Props & Scenery

The Props and Scenery course is available to those students who demonstrate potential for, and wish to acquire expertise in, the technical and production aspects of the entertainment industry. The program is structured to provide skills and experience consistent with the growing needs of this industry. The Props and Scenery course includes aspects of scenery and properties construction, scenic painting, metal fabrication, upholstery and technical and general drawing. Students gain experience in handling scenery, scenery flying and the general backstage skills of the mechanist as they are closely involved in the practical work of live production including film and television on a regular basis.

Production Experience

Students’ work is directed by staff on productions mounted by the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts. Students begin by assisting in those productions until sufficiently skilled to perform designated tasks. In the final year, students are expected to collaborate on productions at a professional level of competence.

Year 1

First year students are provided with the foundation skills and knowledge required to use a wide range of construction techniques in props, scenery, metal fabrication and scenic art to work in the theatre and production workshop. These core attributes will be exercised through class work, projects and in work undertaken in the production workshop. First year units also include Technical and Computer-Aided Drawing, History of Architecture, History of Theatre and Theatre Studies, Model Making, Sewing Basics and Soft Props as well as a unit teaching the skills and knowledge in the workplace in order to work safely. Students are also introduced to the process of planning and research.

Year 2

Students in second year extend and build on prior knowledge and skills, and are expected to coordinate small teams in positions such as Head Mechanist and Head Propmaker and become involved in the decision-making process. The units taught to these students cover more advanced construction and painting techniques. The key skills of analysing financial information to develop a budget are also expanded upon through class projects. Occupational Health and Safety policies and practices in the workplace are further developed. Other second year units include Props and Furniture Construction, Upholstery, Staging Technology, Art Department for Film and Television and Sculpting and Moulding.

Year 3

The third year of study requires students to undertake a major project of interest. Students analyse design or production elements to determine their areas of research. The innovation and experimentation of various techniques will underpin the students’ project. Professional standards are expected. By third year, students are required to show particular expertise in construction, painting or props, or a combination of these, allowing students the ability to direct their own course of study. These students also undertake a period of external professional placement that allows them to gain further experience. Students receive an appropriate attachment for production experience external to the Academy. The purpose of this work is to develop and strengthen the proficiencies and skills required in the industry.

If you would like more information about this course, please visit Future Students or contact:

Student Recruitment

Telephone: (61 8) 134 ECU

Email: futurestudy@ecu.edu.au