Scenic Studio

A person wearing headphones and an apron works on a woodworking project at a cluttered workbench, assembling a wooden box with tools and materials scattered around in a workshop.
A person measures a piece of wood on a workbench in a workshop. Nearby are a circular saw, shelves with wood planks, and various tools. The scene is well-lit and organized.
A man in a pink shirt and cargo pants stands on a stage reading from a script. Behind him is a wooden structure with vintage items, mannequins, and hanging clothes, creating a theatrical set.
Five women rehearse on a theater stage. One woman stands near a metal trash can while others interact around her. Stage props and costumes are visible in the background under stage lights.
Four people work on a theater stage set. Two kneel on the floor using tools, while two others stand talking. The background is dark with visible stage equipment and lighting.
A person operates a control panel in a dimly lit booth, overlooking an empty stage with set pieces. Multiple monitors display lighting controls, and notes and colored sheets are scattered on the desk.
Two people, seen from behind, are assembling a large wooden structure indoors. They are surrounded by various stage props, including a lamp, a chair, and some cables on the wall in a backstage setting.
Two people work on a stage; one stands wearing overalls while the other kneels near tools and a red box. In the background, others are also working under stage lighting. A tape measure and paper sit on the floor.

Constructing the Worlds Our Stories Live In

Our Scenic Shop is where the visual world of every production comes to life. Located directly across the hall from the Gorecki Theater, the shop houses all scenery and props built for departmental shows. This modern studio is fully equipped with the tools, technology and professional practices found in contemporary scenic construction environments.

Students work with a complete range of stationary and portable tools, including Delta equipment and a DeWalt sliding compound miter saw. The shop also features a full array of pneumatic tools and battery-powered devices—mirroring the toolsets used in professional theaters nationwide and ensuring students gain relevant, hands-on experience.

Modern Materials & Techniques

Scenery today goes far beyond wood and muslin. Our students learn to work with plastics, foams, neoprene and especially steel, using them just as they are used in the industry. The csb+sju Scenic Shop supports metalworking with:

This allows students to explore advanced construction techniques and expand their creative capabilities.

Designed for Creativity & Safety

The studio includes a counter-weighted paint frame for painting drops and flats with ease and precision. A comprehensive dust collection system and mist/fume exhaust ensure a clean, safe environment—ideal for learning scenic carpentry, prop building and scenic painting.

Logo with comedy and tragedy masks, sparkles, a ballet shoe, “THEATER DANCE” in red curved text, and “program” in blue curved text on a white background.

Sean Dooley, Chair
Theater + Dance Program
320-363-5414