Broadway: Behind the Curtain
Students will learn what it's like working backstage on a broadway theater production (focusing on costumes) with stories and photos from someone who was actually there.
Cate G.
Average rating:
5.0
Number of reviews:(6)
What's included
1 live meeting
1 hrs 30 mins in-class hoursClass Experience
In this class students will learn about the different types of jobs that are happening backstage at a Broadway musical. The class focuses on the largest and most visual group of backstage workers, the Wardrobe Department, and how the costumes are maintained and used during the show. Students will get to take a closer look at some of the more dazzling costume work in productions and see if they can figure out how it was achieved. They will also be offered guidance in how to get in to this kind of work and what the steps can be to make it to New York City and Broadway. Using a slideshow, students will see behind-the-scenes photos and hear stories about some of their favorite shows and actors, as they are encouraged to join the discussion with other students interested in theater. There will also be time at the end to have any of their burning questions about Broadway answered by someone who was actually there!
Learning Goals
Students will come out of class with a new outlook on their favorite Broadway shows, as well as a lense to view them through. They will have a greater understanding of what it takes to mount a large production, the culture around Broadway musicals and different paths to pursue if they have a desire to work in theater.
Other Details
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Teacher expertise and credentials
Hi there!
I'm Cate, a theater artisan who's spent the last decade working on Broadway and in TV as a dresser, stitcher, costumer, and all-around creator. No matter what show I've worked on, I've always made it a goal to work with kids of different ages to give some insight into costuming. I've taught about the creative process, the technical aspects of building things, the industry of costuming, and the general understanding of costumes and how they enhance storytelling. I graduated from college with a degree in Musical Theater and Technical Theater where I concentrated in costuming, and spent many years as a theater camp counselor or working with organizations like "Broadway classroom," teaching about costumes, design, and quick changes. I have three siblings who are all teachers, so you could say it runs in the family.
I'm a high energy person who likes to foster discussion and get kids to use imaginative thinking to solve problems. As a creator, I know that starting something new can be incredibly intimidating for many kids who don't know where to start, and I like to guide them through projects to give them the tools and the confidence they need to make their passion project a success. De-mystifying how basic things are done can allow for more imaginative solutions to challenges in the future.
I live with my little dog, Simon, in New York City and was previously working as the star dresser on the "Tina Turner Musical." I've also worked on Broadway shows like "Wicked" "Spongebob Squarepants: The Musical" "Anastasia" "Bring It On" "Be More Chill" and more. Reviews
Live One-Time Class
$12
per classMeets once
90 min
Completed by 9 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 13-18
3-10 learners per class
