Build a Strong Foundation for a Career in Theatre Production
Barton’s Associate of Arts in Technical Theatre offers in-depth training in all aspects of backstage production—including lighting, sound, set design, stage management, and more. This two-year degree provides both hands-on experience and academic coursework to prepare students for transfer to a four-year program or entry into the professional world.
Students will also be prepared to take the USITT eSet certification exams, recognized nationwide as a benchmark for essential skills in theatre technology. These certifications can boost your resume and help you land jobs in technical theatre, live events, and entertainment production.
Barton Benefits
At Barton, our areas of study are designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and critical thinking necessary to thrive in today’s world. Whether you're just beginning your educational journey or advancing your career, we offer flexible and rigorous programs that support your goals.
Why Barton?
- Hands-On Learning
Train using industry-standard lighting, sound, and set equipment in real performance settings. - USITT Certification Prep
Coursework prepares you for eSet certification exams from the United States Institute for Theatre Technology. - Transfer-Ready Degree
Complete general education and technical theatre courses for seamless transfer to a four-year program. - Real-World Production Experience
Work on Barton Theatre productions to build your resume and portfolio. - Small Class Sizes, Individual Attention
Get personalized instruction and mentorship from experienced faculty. - Professional Networking
Meet working theatre professionals through workshops, guest lectures, and collaborative opportunities.
Career Pathways
Turn Backstage Skills Into Professional Opportunities
Graduates of Barton’s Technical Theatre program are equipped with the hands-on experience and certifications needed to launch a career in the entertainment and live events industries. Whether you’re heading straight into the workforce or transferring to a four-year program, your training opens doors across the industry.
Possible Career Paths Include:
- Lighting Technician
- Sound Engineer
- Stage Manager
- Scenic or Props Designer
- Costume or Wardrobe Technician
- Theatre Carpenter or Electrician
- Production Assistant (TV, Film, or Touring)
- Technical Director (with further study)
- Event Production Crew (concerts, conventions, festivals)
With growing demand for skilled backstage professionals, Barton gives you the tools and connections to get started.
Hands-On Training for Behind-the-Scenes Careers
Barton’s Technical Theatre program prepares students for the fast-paced world of live performance and production with practical, real-world experience.
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Hands-On Experience with Professional Equipment
Work with industry-standard lighting, sound, and stage technology in a live performance environment. -
Real-World Training
Gain the skills and confidence needed for professional work in theatres, touring productions, and entertainment venues. -
Industry Connections
Meet and learn from working professionals through workshops, guest speakers, and collaborative projects.
Whether you're building sets, running cues, or managing backstage operations, Barton gives you the tools to succeed in the technical side of theatre.
Become a Cougar
Complete the Admissions checklist of requirements to become a Cougar today.
Barton classes are affordable and accessible, with sessions starting throughout the year.
You have many options to help you accomplish yours goals and we're here to help!
Barton Theatre offers generous scholarships and work-study opportunities for students involved in the program—making it easier to pursue your passion for the performing arts.
All students are welcome to participate, regardless of major, through our inclusive student theatre troupe, the Barton Bards. Whether you're studying theatre, music, education, or another field entirely, you can take the stage, work behind the scenes, or contribute to every part of the production process.
Degree Maps
Degree Maps
Associate in Art
Technical Theatre (degree)
Certificate
Technical Theatre (certificate) - 30 credit hours
View the full list of Curriculum Guides (applicable for students admitted prior to Fall 2024) and Degree Maps (applicable for students admitted Fall 2024 and after).
Theatre Faculty
Theatre Faculty
Meet the Faculty
Dan Williams
Instructor, Theatre
Dan Williams B.F.A. Tarkio College M.F.A. Southern Illinois University has had a 33-year career teaching Theatre at Southern Illinois University, Wichita State University, Southwestern College, Pittsburg State University, Missouri Southern University, Oral Roberts University, Stagecraft Institute Las Vegas, and Newman University. His work has been seen on stage at Music Theatre Wichita, The Crown Uptown Dinner Theatre, Wichita Center for the Arts, Stage One, The Forum Theatre, The William Inge Center, Heartland Opera Theatre, Theatre Tulsa, The Shanghai Performing Arts Center, and Southwest Michigan Opera Theatre. He has received 6 Meritorious Achievement Awards from the American College Theatre Festival, 2 Jester Awards from Music Theatre Wichita, and a Mary Jane Teall Theatre Award. Dan and his Designer /Technical Director wife Denise Williams have 6 children who all enjoy theatre.
Denise Williams
Instructor, Communications/Theatre
Denise Williams (B.A. Southwestern College, M.A. Pittsburg State University) has been working professionally in theatre for 31 years. She has worked with several educational institutions including Pittsburg High School, Jenks Public Schools, Viterbo University, Southwest Michigan College, Garden City Community College, and Independence Community College. In addition, she has been involved with the William Inge Festival in Independence, Kansas honoring playwrights. Denise has played various roles throughout her career. Favorites include: Sarah from “Guys and Dolls”, Marty in “Grease”, Interplanet Janet and Albert Andreas Armadillo in “Schoolhouse Rock Live”, and Nora in “A Doll’s House”. In addition to her performance work, she is an accomplished lighting designer, having worked at venues across the Midwest.
Real-World Training
Real-World Training
Theatre Skills for Life
Why Studying Theatre Benefits Everyone—On Stage and Beyond
Even if you don’t plan to pursue a lifelong career in the arts, studying theatre can give you valuable skills that apply to nearly every profession and aspect of life. At Barton, we believe theatre is for everyone—and the benefits go far beyond the stage.
Oral Communication Skills
Acting helps you become comfortable speaking confidently in front of others. Technical theatre work also strengthens your ability to clearly communicate ideas and collaborate with a team.
Creative Problem-Solving
Whether you're acting, directing, or working backstage, theatre trains you to think quickly, troubleshoot effectively, and develop creative solutions with the resources at hand.
Time Management
Balancing classes, rehearsals, and independent work teaches you to prioritize and manage time efficiently—essential skills in both academic and professional settings.
No matter your career goals, the skills you develop through theatre—communication, collaboration, creativity, and discipline—will stay with you for life.
Discover Career Paths
Discover Career Paths
Visit the What Can I Do with My Major? webpage to find helpful resources on career paths, employers and more!
Admissions
You are only a few quick steps away from becoming a Barton Cougar! The Admissions process is quick, easy and free - we're here to help you through every step of the way. Start your future today!
Student Life
Barton is dedicated to creating a vibrant and engaging student experience! From clubs to student activities, we offer countless opportunities to make the most of your time as a Cougar.