The Technical Director's Toolkit: Process, Forms, and Philosophies for Successful Technical Direction

In the world of theatre, the technical director is responsible for overseeing the safe and efficient realization and implementation of scenery for the stage. The Technical Director’s Toolkit is the first book to address every nut and bolt of this multifaceted job.

This book guides readers though the step-by-step processes of technical direction and the responsibilities of the TD in the mounting of a theatrical production. Leadership, management, relationship building, personal responsibility, and problem solving are addressed, demonstrating not only how to become a more efficient and effective TD, but also how to be a collaborative member of a production team that artists will seek to work with again and again. The book also addresses scene shop design, facility repair and maintenance, and finishes with a brief overview of other areas of technical theatre that help round out the far reaching skill set of a successful TD.

This book is perfect for university courses in Stagecraft and Technical Direction and for the aspiring Technical Director.

Zachary Stribling received his BFA in Technical Theatre from the University of Evansville and a Masters of Fine Arts in Technical Production from Florida State University. Working professionally in theatre for more than twenty-two years and teaching at the university level for thirteen years, he has served as Technical Director for the Utah Shakespeare Festival, Faculty Technical Director at the University of Central Florida, and Visiting Assistant Professor of Technical Production at the Florida State University. Zak is currently a Lecturer and Faculty Technical Director at the University of Kentucky.

Richard Girtain holds a BA in Theatre with a Minor in Religious Studies from the University of Tennessee and a Masters of Fine Arts in Technical Production from Florida State University. He has served as Technical Director at several nationally and internationally recognized theaters throughout the country, including the Guthrie Theater, Utah Shakespeare Festival, and FSU/Asolo Conservatory for Actor Training. Richard is currently the Technical Director for the Juilliard School at Lincoln Center.