Advanced Professional Certificate in Scenography and Event Production

Submodule 1.1. History and evolution of set design

Traces the evolution of performance space from classical theater to today's events.

Submodule 1.2. Theater set design versus event set design

Compares the languages, objectives and constraints of both fields.

Submodule 1.3. Event dramaturgy

Structures the event as a story with rhythm, climax and resolution.

Submodule 1.4. Stage types and the relationship with the audience

Analyzes proscenium, arena, runway and surround stages.

Submodule 1.5. Elements of stage language

Combines space, light, color, texture and movement with narrative intent.

Submodule 1.6. Roles in a stage production

Covers the roles of set designer, technical director, stage manager and production manager.

Submodule 1.7. Reading and interpreting the creative brief

Extracts the spatial, technical and symbolic requirements from a brief.

Submodule 1.8. Contemporary benchmarks in stage design

Studies leading set designers and productions in tours, galas and conferences.

Submodule 1.9. Set design for corporate formats

Adapts staging resources to conventions, shareholder meetings and product launches.

Submodule 1.10. Set design for festivals and shows

Covers the constraints of open-air stages and large audiences.

Submodule 2.1. The creative process in stage design

Moves from visual research to the final set design concept.

Submodule 2.2. Mood boards and visual references

Builds reference boards that communicate atmosphere and style.

Submodule 2.3. Stage sketches and storyboards

Represents key scenes of the event through sequential sketches.

Submodule 2.4. Physical scale models

Builds models to study volumes, sightlines and scene changes.

Submodule 2.5. Floor plans, elevations and sections

Prepares technical drawings of the stage with dimensions and references.

Submodule 2.6. 3D modeling with SketchUp and Vectorworks

Models sets and spaces for presentation and technical analysis.

Submodule 2.7. Stage visualization and renders

Produces realistic images for client approval.

Submodule 2.8. Sightline studies

Checks visibility from every seat in the house.

Submodule 2.9. Designing scene changes

Plans quick, safe scenic transformations during the event.

Submodule 2.10. Presenting the set design project

Defends the design to clients and technical teams.

Submodule 3.1. The scenic workshop and its organization

Covers how a scenic construction workshop operates.

Submodule 3.2. Flats, rostrums and platforms

Builds the basic structural elements of a set.

Submodule 3.3. Lightweight scenic materials

Works with polystyrene, foams, fabrics and composite materials.

Submodule 3.4. Scenic painting and aging techniques

Applies painting techniques, textures and faux-finish effects.

Submodule 3.5. Stage fabrics: drapes, scrims and cycloramas

Selects stage textiles according to use, opacity and projection.

Submodule 3.6. Props and decorative elements

Designs and sources props consistent with the concept.

Submodule 3.7. Modular and reusable sets

Designs pieces that can be reconfigured for different events and tours.

Submodule 3.8. Fire-retardant treatments and certificates

Ensures that scenic materials meet fire-reaction requirements.

Submodule 3.9. Stage machinery and moving elements

Covers platforms, revolves, wagons and stage lifting systems.

Submodule 3.10. Digital fabrication for set design

Uses CNC, 3D printing and laser cutting for scenic pieces.

Submodule 4.1. Stage lighting design

Creates a lighting plan that supports the event's narrative.

Submodule 4.2. Types of luminaires and fixtures

Selects profiles, PCs, Fresnels, moving heads and LED fixtures.

Submodule 4.3. Lighting plot and patch sheets

Documents the positions, channels and DMX addresses of each fixture.

Submodule 4.4. Programming scenes and cues

Programs lighting states and transitions synchronized with the running order.

Submodule 4.5. Color, gels and temperature on stage

Uses the color of light to build atmospheres and emotions.

Submodule 4.6. Lighting speakers and performers

Lights people for the live audience and for camera.

Submodule 4.7. Exterior and facade lighting

Designs lighting for open spaces and landmark buildings.

Submodule 4.8. Atmospheric effects: smoke and haze

Uses smoke and haze machines safely and in a controlled way.

Submodule 4.9. Stage pyrotechnics and special effects

Covers the legal and technical requirements for pyrotechnic and cryogenic effects.

Submodule 4.10. Sound and scent ambience

Complements the set with soundscapes and aromas.

Submodule 5.1. LED screens as a set element

Integrates LED surfaces into the stage design with aesthetic judgment.

Submodule 5.2. Video projection and stage mapping

Projects content onto sets and three-dimensional volumes.

Submodule 5.3. Visual content for set design

Commissions and directs video content tailored to the stage.

Submodule 5.4. Media servers and synchronization

Synchronizes video, lighting and sound using timecode.

Submodule 5.5. Sound systems for shows

Coordinates the integration of the PA with the set and visuals.

Submodule 5.6. Virtual sets and extended reality

Combines physical stages with virtual environments for broadcasts.

Submodule 5.7. Holograms and optical effects

Covers techniques such as Pepper's ghost and projection onto scrims.

Submodule 5.8. Robotics and stage automation

Integrates motorized elements controlled by software.

Submodule 5.9. Interactivity and tracking on stage

Uses sensors and tracking so that the scene responds to performers.

Submodule 5.10. Coordinating with broadcast teams

Adapts the stage design to the needs of cameras and streaming.

Submodule 6.1. Technical production management

Coordinates all technical departments toward a common goal.

Submodule 6.2. Technical rider and production requirements

Prepares complete technical riders for venues and suppliers.

Submodule 6.3. Technical venue survey

Analyzes the venue's load limits, heights, rigging points, access and power.

Submodule 6.4. Rigging and hanging points

Plans suspended structures with load calculations and certified personnel.

Submodule 6.5. Temporary structures and outdoor stages

Covers stages, roofs and towers for open-air events.

Submodule 6.6. Power and generators

Sizes the power supply and generators for complex productions.

Submodule 6.7. Production schedule and milestones

Plans from design to opening night with verifiable milestones.

Submodule 6.8. Coordinating technical suppliers

Manages lighting, sound, video, structures and scenery companies.

Submodule 6.9. Load-in, rehearsals and load-out

Organizes load-in, technical rehearsal and load-out days.

Submodule 6.10. Managing tours and traveling events

Adapts productions to different venues while maintaining quality and timings.

Submodule 7.1. Running order and calling script

Prepares the calling script with all cues and entrances.

Submodule 7.2. The stage manager's duties

Covers the stage manager's responsibilities before, during and after the show.

Submodule 7.3. Calling cues and technical instructions

Gives technicians clear instructions using intercom and protocols.

Submodule 7.4. Coordinating performers and speakers

Manages dressing rooms, timings, access and stage entrances.

Submodule 7.5. Backstage management

Organizes the space behind the stage for an orderly flow.

Submodule 7.6. Technical and dress rehearsals

Leads rehearsals to fine-tune timings, positions and effects.

Submodule 7.7. Handling live incidents

Resolves on-stage incidents without the audience noticing.

Submodule 7.8. Stage protocol at official ceremonies

Applies order of precedence and protocol on stage.

Submodule 7.9. Award ceremonies and galas

Plans the stage mechanics of galas and award ceremonies.

Submodule 7.10. Communicating with the client during the event

Keeps the client informed and manages last-minute changes.

Submodule 8.1. Set design and production budget

Structures the budget by design, construction and technical line items.

Submodule 8.2. Requesting and comparing bids

Prepares technical specifications and compares supplier bids.

Submodule 8.3. Negotiating with suppliers

Negotiates prices, deadlines and service terms.

Submodule 8.4. Production and technical service contracts

Defines scope, responsibilities, insurance and penalties.

Submodule 8.5. Copyright in set design

Protects authorship of the design and regulates its assignment to the client.

Submodule 8.6. Cost control and change management

Tracks actual spending and prices project modifications.

Submodule 8.7. Managing purchases and rentals

Decides whether to buy, rent or build scenic elements.

Submodule 8.8. Sponsorship and production funding

Covers sources of funding and sponsorship for shows.

Submodule 8.9. Invoicing and financial close

Closes the project with cost and margin reconciliation.

Submodule 8.10. Profitability and margins in production

Analyzes the profitability of set design and production projects.

Submodule 9.1. Public entertainment regulations

Covers the legal requirements for licenses and public shows.

Submodule 9.2. Emergency and self-protection plan

Integrates the set into the event's emergency plan.

Submodule 9.3. Risk prevention in stage installation

Applies preventive measures to installation, work at height and manual handling.

Submodule 9.4. Evacuation, capacity and signage

Ensures evacuation routes compatible with the stage design.

Submodule 9.5. Safety in special effects

Complies with requirements for safety distances, permits and licensed operators.

Submodule 9.6. Insurance and public liability

Takes out suitable cover for stage productions.

Submodule 9.7. Sustainable set design and the circular economy

Designs with reusable materials and second-life plans.

Submodule 9.8. Energy efficiency in lighting and technical equipment

Reduces consumption through LED technology and efficient planning.

Submodule 9.9. Production waste management

Separates, reuses and recycles materials after teardown.

Submodule 9.10. Evaluating results and KPIs

Measures satisfaction, visual impact, costs and deadline compliance.

Submodule 10.1. Creative direction of events

Leads the overall creative vision of a staged event.

Submodule 10.2. Integrating stage disciplines

Coordinates set design, lighting, video, sound and live performance.

Submodule 10.3. Managing creative and technical teams

Leads multidisciplinary teams with effective communication.

Submodule 10.4. Managing risks in the stage project

Identifies creative, technical and financial risks and prepares response plans.

Submodule 10.5. Innovation and new stage technologies

Assesses emerging technologies applicable to staging.

Submodule 10.6. International productions

Adapts projects to the regulations, languages and crews of other countries.

Submodule 10.7. Project documentation and records

Prepares technical and artistic documentation for archiving and replication.

Submodule 10.8. Winning clients and selling projects

Presents persuasive staging proposals to clients and agencies.

Submodule 10.9. Professional set design portfolio

Builds a portfolio with sketches, drawings and project photographs.

Submodule 10.10. Planning the final master's project

Defines the event, scope and schedule of the final project.

Staging design and production plan for a real or simulated event: set design concept, drawings and scale model, lighting and visual design, calling script, budget, safety plan and KPIs, with a defense before an assessment panel.