to non-TD&P students with permission of the instructor. Michael Backhaus
DRAM 149a, Production Planning An introduction to the School and Yale Repertory Theatre production planning process, including the estimating of materials and labor for all phases of production. This course then explores the tools and techniques useful to each production program: scenery, paints, props, costumes, lighting, sound, projections, and stage operations. Includes lecture and discussion sections, mixed with individual and group projects, that demonstrate the budget and planning systems used at the School and Yale Rep for every show. Open to non-TD&P students. Jonathan Reed
DRAM 155a/b, Evolution of Cut and Cloth See description under Design.
DRAM 159a, Creating a Positive Theater Safety Culture with Supporting Technology Combining safety and health topics with a practical application of technology allows students to see how the two can support each other to create a world-class theater practice. This course covers key safety topics including risk assessment, chemical and fire hazards, weapons, special effects, and emergency procedures, alongside practical training in Microsoft Office software, material handling, and scaffold and lift training. After taking this class, students have the foundational knowledge to leverage software and technical resources as they assess and mitigate risks commonly found in theater practice. Class topics fulfill the requirements for the OSHA-10 Outreach Course in General Industry, and students who successfully complete the course receive an Outreach Card from OSHA. Anna Glover, Jonathan Reed
DRAM 169a, Shop Technology This course serves as an introduction to the scene shops and technology available at the School. Materials, construction tools and techniques, and shop organization and management are examined in the context of scenic production. Students are assigned weekly projects to demonstrate proficiency with the tools and techniques covered in the lectures, as well as a culminating project at the end of the term. Open to non-TD&P students with permission of the instructors. Latiana “LT” Gourzong, Matt Welander
DRAM 169b, Rigging I This course examines traditional and nontraditional rigging techniques. Equipment discussed includes, but is not limited to, counterweight and mechanical rigging systems and their components. Class format is both lecture and lab with written and practical projects assigned to further the student’s understanding. Open to non-TD&P students with permission of the instructor. Latiana “LT” Gourzong
DRAM 179a, Drafting I: AutoCAD This course explores drafting as the means to communicate ideas and design solutions effectively. Students start the term sketching by hand and quickly transition to using AutoCAD to create drawings and three-dimensional models. Topics are presented through a combination of lectures, demonstrations, and lab work. Students complete individual assignments and participate in class critiques of their work. Open to non-TD&P students with permission of the instructor. Matt Welander
DRAM 179b, Technical Design I This course builds on the skills learned in DRAM 179a. Topics include the technical design process, fundamentals of scenery construction, and the development of clear and detailed shop drawings using industry best practices and graphic standards. Material is presented through a combination of lectures, discussions, group assignments, and lab work. Students complete individual assignments and participate in class critiques of their work. Open to non-TD&P students. Prerequisite: DRAM 179a or permission of the instructor. Latiana “LT” Gourzong
DRAM 189a, Costume Production This course provides the opportunity for an in-depth analysis of and conversation about the processes involved in realizing a set of stage-worthy costumes. Focus is on understanding the design, build, and technical methods, including interpreting the sketch and research; selecting and sourcing fabrics/materials; budgeting; and developing strong, communicative working relationships between the costume designer, production staff, stage managers, actors, directors, and other members of the creative team. Christine Szczepanski
DRAM 199b, Professional Development for Technical Managers This course blends the culture of good work practices with the skills, experiences, and technology necessary to meet the demanding needs of live production. Topics range from mental health and well-being, to digital and design accessibility, to safety culture, to technical writing for career advancement. Open to non-TD&P students with permission of the instructors. Anna Glover, Jonathan Reed
DRAM 209a, Physics of Stage Machinery This course introduces Newtonian mechanics as an aid in predicting the behavior of moving scenery. Theoretical performance calculations are developed to approximate the actual performance of stage machinery. Open to non-TD&P students with prior permission of the instructor. Eric Lin
DRAM 209b, Hydraulics and Pneumatics Discussions of concepts and components begun in DRAM 209a are continued for fluid power systems. Topics include hydraulic power unit design, the selection and operation of electro-hydraulic proportional valves, load lifting circuits using counterbalance valves, and pneumatic system design. Emphasis is placed on the practical aspects of component selection, especially for cylinders, hose, and fittings. Open to non-TD&P students with prior permission of the instructor. Eric Lin
DRAM 219a, Lighting Technology This course combines lectures and lab demonstrations on the setup and use of lighting equipment, technology, and effects used in live events. Students learn of the available technology and its proper use and handling. Topics include power distribution, DMX, Power and Circuit plots, LED fixtures, moving lights, board programming, fog and haze units, and practicals. Open to non-TD&P and non-Drama students with permission of the instructor. Donald Titus
DRAM 219b, Lighting Production Process This course prepares the student in the procedures of translating the light design from concept to the stage and fosters a collaborative process between the designer and technician. Each student is given a light plot at the beginning of the course, and over the term using the various paperwork, software, and workflow needed, creates a plan for loading their show into its theater, creating a channel check procedure, as well as creating the load-out plan. Open to non-TD&P and non-Drama students with permission of the instructor. Donald Titus
DRAM 229a, Theater Planning and Construction This course is an introduction to planning, design, documentation, and construction of theaters, concert halls, and similar spaces. Emphasis is placed on the role of the theater consultant in functional planning and architectural design. The goal is to introduce the student to the field and provide a basic understanding of the processes and vocabulary of theater planning. Open to non-TD&P and non-Drama students with permission of the instructor. Matt Welander, Eugene Leitermann
DRAM 239a/b, Projection Engineering This course provides students with the skills and vocabulary necessary to perform as projection engineers. Students are introduced to the paperwork to design, the equipment to implement, and the software to operate a successful video projection system while interfacing with a projection designer. Open to non-Design and non-TD&P students with permission of the instructor. Anja Powell
DRAM 249a, Technical Management I This course explores topics integral to the management of technical production processes, including effective communication, building strong teams, and efficient resource management. Lectures, guest presentations, and class discussions touch on a variety of techniques, standard practices, and legal parameters found in many theatrical producing organizations. Assignments provide further exploration of related topics in the form of written material, and weekly group discussions about management observations put theory into practice. Open to non-TD&P students. Jonathan Reed, Shaminda Amarakoon
DRAM 249b, Technical Management II A continuation of DRAM 249a, this course continues the exploration of effective communication, building strong teams, and efficient resource management in service of managing technical production processes. Lectures, guest presentations, and class discussions touch on a variety of techniques, standard practices, and legal parameters found in many theatrical producing organizations. Assignments provide further exploration of related topics in the form of written material, and weekly group discussions about management observations put theory into practice. DRAM 249a is not a prerequisite for this class. Open to non-TD&P students. Jonathan Reed, Shaminda Amarakoon
DRAM 269a, Rigging II This course builds on the concepts introduced in DRAM 169b. Topics include rigging solutions for Broadway and national tours, flying performers, fall protection, and rescue techniques. Projects include both written and hands-on work. Prerequisites: a grade of High Pass or better in DRAM 169b and the ability to work at heights. Neil Mulligan
DRAM 279b, Technical Design II This course examines the technical design process through the development of solutions to scenery construction projects. Solutions, utilizing traditional and modern materials and fabrication techniques, are studied from the perspectives of efficiency, budget, labor, safety, and structural integrity. Enrollment is limited to ten. Neil Mulligan
DRAM 289a, Draping This course explores the fundamentals of draping. Emphasis is on students developing a working knowledge of basic draping principles and techniques through guided exercises on the form and the study of example garments and visual research. Enrollment is limited to six. Carmel Dundon
DRAM 299b, Technical Writing The objective of this second-year course is to improve writing skills, assisting students to convey information clearly, logically, and effectively. The course focuses on interpreting, editing, and creating forms of technical documentation produced in the field of technical management. The course also includes thesis preparation and topic development, culminating in a thesis proposal submitted to program faculty. C. Nikki Mills
DRAM 309a, Mechanical Design for Theater Applications This course focuses on the process of mechanical design for temporary and permanent stage machinery. Design considerations and component selections are examined through lectures, discussions, assignments, and project reviews. Other topics include motion control, fluid power circuit design, and industrial standards. Alan Hendrickson
DRAM 319a, Automation Control Designing and constructing control systems for mechanized scenery involves theoretical and practical work in electrical power distribution, switching logic, electronics, and software programming. The material covered in lectures and labs progresses from simple on-off electrical control, to relay logic, motor speed control, and finally full positioning control. Enrollment limited to eight. Open to non-TD&P students with prior permission of the instructor. Eric Lin
[DRAM 329a, Theater Engineering: Lighting, Sound, Video, and Communication Systems This course introduces the basic concepts of the design of lighting, sound, video, and communication systems and infrastructure within the context of the overall design of performing arts facilities. Topics include programming and budgeting equipment systems, code requirements, and integration with other building systems. The student develops and details basic equipment systems within a building envelope provided by the instructor. Open to non-TD&P students with permission of the instructors. Not offered in 2023–2024]
DRAM 359b, Safety, Health, and Risk Management in Theater This course examines the application of risk assessment and risk registers, codes, and standards (including OSHA 29CFR1910 and 29CFR1926, NFPA 101 Life Safety Code, etc.) in theater through the lens of behavior-based safety. Students learn how to implement and maintain a robust safety culture within a theatrical environment and gain an understanding of risk analysis and resilience. Students who successfully complete the course fulfill the requirements for the OSHA-30 Outreach Course in General Industry and receive an Outreach Card from OSHA. Open to non-TD&P students with permission of the instructor. Anna Glover
DRAM 369a, Rope Access I This course follows the training requirements for obtaining Level 1 Technician certification per the Society of Professional Rope Access Technicians (SPRAT). Practice and evaluation consists of verbal and written tests on rope access programs and equipment and demonstrated ability on individual maneuvers, rescue maneuvers, and rigging. Class size is limited to six participants. Prerequisite: Must safely and efficiently ascend and descend a vertical set of ropes by the end of the first class session. Neil Mulligan
DRAM 369b, Rope Access II This course follows the training requirements for obtaining Level 2 Technician certification per the Society of Professional Rope Access Technicians (SPRAT). Practice and evaluation consists of verbal and written tests on rope access programs and equipment, and demonstrated ability on individual maneuvers, rescue maneuvers, and rigging. Class size is limited to six participants. Prerequisite: Successful completion of Rope Access I. Neil Mulligan
DRAM 379b, Drafting II: Inventor and Fusion 360 This course explores 3D parametric modeling for technical design in the entertainment industry. Students develop proficiency with Autodesk Inventor and Fusion 360 through demonstrations, lab work, and individual assignments. Open to non-TD&P students. Prerequisite: DRAM 179a or permission of the instructor. Matt Welander
DRAM 389a, Properties Design and Construction I Through lectures and demonstrations, students study design and fabrication of stage properties. Assignments encourage students to develop craft skills and explore the application of traditional and new techniques to production practice. Topics covered include, but are not limited to, prop paperwork and organization, furniture construction and repair, upholstery, blood effects, patternmaking for props, and rattan construction. Enrollment is limited to eight. Open to non-TD&P students with prior permission of the instructors. Jennifer McClure, David P. Schrader
DRAM 389b, Properties Design and Construction II Through lectures and demonstrations, students study design and fabrication of stage properties. Assignments encourage students to develop craft skills and explore the application of traditional and new techniques to production practice. Topics covered include, but are not limited to, foam carving, faux paint treatments, mask making, molding and casting, and fake food. Enrollment is limited to eight. DRAM 389a is not a pre-requisite for this course, and this course can be taken prior to 389a if desired. Open to non-TD&P students with prior permission of the instructors. Jennifer McClure, David P. Schrader
DRAM 399a, Technical Design and Production Thesis Prior to the start of the course, each student submits a thesis proposal to the program faculty for review. The thesis topic must be applicable to advancing conversations, concepts, or practices within the technical theater industry by addressing a production- or planning-oriented subject with a new or updated perspective. Following topic approval, throughout the course as well as under a faculty and/or content adviser’s guidance, the student develops the thesis while continuing to build on research and writing skills from DRAM 299b. After revision and adviser’s approval, the work is presented to and evaluated and critiqued by program faculty and three independent readers and/or evaluators. Additional details on thesis requirements, including parameters for the reader’s version, can be found in both the TD&P Guidebook and the Thesis Requirements Document. C. Nikki Mills
DRAM 409a, Advanced Structural Design for the Stage This course builds on the concepts introduced in DRAM 109a/b. Topics include aluminum beam and column design, plywood design, and trusses and cables. Prerequisite: DRAM 109a/b or permission of the instructor. Bronislaw Sammler
DRAM 419b, Systems Integration for Live Entertainment Topics include data communication and networking principles; details of entertainment-specific protocols such as DMX512, MIDI, OSC, and sACN; and practical applications and principles of system design using Arduino and Medialon Manager. Prerequisites include at least one of the following: DRAM 119b, DRAM 139b, DRAM 219a, DRAM 239a, DRAM 319a, DRAM 329a, or permission of the instructor. Enrollment limited to eight. Open to non-TD&P students with permission of the instructor. Eric Lin
[DRAM 429a, Revit for Theater Consultants This course explores the basics of Autodesk Revit and Autodesk Build and their use in the planning and construction of performing arts buildings. Topics include architectural modeling and detailing, generating project deliverables, document management and model coordination, and family content creation. Open to non-TD&P and non-Drama students with permission of the instructor. Not offered 2023–2024]
[DRAM 429b, Theater Engineering: Overhead Rigging and Stage Machinery This course introduces the basic concepts necessary to design overhead rigging and stage machinery systems for performing arts buildings. Topics include the role of the theater consultant in the architectural design process; programming, designing, and budgeting stage equipment; relevant standards and code requirements; and collaborating with other design disciplines to successfully integrate stage equipment and supporting infrastructure into the final building design. Open to non-TD&P students with permission of the instructor. Not offered 2023–2024]
DRAM 439a, Architectural Acoustics This course is both an introduction to the basic principles and terminology of acoustics and a survey of the acoustics of performance venues, with an emphasis on theaters. Topics include physical acoustics, room acoustics, psychoacoustics, electro-acoustics, sound isolation, noise and vibration control, and measurement and simulation of the built environment. The goals are to furnish the student with a background in acoustical theory and its practical application to performance spaces, and to instill the basics of recognizing and modifying aspects of the built environment that determine acoustic conditions. Open to non-TD&P students with permission of the instructor. Damian Doria
[DRAM 469b, Commercial Scenery Production This course examines the planning and execution of scenery in shops servicing the Broadway theater and live event industries. Topics include commercial industry overview, shop management, the bid process, design and fabrication techniques, theater installation, and planning for tours. Projects include creating a bid estimate and a commercial tech design. Class format includes lectures, guest presentations, and field trips to commercial shops in the NYC region providing both observational and networking opportunities for students. Open to non-TD&P and non-Drama students with permission of the instructor. Not offered 2023–2024]
DRAM 489a/b, Costume Seminar This course provides the opportunity for in-depth analysis and conversation among costume designers about the processes involved in realizing a set of stage-worthy costumes. The class includes all students and technical interns studying costume at the School. Using current production assignments as the central focus, we explore the translation of the design into realization through the build and technical processes, including budgeting, sourcing, and shopping; interpreting the rendering and research; selecting materials; fittings; and developing strong relationships with the costume and production staffs, other designers, stage managers, and directors. We continually explore the implementations of strategies toward building a sustainable, anti-racist, theater costuming practice. Ilona Somogyi, Christine Szczepanski
DRAM 529b, Theater Planning Seminar This course is a continuation of DRAM 229a, focusing on the renovation and rehabilitation of existing buildings for performing arts use through a term-long design project. Teams of students develop conceptual designs for the reuse of a specific building, after touring the building and conducting programming interviews with potential users. The students’ design work is informed by guest lectures by architects, acousticians, historic preservationists, and other design and construction professionals. The design project provides students the opportunity to apply the knowledge acquired in DRAM 329b, 429a, 429b, and 439a, although these courses are not prerequisites. Prerequisite: DRAM 229a. Matt Welander, Eugene Leitermann
DRAM 549a/b, Independent Study Students who want to pursue special research or the study of topics not covered by formal courses may propose an independent study. Following program approval of the topic, the student meets regularly with an adviser to seek tutorial advice. Credit for independent study is awarded by the program, based on the adviser’s recommendation. Tutorial meetings to be arranged. Faculty
DRAM 559b, Imagining an Anti-Racist Production Process This first-year TD&P course uses readings, viewings, activities, and discussions to understand some of the ways systemic racism and systemic oppression have influenced and continue to play out in current theatrical production processes, the broader theatrical form, and in theater’s engagement with the community. All participants come into this course at different points in the journey of both an understanding of anti-racism practices and an understanding of production practices. The course aims to demonstrate these are not mutually exclusive endeavors. Students will explore topics and practice discussion tools that serve not only future conversations on race and oppressive practices but can also serve other difficult conversations. The course hopes to cultivate a desire to lean in further at the end of the term as this is life-long work. This course is about building community in production in the service of a more just and equitable field. Prerequisite: artEquity’s workshop, Everyday Justice: Anti-Racism as Daily Practice or another comparable training. Open to non-TD&P and non-Drama students with the permission of the instructors. Shaminda Amarakoon, Grace O’Brien
DRAM 659b, Facilitation for an Anti-Racist Production Process This course provides training and practice in facilitating conversations on anti-racism and anti-oppression in theater. Students work in teams to develop topics, resource materials, discussions, and activities for the participants of DRAM 559b. Beyond content development, the students practice skills useful in crafting the container for difficult conversations. By gaining comfort with the uncomfortable, students learn to support spaces for challenging conversations aimed at improving our working environments. These skills and experiences have become ever more essential to managers and leaders in the arts field. Prerequisite: DRAM 559b or another drama course satisfying the School’s Anti-racist Theater Practice requirement. Open to non-TD&P students with the permission of the instructors. Shaminda Amarakoon, Grace O’Brien