Certificate in Technical Theatre & Production (Level 1)

The Certificate in Technical Theatre & Production (Level 1) is an exciting initiative designed for individuals to develop and level up their technical skills for working in the arts, entertainment or related industries. This six-month sponsored training programme combines theory and hands-on practice to equip you with foundational knowledge in technical production, including stage lighting, performance sound, and stagecraft. In addition, trainees will be attached to external venues for two months of on-the-job training.  

Jointly offered by Esplanade Academy and Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA), this immersive experience provides the opportunity for participants to acquire the knowledge and practical expertise to work on a live performance or production. Whether you are just starting out or looking to gain hands-on experience, this programme is your gateway to the world of theatrical production. 

Trainees will learn and be assessed on the technical aspects of theatrical production including stage lighting, performance sound and staging. They will be mentored and supervised in the course of this training programme. 

Lighting 

• Interpretation of lighting plans of productions 

• Identifying lighting equipment and its usage 

• Pre-production preparation for a live production 

• Rigging & de-rigging of lighting fixtures for production 

• Post-production maintenance of lighting equipment 

Sound

• Interpretation of technical specifications of sound plans for productions 

• Identifying audio equipment and its usage 

• Pre-production preparation for a live production 

• Setting-up sound equipment according to production plan 

• Perform sound quality checks 

• Operating sound equipment 

• Post-production strike for sound equipment 

• Troubleshooting during pre, during and post-production 

Staging

• Assist in execution of set-ups & strikes for production 

• Rigging scene props and staging equipment 

• Basic maintenance for staging equipment 

• Application of power tools in workshop 

• Carpentry

• Joint certification: Trainees will graduate with a joint certificate from Esplanade Academy and Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA). 

• Skills alignment: The programme offers comprehensive training across stage lighting, performance sound, and stagecraft, preparing you for entry-level roles in technical theatre. 

• Hands-on learning: Experience robust classroom and practical training, mentored by industry professionals and supported by real-world production environments. 

• Duration of training: 1 Jun 2026 – 31 Dec 2026 

• Status during training: An Esplanade trainee 

• Cost of training: $40,650 (fully sponsored by National Arts Council (NAC) & The Esplanade Co Ltd) 

• Training Allowance: $1,600 per month (no other allowances and benefits payable) 

• One-time Sign-on bonus: $1,000 

• Vacation leave: 4 days, as approved by Esplanade 

• Training hours: As per production schedule  

• Commitment: Serve a bond of 2,288 working hours within a year upon completion of training. 

• Must be a Singapore Citizen or a Permanent Resident 

• Must minimally have completed GCE ‘N’ Levels 

• For male candidates: completed full-time national service  

• Prior work experience in the arts and entertainment industry will be advantageous 

• Computer literacy is an asset 

• Aptitude for technical work and comfortable working with hand tools  

• Physically fit, as this role will require heavy lifting and movements 

• An interview will be conducted to select suitable candidates for the programme

• Trainee will be bonded to work for 2,288 hrs after the training programme. The bond period of 2,288 hours is to be completed within one year upon graduating. 

• Trainee will be attached to an external venue for a two-month mandatory attachment, under the sponsorship. These two months will be accounted as their bond hours. 

• Insurance coverage for any injury sustained during training. This includes basic hospitalisation and surgical insurance coverage.