Tech Boot Camp: Lighting

Tech Boot Camp: Lighting

Lighting can transform a stage, set the mood, and tell a story before a single word is spoken. In this minisode from the Colorado Thespians Technical Theatre Boot Camp, Beau and Jesse sit down with Kyle Stockburger from Green Mountain High School to talk about a day focused on theatrical lighting. From the basics of electrical signals to the skills needed to make a lighting system work, what stood out to Kyle—and what can theatre educators take back to their own programs? Let’s turn on the lights and find out.

Tech Boot Camp: Scene Shop

The scenic shop is where big ideas become real—but it’s also where safety, planning, and good construction practices matter most. In this minisode from the Colorado Thespians Technical Theatre Boot Camp, Beau and Jesse chat with Anthony Sparks from Sagewood Middle School in Parker, Colorado, about a day focused on scenic shop safety, construction, and the power of a good ground plan. What stood out? What can theatre educators take back to their own shops? And how do we build better—and safer—spaces for students to create?

Tech Boot Camp: Safety

Safety and liability might not be the most glamorous parts of technical theatre—but they’re essential. Beau and Jesse chat with Melissa Carroll-Jackson after a day at the Colorado Thespians Technical Theatre Boot Camp focused on keeping educational theatre programs and venues safe. What did she learn? What stuck with her? And what should every theatre educator be thinking about? Let’s talk safety first, or third.

Tell Me How You Know It's Working

In this episode, Beau and Jesse sit down with Lindsey Welsh of Arvada West High School to unpack the challenges and opportunities of assessment in arts education. Together, they explore how reflective practices can help arts programs measure impact, strengthen instruction, and ensure learning remains relevant and meaningful for students.

Tell Me Why This Job, Why Now?

Beau and Jesse dive into the question of what sustains a long-term career in education and how to keep classroom instruction relevant and responsive to students in this moment. Through reflection and conversation, they explore what continues to motivate a veteran teacher of 33 years to return with purpose, passion, and a commitment to growth.