🎭 Backstage Bootcamp: A FREE Crash Course in Theatre Production!
Presented by Michael Naffziger

Step behind the curtain and discover the magic that makes the show go on! This immersive, hands-on FREE crash course is perfect for anyone curious about what happens backstage. Throughout the week, participants will explore all facets of technical theatre—lighting, sound, set design, stage management, and more. By the end of the program, you’ll put your new skills to the test as part of the official tech crew for a live production at the Vero Beach Theatre Guild!

🔧 DAY 1 – THE TEAM BEHIND THE MAGIC

What makes a great stage manager?

Try out every theatre role—2 minutes at each station!

Explore the unique protocols and time-honored traditions of the theatre world.

🛠️ DAY 2 – SHOP & SET DESIGN

Tour the theatre’s backstage shop and learn how it works.

Tool time! Get hands-on with shop safety and essential tools.

Dive into scenic construction with a focus on theatrical lumber and materials.

🔊 DAY 3 – SOUND DESIGN & TECH

Learn how to mic and sound-check an actor like a pro.

Mix live sound using a soundboard.

Discover how to create and implement a dynamic sound design.

💡 DAY 4 – LIGHTING THE STAGE

Explore different lighting fixtures and their uses.

Practice mounting, focusing, and adjusting lights safely.

Get hands-on with programming and running a lighting plot.

🎭 DAY 5 – STAGE CREW IN ACTION

Learn the ins and outs of being a running crew member.

Explore how a fly system works—and try operating one!

Take a deep dive into the anatomy of the Vero Beach Theatre Guild’s performance space.

By week’s end, you won’t just know what it takes to run a show—you’ll be doing it. Whether you're interested in tech theatre as a hobby or a career, this is your all-access pass to the backstage world.

Welcome to the Hundred Acre Wood, where Winnie the Pooh is once again in search of honey. Along the way, he meets his pals, Tigger, Piglet, Rabbit and Owl, but soon discovers that Christopher Robin has been captured by the mysterious Backson! As they prepare for a rescue operation, the animals learn about teamwork, friendship and, of course... sharing snacks.

Filled with all of their favorite characters, Disney's Winnie the Pooh KIDS is a favorite for children to perform.

In-Person Audition Date: April 26th, 10 AM-1 PM

Virtual Auditions: Due by April 26th at 10 AM

Rehearsal Schedule:

Monday-Friday, 9 AM-3 PM, from June 2nd-June 13th

Performance Dates:

Friday, June 13th at 7:00 PM

Saturday, June 14th at 2:00 PM

Sunday, June 15th at 2:00 PM

Ages: Open to students entering 3rd-5th grade this fall.

Registration Cost: $300

It's our show now, kid. The ghost-with-the-most comes to the stage in Beetlejuice JR., the frightfully funny musical based on the beloved motion picture turned Broadway phenomenon. Lydia Deetz is a strange and unusual teenager, still grieving the loss of her mother and obsessed with the whole “being dead thing.” Lucky for Lydia, she and her father move to a new house haunted by a recently deceased couple and Beetlejuice, a delightful demon with a real zest for life. When Lydia calls on Beetlejuice to scare away anyone with a pulse, this double-crossing specter shows his true stripes, unleashing a (Nether)world of pandemonium.

In-Person Audition Date: April 25th, 4 PM-7 PM

Virtual Auditions: Due by April 25th at 4 PM

Rehearsal Schedule:

Monday-Friday, 9 AM-4 PM, from June 9th-June 27th

Performance Dates:

Friday, June 27th at 7:00 PM

Saturday, June 28th at 2:00 PM

Sunday, June 29th at 2:00 PM

Ages: Open to students entering 6th-9th grade this fall.

Registration Cost: $500