Design and Tech Academy

Interview sign-ups are available starting January 10th.

This interview-based program is designed for students interested in a behind-the-scenes experience! Through hands-on work in the classroom and backstage, students explore the roles of deck crew, sound and lighting technicians, dressers, and stage management. Connect with professionals, build your resume, and grow as people and artists in a supportive and fun atmosphere modeled after a professional production process. This learning experience culminates with applied work on Orlando Family Stage’s Youth Academy production of Once Upon A One More Time.

When Fairy Godmother goes rogue and plops copies of The Feminine Mystique in the laps of classic heroines, like Cinderella, Snow White, the Evil Stepmother, and other fairy tale favorites, the damsels embark on a quest to rewrite their stories and redefine “happily ever after.” Powered by the chart-topping hits of the undisputed Princess of Pop, Once Upon A One More Time turns our favorite fairytales upside down with a clever twist! Once Upon A One More Time weaves 23 of Britney Spears’ smash singles—like Crazy, Oops!…I Did It Again, Circus, Lucky, and Toxic—into a big, modern, musical dance party, with Britney’s beating heart at its core.

What You Will Learn

• Elements of design and creation in all areas of the theatrical process: scenic, costumes, lighting, sound, deck crew, and stage management
• Self-confidence and bravery in making creative choices and expressing yourself
• Self-discipline and self-awareness required for rehearsing and participating in a production process
• Collaboration, teamwork, and empathy for others

What to Expect 

• Engaging, interactive classes and rehearsals led by experienced teaching artists
• Supportive and inclusive environment designed for students to connect with each other
• An ensemble based approach to learning and creating
• Project-based learning and hands-on opportunities to contribute to the final production 
• Guest speakers and off-site field trips to learn about theatre careers
• Spend approximately three weeks in class before transitioning to crew positions
• Opportunities to share ideas and receive personalized feedback
• Interviews held in April secure a spot in the DTA. Backstage assignments are determined after classes start in June. No one is cut from the crew once classes start.

What to Bring

• Students are encouraged to bring a water bottle and a nut-free snack each day
• Students should bring their script and a pencil each day
• It is recommended that students are prepared to wear ‘paint-clothes’, AKA clothes that can get messy, on designated days.

Schedule

• Interviews: TBD April 2026
• Parent and Student Orientation: Monday, June 8; 6-8pm
• Rehearsals: 
  • Class: 
    • Monday-Thursday, June 15-18; 2:30-6:30 (No rehearsal June 19th)
    • Monday-Friday, June 22-26; 2:30-6:30pm
    • Monday-Thursday, June 29-July 2; 2:30-6:30pm (No rehearsal July 3rd)
  • Tech: 
    • Monday, July 6 & 7; 2:30-7:30pm
    • Tuesday, July 7; 9:30am-1:30pm (Crew Prep) & 2:30-7:30pm (Rehearsal)
    • Wednesday-Friday, July 8-10; 1-9pm
    • Sunday-Tuesday, July 12-14; 1-9pm
    • Thursday, July 16; 1-9pm
• • Performances:
    • Friday, July 17 at 7pm
    • Saturday, July 18 at 2pm and 7pm
    • Sunday, July 19 at 2pm (possible performance at 7pm)

Questions? 

• See our Policies and FAQs
• Contact us at (407) 896-7365 x219 or [email protected]
• Select summer camp offerings for your child based on the grade they are entering in the upcoming school year.