Professional Development Workshops (PDWs)

Know Before You Register

Professional Development Workshops (PDWs) allow our attendees to take a deeper dive into a variety of Live Entertainment subjects. These classes are led by expert instructors who are eager to share their knowledge with you! 

Registration for the following PDWs may be completed during your USITT25 registration process. If you sign up for an event that will cause you to miss part or all of a Conference day (Wednesday or Thursday), there will be a discount automatically applied to your Conference registration at checkout.

Architecture

Architectural Tour of Columbus Area Theaters
Wednesday, March 5 - 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Join an Architecture Commission-sponsored event that takes attendees on tour to multiple venues throughout the Columbus area. Transportation and lunch will be provided. This year, we are touring eight different facilities:

• The Southern Theatre
• The Palace Theatre
• The Ohio Theatre/Columbus Commons Stage
• OSU's Department of Theatre, Film, and Media Arts facilities
• The Mershon Auditorium
• The Short North Stage Theatre

Be sure to wear comfortable shoes! This course provides 4 AIA LU|HSW

Advanced registration and an additional fee of $95 are required.
If minimum attendance is not met by February 1st this tour may be canceled. This tour will sell out quickly! We will enact a waitlist for those interested and contact you in advance if space becomes available. Day of walk-ups will most likely not receive a space on this tour. The group will be returning to this location at 4:30 p.m.

Open Source Acoustic Simulation for Everyone
Thursday, March 6 - 8:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
For almost 2 decades, Pachyderm Acoustic has provided a means to simulate and explore acoustics of existing and proposed spaces, including various acoustical metrics, visualizations, and auralizations (audible renderings), and some of the most versatile acoustics analysis tools available, via a free and open source software platform. Despite its accessibility, acoustics, and acoustics simulation can be tricky. There are important physical concepts and performance norms that the user must be aware of to perform meaningful acoustic simulations. This session will teach interested parties about various concepts in room acoustics, and how to use Pachyderm Acoustic to study the acoustics of indoor and outdoor venues for theater and other performance types. 

Advanced registration and an additional fee of $60 are required.
If minimum attendance is not met by Feb. 1, 2025, this class may be canceled.

Costume Design & Technology

Foam, Feathers, & Focus: Building Dynamic & Expressive Rod Puppets
Wednesday, March 5 - 9:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
It's time to make the puppets, it's time to build them right!  In this active, hands-on workshop, we will engage with a variety of building techniques and materials to create both a simple stick puppet and a full-bodied rod puppet. We will primarily be working with assorted foams, foam shapes, and fabrics. We will explore how to flat pattern and carve both open-cell and closed-cell foam and utilize a variety of glues and joining techniques, including sewing. We will experiment with the properties of the materials to discover how aesthetic choices can contribute to fully realizing the unique performance potential of rod puppets. Additionally, we will discover how to create focus through eye placement and how to provoke ancillary movement through material selection, positioning, and attachment methods. Participants will also hear about how Seton Hill University has incorporated puppetry into their Theatre Department, in productions, in the classroom, and in the larger community beyond their campus. Content warning: This class will utilize a variety of straight blades for cutting materials and glues that have chemical odors.

Lunch will be on your own.
Advanced registration and an additional payment of $180 are required.
If minimum attendance is not met by Feb. 1 2025, this class may be canceled.

A Fan Favorite: Constructing a Brisé and Decorative Silk Fan
Wednesday, March 5 - 9:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
In this hands-on PDW, Participants will create one brisé fan and one decorative printed silk fan. The workshop will begin with a short introduction to the history of the folding fan, and then move into the creation process. Participants will be able to choose from provided decorative silk fabric to use as a mounting leaf, or they can bring their own decorative silk fabric if they wish. The session will include making a folding template, patterning the leaf, stitching the fabric mount to a template, and other essential steps in the fan-making process. Build your own fans from start to finish, and walk away with two beautiful completed projects. 

Lunch will be on your own.
Advanced registration and an additional payment of $180 are required.
If minimum attendance is not met by Feb. 1 2025, this class may be canceled.

Education

Dive into Archive
Wednesday, March 5 - 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
This hands-on workshop explores the research practices of designers and educators using the holdings of the Lawrence and Lee Theatre Research Institute (TRI) at The Ohio State University. Archival research can be used in the design process to understand more than just the history of a production. Analyzing material culture provides insights into the contexts of design choices and styles in all areas of design. Using the archive in educational settings makes history tangible for students. It allows students to practice detail-oriented object analysis and gives them the tools they need to communicate their discoveries.
Participants will be introduced to the TRI. Examples of practical research methods and applications for designers and educators will be demonstrated. Participants will choose from a selection of artifacts to practice the research methods presented. Lesson plans and project ideas will be shared with time allocated for brainstorming, comments, and questions beginning a conversation of ways that archival research can support the designer's process, engage students, and spark imaginations.
For more information, visit TRI's website here! 

This PDW will take place at the Lawrence and Lee Theatre Research Institute (TRI) at The Ohio State University, off-sight of the convention center.
Participants are responsible for their own transportation to this off-sight location. More details concerning Public Transportation options and directions will be delivered mid-February.
Advanced registration and an additional payment of $40 are required.
If minimum attendance is not met by Feb. 1, 2025, this class may be canceled.

Engineering

Introduction to Autodesk Revit for Theater
Wednesday, March 5 - 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
This course is intended to introduce individuals who work in the live performance and entertainment industry to Autodesk Revit, as well as a brief overview of BIM processes most widely used in the design and construction industry. The day will begin with a basic understanding of the Revit interface. We will then move to importing and placing equipment into a flexible theater space model, and then export that layout to a 2D CAD format. The afternoon will focus on creating a complex Revit “family” based around a real theatre product.
Course Goals:
• Understand how a Revit workflow is used in a BIM process
• Import an architect’s model and place specialty equipment components
• Export a model to AutoCAD 2D for plans and sections
• Create a Revit Family for a piece of theater equipment that will include geometric flexing, formula parameters, and product metadata.
Prerequisites:
1. Participants are required to have their own laptop computer with Autodesk Revit 2024 installed. A 30-day trial can be downloaded using this link. DOWNLOADING OF FREE TRIAL BEFORE FEB 05 2025 IS NOT RECOMMENDED!
2. Participants will need to watch a 1.5 hour online training session to learn about Revit installation (if not completed) and navigating the user interface. This will allow us to jump directly into modeling in Revit and take full advantage of the day. A link to the online session will be provided to enrolled participants 2-3 weeks prior to the workshop.
3. Participants should have at least some basic experience with computer-based drafting or modeling software, which could include (but not limited to), AutoCAD, Vectorworks, Sketchup, Solidworks, or Inventor.

Lunch will be provided.
Advanced registration and an additional payment of $180 are required.
If minimum attendance is not met by Feb. 1, 2025, this class may be canceled.


Introduction to Show Networking Hands-on Workshop 
Wednesday, March 5 - 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
This introductory hands-on workshop, based on John Huntington’s book Introduction to Show Networking, explores the basics of networks and how they work in show systems such as lighting, sound, video, and even stage machinery. Basic networking concepts, IP addresses and assignment methods, subnet masks, general network operations and physical topologies will be introduced through readings and lecture videos, and then explored through a day of hands-on labs. Network device control will also be explored, and other topics like VLANs, simple routing and broadcast storms will be demonstrated in group exercises.
Once enrolled in the workshop, participants are given assignments to read the Introduction to Show Networking book and/or watch several (unlisted) lecture videos. Then, the group meets online approximately a week in advance of the hands-on session (date t.b.d. from a group poll) to review the information and answer any questions from the readings. This session will be recorded for those who can not attend in real time. Finally, the group meets in person to explore these concepts in a full-day, hands-on workshop for which participants bring their own PC or macOS laptop.

This class counts for seven hours of ETCP-recognized training towards renewal credit.
Advanced registration and an additional fee of $180 are required.
There will be a one-hour lunch break where attendees will be on their own.
If minimum attendance is not met by Feb. 1 this class may be canceled.

Ken Vannice Electrical Workshop  
Wednesday, March 5 - 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

This 1-day workshop is designed to give participants an understanding of electricity and the basics of entertainment electrical systems including grounding, overcurrent protection, and associated topics. We'll also explore the National Electrical Code® and NFPA 70E: Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace®. The workshop covers many of the items in the ETCP Electrician Candidate Handbook outline. Attendees will receive PDF files of the presentations and other information at the end of the workshop.

This class counts for six hours of ETCP-recognized training towards renewal credit.
Advanced registration and an additional fee of $180 are required.
There will be a one hour lunch break where attendees will be on their own.
If minimum attendance is not met by Feb. 1 this class may be canceled.

Lighting Design & Technology

Getting Started in Vectorworks
Wednesday, March 5 - 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
This workshop will provide new users and those who want to increase their basic knowledge of the program a solid foundation on which to grow. The session will feature hands-on instruction through simple projects that are designed to help participants develop a strong workflow. The day will begin with an overview of the program, popular tools, and how to set personal preferences. We will move on to some simple 2D drafting exercises, and finish the day with a simple light plot to allow attendees to learn about the label legend manager and other lighting tools. Participants will need to bring their own laptop, mouse, and activated copy of Vectorworks. All demonstrations will be done using Vectorworks 2024, but participants can have different editions.

Lunch will be on your own.
Advanced registration and an additional payment of $125 are required.
If minimum attendance is not met by Feb. 1, 2025, this class may be canceled.

ETC Eos Family Console Level 2  
Wednesday, March 5 - 9:00 a.m-4:30 p.m.

Build on the basics for better programming! Ready to move beyond the basics with your Eos family console? Build the skills you need to take your programming to the next level. Going beyond our Level 1 training, this class will get you going with additional features and functions of your console and get you on your way to programming like a pro. It is highly recommended that you are familiar with ETC consoles before attending this Level 2 class. Level 1 videos and the workbook are available online at this link.  
Session Highlights:

• Understand display layouts and work-spaces
• Record and recall Snapshots
• Record and recall Palettes and Presets
• Set up and use Direct Selects
• Take advantage of Discrete Timing and Multipart cues
• Create and use Relative and Absolute Effects
• Create and use a basic Magic Sheet

This class qualifies for 7 ETCP re-certification credits for ETCP certified technicians.
Lunch will be on your own.
Advanced registration and an additional payment of $125 are required.
If minimum attendance is not met by Feb. 1, 2025, this class may be canceled. 

ETC Eos Family Console Level 3
Thursday, March 6 - 9:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Think you know all there is to know about your console? Learn more features to help work faster and more efficiently. Our Level 3 class will teach even the most seasoned professionals a thing or two about the features of their console. This class is perfect for programmers who are proficient with the functions covered in Levels 1 & 2 training and ready to learn more. Ideally, participants have completed a Level 2 class BEFORE taking this advanced class.
Session Highlights:

• Define and use Highlight, Lowlight, and custom RemDim.
• Use the Fan function on encoders, the command line, and for references.
• Apply and store filters, and use manual playback functions like Make Null, Make Manual, and Capture.
• Create advanced palette and preset modifiers.
• Use advanced cues, like Multipart, and Multiple cue lists.
• Create and use Macros and additional Magic Sheet features.

This class qualifies for 6 ETCP re-certification credits for ETCP-certified technicians.
Lunch will be on your own.
Advanced registration and an additional payment of $125 are required.
If minimum attendance is not met by Feb. 1 2025, this class may be canceled.

ETC Hog Console Training
Wednesday & Thursday, March 5 & 6 - 9:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
ETC offers one of the industry's top console training programs, developed to ensure you have the support and most up-to-date technical knowledge needed to be on top of your game in this competitive market. ETC is providing two days of programming classes to support their users. You will leave the class with creative ideas for upcoming shows, time-saving tips and tricks, and a new level of confidence in your technical capabilities.

This class qualifies for 7 ETCP re-certification credits for ETCP-certified technicians.
Lunch will be on your own.
Advanced registration and an additional payment of $225 are required.
Space is limited and this class will fill quickly. If minimum attendance is not met by Feb. 1 2025, this class may be canceled. 

 

Rigging

AWP/MEWP Operator Training & Certification
Wednesday, March 5 - 9:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
This training program allows participants to earn their AWP (Aerial Work Platform) / MEWP (Mobile Elevating Work Platform) operator's card. This course consists of four key areas of learning and proficiency demonstration (Responsibility, Safety, Operation & Hands-On). This is a three-part training session, where attendees will receive classroom instruction and hands-on training. This will culminate in both a written test and a practical evaluation. Upon successful completion of this safety training, attendees will be presented with their AWP operator's card. This training covers machine safety regulations, agencies and requirements, safe operation (components and controls), and inspection requirements.


This class qualifies for 3.5 ETCP recertification credits for ETCP-certified technicians.
There will be a one-hour lunch break where attendees will be on their own.
This PDW takes place at the Ohio Theatre, off-sight of the convention center. Participants are responsible for their own transportation to this off-sight location. More details concerning Public Transportation options and directions will be delivered in mid-February.
Advanced registration and an additional payment of $95 are required.
If minimum attendance is not met by Feb. 1, 2025, this class may be canceled.


Foundations of Entertainment Rigging
Wednesday & Thursday, March 5 & 6 - 9:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
While there is no substitute for experience when it comes to rigging, this class will present the foundational concepts that underpin good rigging practices. Taught by trainers with over 40 years of combined experience in the field, topics are derived from the ETCP list of critical knowledge areas for riggers and will vary to suit the learners in the room. Presentation of information will be approachable for early career participants while also providing a depth of discussion through examples and case studies that will bring value and engagement to more experienced riggers. In addition to instructional content, resources for further learning and reference will be featured and explored. Participants will walk away with improved confidence, knowing more about both the "how" and the "why" of entertainment rigging. 

This class qualifies for 12 ETCP recertification credits for ETCP-certified technicians (6/day).
This PDW takes place at the Wexner Center for the Arts, off-sight of the convention center. Participants are responsible for their own transportation to this off-sight location. More details concerning Public Transportation options and directions will be delivered mid-February.
Lunch will be one hour and on your own.
Advanced registration and an additional payment of $225 are required.

Scene Design & Technology

Weapons Safety for the Stage
Wednesday, March 5 - 9:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
This Weapons Safety for the Stage workshop consists of three parts. In the first part, attendees will explore a practical history of firearms, from the invention of gunpowder through the development of automatic weapons. The second part explores the use of firearms on stage, starting with pre-production planning, exploring weapon and ammunition choice, moving through the rehearsal and blocking process, laying out backstage procedure, and exploring onstage use and safety. Finally, there is a practical demonstration of safety tests for the various weapon types and ammunitions discussed, followed by a question-answer and discussion period.

Lunch will be on your own.
Advanced registration and an additional payment of $125 are required.
If minimum attendance is not met by Feb. 1, 2025, this class may be canceled.

Sound Design & Technology

Exploring System Alignment and Optimization Processes Using Smaart and Data Modeler
Wednesday, March 5 - 9:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Smaart is a software-based audio analysis platform from Rational Acoustics that is widely considered the industry standard for the measurement of professional audio systems. Data Modeler is a new DSP modeling software, recently released by Rational Acoustics, that allows users to take Smaart data and perform virtual audio system alignment and optimization. A frequent training request from Smaart users is to provide specific guidance in the alignment and optimization process—everything from where to start the alignment process, where to place measurement microphones, how to set the timing for imaging, how to align subs to mains, etc. There is rarely one definitive correct answer, but there are a variety of application-dependent approaches. This Professional Development Workshop will introduce the Smaart v9 and Data Modeler software applications and offer hands-on training and guidance on how to effectively wield these measurement and modeling tools within the system alignment and optimization process.

Lunch will be on your own.
Advanced registration and an additional payment of $125 are required.
If minimum attendance is not met by Feb. 1, 2025, this class may be canceled.


Drama on the Network
Thursday, March 6 - 9:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

The use of computers requires being able to make external connections. In the theatre, computer connections are more than just to a printer, e-mail, and "the Internet". Moving media, sound, and video around, as well as exchanging control signals for lighting, scenic, and sound, is now quite common.
There is a difference between being “familiar” with something and “understanding” it. Quite a few audio professionals have had exposure to some use of digital audio/video/control, but there are a lot of gaps that need to be addressed to gain mastery and to understand not only what to do to make things work, but why those actions are required. This session is made of of modules that cover the use of Ethernet networking, how it started and has expanded, what can be done now, how digital technology can actually make things simpler and more cost-effective, and how to integrate the multiple protocols that are in common use today.
Participants will need to bring their own laptop, power source, and a way to get an ethernet connection to their laptop.

Lunch will be on your own.
Advanced registration and an additional payment are required.
If minimum attendance is not met by Feb. 1, 2025, this class may be canceled. 

Safety

OSHA 10 - General Entertainment Safety
Wednesday & Thursday, March 5 & 6 - 9:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
This customized OSHA 10 training is brought to you by the IATSE Entertainment and Exhibition Industries Training Trust Fund and USITT as a part of the alliance between these organizations and OSHA. The OSHA 10-hour program provides a variety of training on general industry safety and health regulations for both entry-level and experienced workers. Upon completion of both days, you will have earned your OSHA 10 card. It covers OSHA policies, procedures, and standards, as well as general industry safety and health principles. Topics include the scope and application of the OSHA general industry standards. Special emphasis is placed on those areas that are the most hazardous, using OSHA standards as a guide.

Lunch will be on your own.
Advanced registration and an additional payment of $90 are required.
If minimum attendance is not met by Feb. 1, 2025, this class may be canceled.

Technical Production

3D Scanning Workshop - Reality Capture of Theatre Spaces and Objects Using LiDAR and Photogrammetry
Wednesday, March 5 - 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
This hands-on 3d Scanning Workshop will engage participants in using multiple types of 3D scanning devices to record real-world spaces and objects with LiDAR and Photogrammetry. The workshop features Leica Geosystems BLK360 scanning as well as a variety of phone applications and handheld scanning devices. Collaboratively, we will explore capturing reality as laser-accurate point clouds and poly-mesh models, which can then be used in virtual modeling with computer-aided drafting and virtual modeling software for game design artifacts, environments, textures, and computer-aided fabrication uses like 3D printing. We will explore how to use 3D scanning for digital archival and portfolio uses in addition to sharing content via virtual reality platforms and viewers. No prior experience with 3D scanning is necessary for the workshop.

Lunch will be on your own.
This PDW takes place at the Ohio Theatre, off-sight of the convention center. Participants are responsible for their own transportation to this off-sight location. More details concerning Public Transportation options and directions will be delivered mid-February.
Advanced registration and an additional payment of $50 are required.
If minimum attendance is not met by Feb. 1, 2025, this class may be canceled.