Inside the newly built theater at Bishop Amat, a one-of-a-kind technical theater class comes to life. It’s led by Joanna Fontillas and gives students a real look into what goes on behind the scenes in theater.
“The overall structure of the technical theater class basically covers the main topics just behind the scenes of plays and musicals like microphones, lighting, props, types of stages, makeup, set design, and lighting design,” said Fontillas.
The technical theater class really stands out because it’s so hands-on. Students use the school’s brand-new theater as a learning space, diving into the technical side of theater production. They get to work with all sorts of equipment.
“We use a lot of websites with certain slider capabilities to better understand things like lighting design,” senior Melia Romero said. “We have microphones, projections, and other stuff we can use in the theater.”.
The variety of creative projects in the class is impressive. Students get to experiment with theatrical makeup, learning how to apply it effectively for stage performances. They also create realistic-looking food props from basic materials, showcasing their creativity and resourcefulness.
One of the most exciting projects is when they build mini dioramas of scenes from their favorite musicals or plays, a task that combines artistry with their passion for theater.
Ms. Fontillas is key to making these experiences both educational and enjoyable. Her teaching style is known for being engaging and easy for students to grasp.
“Ms. Joanna Fontillas contributes to enhancing the learning experience by making everything very hands-on and easy to understand,” senior Deric Pham said. “She also provides lots of examples.”
The impact of the class on students is substantial. It’s not just about learning, it’s about seeing theater in a new way. Students are getting more involved in school plays, understanding the technical nuances that go into a production.
“This class influences their understanding of theater by giving them a better understanding of certain things in the theater, giving them the ability to join different teams when talking about the play or musical,” senior Andrew Ramirez said. “This can also provide influence for future jobs that they might pursue.”
What’s really great about this class is the range of skills students develop. They’re not just learning about the theater, they’re gaining practical skills like script reading, operating microphone and lighting boards, and even mastering stage direction and walkie-talkie communication.
These skills are invaluable, extending far beyond the theater to other aspects of communication and teamwork.
The class also fosters a strong sense of community and collaboration among students. A big part of this is the “Night of One Acts,” an event where students create their plays and handle all the technical details themselves, from lighting to sound. This project really brings students together, giving them a taste of what it’s like to produce a play from start to finish.
In just its second year, the Technical Theater class at Bishop Amat is already making a big mark. It’s more than just a class, it’s an introduction to the magic of theater from behind the curtain. Students are not only learning about the art and science of technical theater but are also being inspired to pursue their interests in this field, potentially shaping their future careers.
