Theater Students Explore Behind-the-Scenes Careers

Local high schoolers learn about venue production and event management at a recent two-day workshop at the Tanger Center.

Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Secondary Education

Bold vector editorial illustration of a theatrical spotlight on a tripod, symbolizing behind-the-scenes theater production roles. — Greensboro high school students explored behind-the-scenes production and event management careers during a two-day workshop at the Tanger Center. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Should local schools prioritize career training for behind-the-scenes roles in the performing arts industry?

More than 400 high school theater students from four local school districts gathered at the Tanger Center for a two-day career exploration event. The workshop focused on the behind-the-scenes roles that support live entertainment.

Why it matters

By exposing students to production and management roles, the event highlights career paths in the arts beyond stage performance. It connects local high schoolers with real-world industry experience to help them plan future vocational interests.

Over 400 students participated in the two-day event held at the Tanger Center. The program drew attendees from Greensboro, Guilford County, Alamance/Burlington, and Asheboro City Schools.

The players

Tanger Center

A Greensboro-based performing arts venue that hosts major touring productions and local cultural events.

Guilford County Schools

The local school district serving the Greensboro area that partnered in the student career event.

The details

The curriculum focused on the infrastructure required to run a professional performing arts venue. Students engaged in hands-on sessions covering production, marketing, event management, and booking. These activities demonstrate the technical and administrative skills needed to support live performance spaces.

The two-day event concluded on October 21, 2026.

The Home Front

This collaborative effort aligns with the national shift toward providing students with clearer vocational training for the creative economy. It reflects a trend where local arts institutions increasingly serve as experiential learning hubs for secondary education.

Families with students interested in technical theater should check their school district's career and technical education (CTE) portals for similar upcoming workshops. Encouraging students to explore behind-the-scenes roles can open doors to diverse local internships and summer programs.

The takeaway

The event highlights that the performing arts industry relies as much on professional event management and marketing as it does on acting. Parents can encourage their students to keep a portfolio of their technical interests, whether in sound design, marketing, or scheduling.