From automation techniques to resumé surgery at UNCSA

Stage Technologies Inc. sponsored and instructed workshops at the first annual UNCSA Southeast Regional Entertainment Technology Conference in October 2009 at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts in Winston-Salem, NC.

The three-day conference was designed to give participants an in-depth look at the cutting-edge technology used in Cirque du Soleil productions from manufacturers and suppliers who work closely with the high-profile performance company. Stage Technologies workshops ranged from ‘Automation on Cruise Ships’ (presented by Gemma Guy, general manager) to 'Automation Software' (presented by Nathan Wells, project manager).

Stage Technologies joined representatives from Cirque du Soleil’s resident shows division, Meyer Sound and Coolux to present workshops to over 300 conference participants that comprised UNCSA students, faculty and staff, as well as outside participants including students from area schools and working professionals. The workshops were attended by a range of participants with specialties in scenic technology, stage management, lighting design and electrics, sound design and engineering, scenic design and painting, costume design and technology, and wig and makeup design.
 
Designed to give the participants an in-depth look at the cutting edge technology used in Cirque du Soleil productions, the conference offered workshops in rigging applications, knot tying, fall protection, make-up demonstrations, projection screen blending and warping, sound system implementation, and other job related workshops including resumé writing and review. Students received unique hands-on training from industry professionals on equipment they may not normally have a chance to work with until long after graduation. Stage Technologies brought two BT290 theatre winches, an AU:tour control rack, and a Nomad control desk that were used in the automation demonstration workshops.

During the resumé review, students were able to discuss their CVs with potential future employers and gain valuable inside knowledge. The representatives from all the presenting companies were available after the workshops for networking - a key part of any student’s job search.

Photo - Nathan Wells from our Las Vegas office demos the Nomad desk in the automation workshop
Credit: UNSCA/Martin Tucker