The Backstage AIC Blog!

Thank you for the opportunity to share my experiences and life in theater with you. Our hope is that you find this blog useful, fun and inspiring.

May your journey be as amazing as the one that brought me here.

Tech Director vs. Production Manager vs. Designer: Why Theater Needs All Three

Tech Director vs. Production Manager vs. Designer: Why Theater Needs All Three

Confused about the roles of a technical director, production manager, and designer in theater? This breakdown clarifies the distinctions, why they matter, and how they work together,especially in educ... ...more

Design and Construction

September 24, 2026•4 min read

Lumber Choices for Lightweight Builds on Stage

Lumber Choices for Lightweight Builds on Stage

Discover the best lumber choices for lightweight builds on stage! Learn when to use 1x4 and 2x4 pine, plywood, Lauan, and Masonite for safe, durable, and cost-effective theater sets. Perfect for stage... ...more

Design and Construction

September 17, 2026•4 min read

Hiring Professionals vs. Student-Driven Work: Navigating Options High School Theater

Hiring Professionals vs. Student-Driven Work: Navigating Options High School Theater

Navigating high school theater on a tight budget? Explore the pros and cons of hiring professionals vs. student-driven work, and discover budget-friendly alternatives like community involvement, local... ...more

Design and Construction ,Program Tips

September 11, 2026•9 min read

Basic Builds for Intro to Stagecraft Students: Practical Projects for New Learners

Basic Builds for Intro to Stagecraft Students: Practical Projects for New Learners

Looking for practical, beginner-friendly stagecraft projects? Discover how to engage new students with rehearsal cubes, mini flats, and platforms, perfect for teaching basic power tools, teamwork, and... ...more

Student Engagement ,Design and Construction &Program Tips

September 03, 2026•5 min read

What to do with Your New Stagecraft Students

What to do with Your New Stagecraft Students

The 2026-27 theater season is here, let's set our stagecraft students up for success! In this practical guide, we share our first-month curriculum to help you start strong with hands-on projects get s... ...more

Student Engagement ,Design and Construction &Program Tips

August 27, 2026•6 min read

The Anatomy of a Theater: A New Student’s Guide

The Anatomy of a Theater: A New Student’s Guide

New to theater? Learn the key areas theaters have in common, stage, wings, fly loft, and more, with this beginner’s guide. Lesson plans and resources linked. Perfect for new students and new teachers! ...more

Student Engagement ,Performance Spaces &Program Tips

August 20, 2026•5 min read

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