Advanced Professional Certificate in Technology and Stage Design for Events

Submodule 1.1. History and evolution of live set design

Traces the evolution of the stage from classical theater to today's large-scale events.

Submodule 1.2. Stage types and audience configurations

Compares proscenium, arena, runway and 360-degree stages according to capacity and sightlines.

Submodule 1.3. Reading the brief and the staging concept

Translates the client's objectives into a coherent, defensible staging concept.

Submodule 1.4. Composition, scale and proportion in space

Applies principles of visual composition to balance stage, screens and audience.

Submodule 1.5. Sightlines and camera angles

Calculates audience sightlines and camera positions to avoid blind spots.

Submodule 1.6. Spatial narrative and the audience journey

Designs the attendee experience from entry to the main focal point.

Submodule 1.7. Mood boards and visual references

Builds reference boards to align aesthetics, materials and palette with the client.

Submodule 1.8. Roles in the design and technical production team

Identifies the roles of set designer, technical director, rigger and production manager.

Submodule 1.9. Technical stage terminology

Masters the professional vocabulary of staging, stage machinery, lighting and audiovisual equipment.

Submodule 1.10. Case studies of iconic stages

Analyzes tour and conference stages to identify replicable design decisions.

Submodule 2.1. Floor plans, elevations and sections

Produces clear technical drawings with scales, dimensions and standard symbols.

Submodule 2.2. 2D design with AutoCAD and Vectorworks Spotlight

Draws stage and rigging plans using industry-standard CAD tools.

Submodule 2.3. 3D stage modeling with SketchUp

Models set volumes and structures to validate proportions with the client.

Submodule 2.4. Visualization with Cinema 4D and Blender

Generates photorealistic views of the stage with materials, lights and virtual cameras.

Submodule 2.5. Lighting previsualization with Capture and WYSIWYG

Simulates lighting rigs and scenes to pre-program before load-in.

Submodule 2.6. Object libraries and technical symbols

Manages libraries of truss, fixtures, speakers and screens to speed up design.

Submodule 2.7. Renders and client presentations

Prepares persuasive visual presentations with renders, walkthroughs and technical sheets.

Submodule 2.8. Managing drawing layers and versions

Organizes layers, revisions and change control in collaborative projects.

Submodule 2.9. Venue scanning and surveying

Obtains accurate measurements of the space using laser tools, photogrammetry and existing plans.

Submodule 2.10. Technical documentation for suppliers

Prepares drawing packages and lists for fabrication and equipment rental.

Submodule 3.1. Types of truss and staging systems

Selects truss, modular staging and risers according to span, load and height.

Submodule 3.2. Calculating loads and rigging points

Calculates point and distributed loads to define safe rigging points.

Submodule 3.3. Motors, hoists and controllers

Covers chain motors, controllers and D8 and D8 Plus lifting systems.

Submodule 3.4. Rigging plan and coordination with the venue

Prepares the rigging plot and validates it with the venue's technical management.

Submodule 3.5. Temporary structures and safety regulations

Applies regulations on temporary structures and the required installation certificates.

Submodule 3.6. Outdoor stages and wind loads

Assesses ballast, roofs and wind protocols for open-air stages.

Submodule 3.7. Stage machinery and moving elements

Integrates lifts, revolves and motorized bars into the stage design.

Submodule 3.8. Stage automation with Kinesys and similar systems

Programs automated element movements with speed and position control.

Submodule 3.9. Inspection and maintenance of lifting equipment

Plans periodic inspections and records for lifting equipment and slings.

Submodule 3.10. Working at height and protective equipment

Defines protocols for working at height, lifelines and mandatory PPE.

Submodule 4.1. Fundamentals of light, color and temperature

Explains intensity, color temperature and color rendering index as applied to the stage.

Submodule 4.2. Types of fixtures and moving heads

Compares profiles, washes, beams and LED moving heads according to stage use.

Submodule 4.3. Designing the lighting plot

Prepares the lighting plot with positions, channels and DMX addressing.

Submodule 4.4. DMX512, Art-Net and sACN protocols

Configures lighting control networks and resolves addressing conflicts.

Submodule 4.5. Programming on grandMA and Avolites consoles

Programs cues, presets and effects on professional lighting consoles.

Submodule 4.6. Lighting for camera and streaming

Adjusts levels and color temperature for proper broadcast capture.

Submodule 4.7. Atmospheric effects: smoke, haze and CO2

Integrates atmospheric effects while respecting the venue's fire detection systems.

Submodule 4.8. Timecode and show synchronization

Synchronizes lighting with audio and video using SMPTE timecode and MIDI.

Submodule 4.9. Energy efficiency in LED lighting

Reduces consumption and heat load by selecting LED sources and planning power requirements.

Submodule 4.10. Architectural and ambient lighting

Lights facades, entrances and hospitality areas consistently with the staging concept.

Submodule 5.1. Venue acoustics for events

Analyzes reverberation, reflections and isolation to anticipate intelligibility problems.

Submodule 5.2. Line array and point source systems

Selects and designs sound reinforcement systems according to coverage and capacity.

Submodule 5.3. Acoustic prediction with simulation software

Simulates coverage and sound pressure levels with tools such as EASE Focus.

Submodule 5.4. Digital consoles and signal flow

Configures digital consoles, scenes and signal routing for conferences and shows.

Submodule 5.5. Microphones and radio frequency management

Coordinates wireless microphone and intercom frequencies to avoid interference.

Submodule 5.6. Dante and AVB audio networks

Designs digital audio networks with redundancy and latency management.

Submodule 5.7. In-ear and stage monitoring

Plans monitor systems for speakers, performers and presenters.

Submodule 5.8. Sound level control and regulations

Applies sound exposure limits and measurement protocols during the event.

Submodule 5.9. System alignment and equalization

Aligns subwoofers and arrays with analyzers such as Smaart for an even response.

Submodule 5.10. Audio for simultaneous interpretation and streaming

Integrates interpretation booths and clean audio feeds for broadcast.

Submodule 6.1. LED screen technology and pixel pitch

Chooses LED screens according to pitch, brightness, viewing distance and format.

Submodule 6.2. Projection and video mapping

Plans projectors, lenses and overlaps for mapping onto set surfaces.

Submodule 6.3. Media servers: disguise, Resolume and Watchout

Manages content and video outputs with professional media servers.

Submodule 6.4. Signal processing and scalers

Configures processors, switchers and scalers for multi-source signals.

Submodule 6.5. Content design for non-standard formats

Creates content templates adapted to irregular screen resolutions and shapes.

Submodule 6.6. Live multi-camera direction

Coordinates cameras, vision mixer and IMAG for in-room screens and broadcast.

Submodule 6.7. XR stages and virtual production

Integrates LED screens, camera tracking and real-time graphics engines.

Submodule 6.8. Presentation systems and confidence monitors

Installs cue lights, teleprompters and confidence monitors for speakers.

Submodule 6.9. Color management and screen calibration

Calibrates screens and projectors to maintain color consistency on camera.

Submodule 6.10. Rights and management of audiovisual content

Controls licenses for images, music and videos used on stage.

Submodule 7.1. Power calculation and phase balancing

Calculates total consumption and distributes balanced loads across available phases.

Submodule 7.2. Generators and temporary power supply

Sizes generators, redundancy and fuel consumption for events.

Submodule 7.3. Power distribution and stage distribution boards

Plans distribution boards, protection and cable runs in line with applicable low-voltage regulations.

Submodule 7.4. Grounding and electrical safety

Applies grounding and residual current protection measures in temporary installations.

Submodule 7.5. Data networks for technical production

Designs networks with VLANs and fiber for lighting, audio and video control.

Submodule 7.6. Wi-Fi and 5G connectivity for attendees

Sizes wireless connectivity according to capacity and digital services.

Submodule 7.7. Cable management and cable protectors

Organizes safe, labeled cable runs that remain accessible for maintenance.

Submodule 7.8. Uninterruptible power supplies

Protects critical equipment with UPS systems and switchover plans for outages.

Submodule 7.9. Batteries and renewable energy at events

Assesses battery and solar solutions to reduce dependence on diesel generators.

Submodule 7.10. Documenting infrastructure schematics

Prepares single-line diagrams and network diagrams for the technical team.

Submodule 8.1. Technical rider and requirements sheet

Interprets performer and speaker riders and turns them into equipment lists.

Submodule 8.2. Planning load-in and load-out

Builds realistic schedules for loading, setup, testing and teardown.

Submodule 8.3. Truck loading logistics and access

Coordinates loading docks, unloading slots and supplier arrival order.

Submodule 8.4. Technical rehearsals and dress rehearsal

Organizes department tests and full run-throughs before doors open.

Submodule 8.5. Run of show and technical script

Writes running orders with lighting, sound, video and scenic movement cues.

Submodule 8.6. Stage management and calling cues

Calls the show from the stage manager's desk, coordinating departments via intercom.

Submodule 8.7. Managing stage changeovers

Plans quick changeovers between segments with appropriate crew and signaling.

Submodule 8.8. Coordinating supplier teams

Leads technical meetings and resolves clashes between suppliers during setup.

Submodule 8.9. Resolving live incidents

Applies backup protocols and makes fast decisions when technical failures occur live.

Submodule 8.10. Technical wrap-up and post-event report

Documents incidents, consumption and lessons learned after teardown.

Submodule 9.1. Entertainment regulations and permits

Reviews permit requirements, capacity limits and the technical documentation required by the authorities.

Submodule 9.2. Technical risk assessment

Identifies hazards during setup, operation and teardown and defines preventive measures.

Submodule 9.3. Coordinating contractor activities

Manages health and safety coordination between companies working in the same venue.

Submodule 9.4. Evacuation plan and emergency exits

Integrates the stage into the venue's emergency plan without blocking evacuation routes.

Submodule 9.5. Fire-retardant materials and certificates

Requires fire-reaction ratings and certificates for set materials.

Submodule 9.6. Itemized technical budget

Prepares detailed budgets for equipment, staff, transport and contingencies.

Submodule 9.7. Negotiating with technical suppliers

Compares quotes, defines scopes and negotiates rental and service terms.

Submodule 9.8. Insurance and public liability

Determines the coverage needed for equipment, staff and third parties at the event.

Submodule 9.9. Circular and reusable set design

Designs modular, reusable elements to reduce waste from each production.

Submodule 9.10. Measuring the technical carbon footprint

Calculates emissions associated with the stage's energy, transport and materials.

Submodule 10.1. The role of the event technical director

Takes on technical leadership, decision-making and client communication responsibilities.

Submodule 10.2. Managing multidisciplinary technical teams

Organizes shifts, roles and communication for lighting, sound and video teams.

Submodule 10.3. Trends in stage technology

Assesses augmented reality, holography and stage robotics as applied to events.

Submodule 10.4. Interactivity and sensors on stage

Integrates sensors, tracking and generative content that react to the audience.

Submodule 10.5. Project management with agile methodologies

Applies planning and tracking tools to complex technical projects.

Submodule 10.6. Technical quality indicators

Defines quality, punctuality and cost KPIs to evaluate the production.

Submodule 10.7. Accessibility in stage design

Incorporates ramps, hearing loops, captioning and interpreters into the design.

Submodule 10.8. Technical proposals for competitions and tenders

Writes competitive technical proposals for public and private tenders.

Submodule 10.9. Presenting and defending the project

Structures the defense of the stage design before a client, committee or assessment panel.

Submodule 10.10. Developing the integrated stage project

Brings together design, technology, budget and safety in a complete stage project.

Complete design and technical direction of a stage for a real or simulated large-scale event, with 3D drawings, a rigging plan, lighting, sound and video design, a budget, a risk assessment and indicators, defended before an assessment panel.