This year, students at Sequoia are stepping behind the curtain with the introduction of a new stagecraft class. The class focuses on the technical side of theater production, giving students hands-on experience while supporting school performances.

The new stagecraft class was inspired by a push towards stagecraft teacher Talia Cain to expand the school’s visual and performing arts offerings.

With a background in graduate-level production and design, Cain was eager to bring hands-on technical theater experience to students here at Sequoia. Stagecraft allows students to explore all areas of theater production, from set and costume design to lighting and sound. 

Students can follow two tracks: a production track for those already involved in after-school tech projects, and a project track for students focusing on creative in-class assignments.

“Right now we’re really focused on set design, and students are taking all the professional steps that designers take when taking on a production,” Cain said. 

One of the most unique aspects of the class is the focus on collaboration. Students are encouraged to learn from one another, continuing Sequoia’s tradition of peer mentorship within the theater program. Instead of learning solely from teachers, students often guide one another as they work on projects. 

One of Cain’s favorite parts of teaching the class is seeing students grow an interest in theater, even if they didn’t start that way. 

“I joined stagecraft because it’s something that I already enjoy doing after school. So, it was nice to be able to get the credits for it,” sophomore Brianna Avila Cuevas said.

While launching the class has been exciting, it has also come with some challenges. With students entering at different experience levels and interests, Cain works to balance support and challenge for everyone. By offering different pathways and encouraging creativity, she helps students find what excites them while still pushing them to try new things. This provides students with both technical and creative skills that extend beyond theater. 

“I’ve learned how to effectively use several online software tools in the design process, which has strengthened my ability to turn ideas into well-developed and polished projects,” Cuevas said. 

From collaboration and problem-solving to creativity and communication, students are gaining valuable experience that can be applied in many aspects of their lives. As the program continues to grow, it’s sure to make a strong impact on Sequoia’s community.