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The BACKstage Exam is a joint endeavor of the Educational Theatre Association (EdTA) and the United States Institute for Theatre Technology (USITT).

This digital test defines and assesses the basic knowledge and skills an entry-level entertainment technician should have when entering the workforce or a higher education training program.

The exam and supporting materials provide curricular guidance and support for teachers seeking to increase the scope and depth of their programs, including the means for making informed decisions on the allocation of instructional time and focus, based on an analysis of student performance data.

The test bank includes 450 questions, while the test itself consists of 100 randomized questions. There is a 90-minute time limit, and the test must be completed in one sitting.

BACKstage Exam items were created by a pool of technical theatre experts and were written to suit high school technical theatre students. Theatre disciplines covered include rigging, safety, scenic and construction, venue, audio, costuming and wardrobe, lighting and electric, and personnel.

Starting in 2020, BACKstage was piloted to 181 high schools and involved over 1600 students.

Target audiences include those students considered “program completers” from Career and Technical Education programs of study, as well as non-CTE students having had immersive instructional experience in technical theatre for a (recommended) period of at least two years. 

  

Learn more about registering for the BACKstage Exam here.

 

Student Resources: View resources and study guides for preparing for the BACKstage exam here. 

 

Learn More About the 2019-2020 Backstage Exam Field Test

The BACKstage exam is made possible through the generosity of the following sponsors.

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Student Resources to Support BACKstage

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