Fine and Performing Arts, Hixson-Lied College of
Date of this Version
5-26-2021
Citation
A thesis presented to the faculty of the Graduate College at the University of Nebraska in partial fulfillment of requirements for the degree of Master of Fine Arts
Major: Theatre Arts
Under the supervision of Jamie Bullins
Lincoln, Nebraska, May 2021
Abstract
The Nebraska Repertory theatre, in partnership with the Johnny Carson school of Theatre, Film, and Emerging Media Arts at the University of Nebraska – Lincoln choose to produce A Midsummer Night’s Dream, directed by Christina Kirk, for the first show of their 2021-2022 season. A Midsummer Night’s Dream was produced on the Howell stage, a 300 seat proscenium theatre located in the Temple building on the campus of University of Nebraska – Lincoln and originating performance space and alma mater of Johnny Carson. I was assigned the role as Technical Director by the department in March 2019. As technical director I was to be in charge of budgeting materials and labor, drafting scenery, personnel management, safety (especially during a pandemic), scheduling, engineering, loading and removing of scenery from the venue, communicating and collaborating with other departments, and upholding the conceptual design of the scenic designer. Normally the Nebraska Repertory Theatre produced four to six shows a season but due to the continuous outbreak of COVID-19 the Rep was to produce only one show this season, Dracula: Mina’s Quest, and A Midsummer Night’s Dream was moved from May 2021 to September 2021.
This thesis will focus on the writer’s Technical Direction process to demonstrate his proficiency in the steps and procedures notated in the paragraph above. This proficiency depends on a multitude of variables, including maintaining budget, safety, schedule, and design.
Advisor: Jamie Bullins
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