The second hour Building Trades class, taught by tech ed teacher Bryan Evans, has been building storage shelves backstage in the auditorium.
“I was approached by Mr. Ruetten and Ms. Lane about a storage issue backstage in the auditorium. They are wanting to utilize as much space as possible to store props and equipment. The solution was to build two separate mezzanines to help get things that aren’t being used often off of the ground,” Evans said. “I decided to do the auditorium project with my students because of the different steps it takes to complete a mezzanine. The layout process, material lists, cut lists, safety guidelines, using a laser level, floor framing, floor sheathing, and understanding weight distribution.”
The mezzanines will be used to store various props as well as any other miscellaneous things that are typically in the way. This will not only declutter the wings of the stage for theater productions, but it will also be easier to navigate during other programs being held in the auditorium.
“Mr. Ruetten and I wanted the backstage area to be a space where we could store things off the ground. This would make it easier to move backstage during shows and concerts as well,” Choir Director Abbe Lane said.
The class has been working on the shelves for about two and a half weeks. With certain protocols and curriculums to follow, the project can’t be rushed.
“With 14 students in the class, we have to be able to share the power tools so everyone gets a chance. Also, I have been in communication with the band and choir departments and we’ve been working around their schedules to accommodate for concerts and plays,” Evans said.
Junior Alan Rodriguez helped to build the mezzanines, and said he enjoyed the experience.
“First we had to obviously learn how to use all the different tools and equipment in the woods shop, but the actual building of it was pretty fun,” Rodriguez said. “I would say my favorite part was cutting the wood with the big saws.”
The mezzanines are a huge addition to the backstage of the auditorium, helping to declutter the backstage even before the project is entirely finished. The class plans to finish the mezzanines by the end of the semester, if not earlier.
“I want to say a huge thank you to Mr. Evans and his second hour Building Trades class for their work. The shelves are a great addition to the backstage. It makes it really feel like a professional theater!” Lane said.
