Professional Training Program for Properties Technicians

Overview
The properties technician Professional Training Program is designed for emerging properties craftspeople who wish to develop new skills under the mentorship of industry professionals.
Participants will practice props construction, evaluate building methods and repurposing props with sustainability a strong consideration as a theatrical practice.
The Summer Opera 2026 program runs alongside the Professional Training Program, giving participants opportunities to learn about the importance of props in rehearsal and performance, and practice constructing props for the program.
Description
Under the mentorship and guidance of faculty and the Banff Centre props team, participants will:
- Develop skills in props construction, selection, modification.
- Evaluate building methods and approaches to props construction, to best suit the medium: stage/ film/ workshop/ rehearsal.
- Support the Opera Workshops with pulling and modifying props, some building, running show props alongside performers and stage managers.
- Practice reading Opera scores and scripts for insights on props.
- Roundtable discussion with a director about the importance of props in Opera and other Performing Arts, both in rehearsals and performances, and how to performer proof props!
Requirements
Please consider applying if one or more of the following applies to you:
- Properties is your chosen profession, and you recognize this program’s objectives will complement your existing skills and present you new ways of working and approaching props.
- The high skill level of the faculty and staff will provide you with great learning experience, and contacts for your future career.
- You are a recent graduate or graduating from a post-secondary institution with the desire to pursue a career that includes props; and this Professional Training Program is the next step towards this career.
Residency Eligibility
Residency Experience Summary
Application Information
- Resume
- Cover Letter
- Portfolio
What's Included
- Meal Plan
- Accommodation
- Studio Space
- Showcase Your Work
- Group Seminars/Workshops
- Paul D. Fleck Library and Archives
- Campus Facilities
Scholarships
We are pleased to offer a range of scholarships to support participants in our programs. Details are outlined below:
-
Banff Centre Arts Scholarship: All arts participants receive a scholarship covering 100% of tuition and 25% of meal plan and accommodation costs, made possible through generous endowments and donations.
-
Canadian Indigenous Scholarship: Canadian Indigenous applicants receive support covering 100% of tuition, meal plan and accommodation costs.
To be considered for Banff Centre scholarships, please complete the Financial Aid section when uploading your supporting materials.