L1 Performing Arts Technology

Level 1 Performing Arts Technology (1PAT)

The Performing Arts Technology course teaches students the practical and managerial skills needed to plan, produce, and operate various events, from school performances and concerts to conferences and festivals. Students learn about technical aspects like stage management, lighting, sound, and costume, as well as management skills such as marketing, budgeting, logistics, and stakeholder evaluation. The goal is to develop professionals who can bring different types of events to life, from concept to successful execution.

PAT is a Unit Standards Course and offers practical knowledge in events and entertainment technologies.

Key competencies for PAT include technical skills in areas like lighting, sound, rigging, and scenic construction, alongside essential transferable skills like safe work practices, problem-solving, and communication with crew and clients. These competencies, often gained through specific qualifications like the NZ Certificate in Entertainment, Event and Screen Production Technology, prepare individuals for various roles within the industry, such as assistant technicians and stage management. 

Technical & Practical Competencies

These are the core skills needed to operate and manage event and entertainment technologies:

• Lighting: Designing, installing, and operating lighting systems for performances and events. 
• Sound: Setting up, running, and dismantling audio equipment for live events and recordings. 
• Rigging: Safely installing and operating equipment, such as lighting rigs and sound speakers, for events and performances. 
• Stage Management: Coordinating production processes to ensure smooth event execution, managing schedules, and assisting with documentation. 
• Scenic Construction: Building and modifying stage sets, props, and backdrops using various construction methods and digital tools. 
• Video/Camera Operations: Shooting and managing video for productions and events. 

Professional & Transferable Competencies

These skills are critical for success in the entertainment and events industry:

• Health and Safety: Adhering to industry safety standards, following codes of conduct, and implementing safe working practices. 
• Problem-Solving: Identifying and troubleshooting technical issues that arise during events or performances. 
• Communication: Effectively communicating with other crew members, departments, and stakeholders to meet project requirements. 
• Teamwork & Collaboration: Working effectively as part of a technical crew and with various departments to achieve event goals. 
• Professional Conduct: Maintaining professional etiquette, being reliable, and demonstrating good customer service. 
• Self-Management: Organising work, meeting deadlines, and managing personal responsibilities within the demanding environment of events and productions. 

Technical Skills:

• Set and prop construction 

• Stage management and operations 

• Lighting and sound design, rigging, and programming 

• Costume design and creation 

• Makeup design and application 

• Video production 

Management Skills:

• Event planning, coordination, and project management 

• Marketing and promotion for events and artists 

• Budgeting and financial management 

• Logistics, including staffing, volunteers, and venue selection 

• Contract creation and stakeholder evaluation 

• Risk management and resource coordination 

Soft Skills:

• Communication and interpretation 

• Teamwork and collaboration 

• Problem-solving and creative thinking 

• Organizational and people management skills 

Types of Events Covered: 

• Performances (theatre, music)

• Concerts

• Social and cultural events

• Sports and leisure activities

• Assemblies and formal events

Careers and Pathways

Graduates can work in a variety of operational and supervisory roles within the entertainment and events industry, including event management, stage management, technical production, and marketing. Students who study PAT can look to take apprenticeships in theatres around New Zealand and continue on the PAT course into Level 4. Students can also look at university degrees in similar subjects.