As the spring musical “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying” approaches, various groups within the arts department at SJHHS are busy working to make this production come alive.

Before the actors take the stage, the set must be built. This is where Stagecraft, a class offered during 5th period, comes in. The class is split into two sections: Stagecraft, which is the more basic course about design and set building, and Technical Theatre, the more advanced course which involves lighting and sound training.

“Technical Theatre and Stagecraft are about kind of coming together as a group to make the plays possible,” says Sara Stickler, a Stagecraft/Technical Theater student.

The class has already started getting ready for the musical, which opens in late April. The students first read the script to get an idea of what kinds of sets they will need. They then design the and measure the sets so they will fit the stage. To ensure that everything is right, they build models to scale that help them conceptualize what it will look like. Once the prep work has been done, they start building.

The set of “How to Succeed…” has many different components. Currently, several large sets are being built by the Stagecraft students, including one large stationary set which serves as the lobby of a business complex, complete with elevator.

Other sets include two movable units that will be offices, an executive bathroom, a TV show film studio scene and an outside rooftop party scene. Those working behind the scenes will have to be ready at a moments notice during the musical as the sets are large and will need to be changed quickly.  The sets will include many corresponding props such as secretary rolling desks and typewriters. Coaches are also hired on to ensure that the sets are constructed safely.

But the sets are only part of the process of putting together a theatrical production. “Like in any production, the technical side of this show is majorly important. The actors tell the story, but the tech is what makes it come to life, it gives it all the magic,” says instructor, Cambria Beilstein.

“These technical skills are taught through a mentorship program in Stagecraft/Theatrical production class,” says Beilstein. Mentors consist of the advanced theatrical production students who focus on the areas that most interest them.

The students are enthused to be working on this years musical. “For ‘How to Succeed’ we are definitely going bigger and better this year…so it’s going  to be different and difficult but it’s going to be something that’s really enjoyable to see and build,” Stickler says.