Faculty
Helenio Talato
1. Applicants
The course is open to a maximum of 5 candidates of any nationality who have reached the age of 18 at the time of submitting the application. This is an exclusive educational opportunity designed to ensure intensive, personalized, and high-quality training.
2. Course Objectives
The course focuses on the study and techniques involved in designing a performance in relation to stage space. Topics include: Workplace safety regulations (Legislative Decree 81/08, Ministerial Decree 10/03/98), history of stagecraft, the different working areas within a theatre, technical management of stage sets during rehearsals and performances, set assembly and dismantling, maintenance, storage, technical support during touring shows and restoration of stage equipment.
The professional figure of a stage crew technician is employed in theatres, opera houses, touring companies, as well as in television, concerts, cinema, trade shows, and fashion events. The learning process is enriched with multiple work experience periods within the productions of Teatro Coccia.
The course is designed to accommodate potential academic or professional commitments and offers participants free access to all Teatro Coccia productions, for a full 360° immersion in the operatic world.
3. Course Period and Format
The course will take place at Teatro Coccia in Novara and will be held over several non-consecutive periods from JANUARY 2027 to DECEMBER 2027. Lessons will be scheduled in line with the Theatre’s calendar, with particular attention to musical theatre productions and in coordination with other courses.
In the event of a force majeure interruption, theoretical lessons will continue via online distance learning, while practical sessions and work experience will be postponed.
At the end of the course, a certificate of attendance will be issued, provided the conditions outlined in point 8 of this call are met. The most outstanding students may be selected for future collaborations or recommended for professional opportunities. The Academy maintains a strong relationship with its alumni, offering debut opportunities, concerts, and referrals.
Attendance is mandatory for at least 80% of the course. This level of attendance is also required for participation in any theatre productions. Any circumstances that may partially hinder participation in lessons or productions must be communicated to the Academy’s administration.
4. Curriculum
The course will consist of 100 hours of theoretical and practical lessons and 70 days of work experience. The curriculum is designed to build practical confidence in the techniques taught during the lessons, ensuring participants are fully prepared to be actively involved in 2027 season productions.
Work experience days, embedded within the productions of Teatro Coccia, represent a crucial component of the training and are mandatory for all participants. Professionalism, dedication, and flexibility are essential, as production schedules often involve non-conventional hours.
The instructor will select students deemed suitable for integration into scheduled productions. The nature of the engagement and any additional conditions will be defined at the time of role and task assignment.
The lesson schedule may be subject to change; any updates will be communicated to students in a timely manner.
5. Applications
Requirements:
No specific academic qualifications are required, but an excellent knowledge of the Italian language is preferred.
To apply, please send the following documents by email (subject: “AMO – CORSO MACCHINISTA”) to the address provided below:
- This completed and initialed application notice;
- Completed Application Form (Annex A) with front/back copy of ID and tax code;
Note: Foreign candidates must also include valid residency documents or proof of renewal.; - A detailed artistic and academic résumé;
- Proof of payment of the €40.00 registration fee (incl. VAT) via bank transfer to:
Fondazione Teatro Carlo Coccia di Novara
IBAN: IT80 X 05034 10100 000000042424
Note: All bank fees are the responsibility of the applicant.
E-mail address: segreteria.amo@fondazioneteatrococcia.it
IMPORTANT: All files must be sent in PDF format only (NO PHOTOS), complete and correct. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Students who have already attended one academic year of the course and wish to enroll again must also submit the required documents listed in points 1, 2, 3 and 5. They are not required to resend video materials, but they must include a new payment receipt for the €40.00 registration fee. The participation fee for students admitted to subsequent years will remain the same as in their first year.
6. Interview and Selection
Applicants deemed suitable based on the evaluation of their résumé by the Instructor will be admitted to an in-person or online interview which will take place at Teatro Coccia in Novara in late October 2026.
7. Deadlines
- Applications (as per point 5) must be submitted by October 10, 2026 at 24:00 GMT+1, via email segreteria.amo@fondazioneteatrococcia.it
- By October 17, 2026, selected candidates will be informed by email of the date and time of their interview;
- After the interviews, the list of admitted candidates will be announced.
8. Costs and Participation Conditions
The annual course fee for admitted students is €1,200.00 (VAT included). The fee must be paid in 2 installments of €600.00 each via bank transfer to:
Fondazione Teatro Carlo Coccia di Novara
IBAN: IT80 X 05034 10100 000000042424
Send proof of payment to: segreteria.amo@fondazioneteatrococcia.it
- First installment deadline: November 15, 2026
- Second installment deadline: January 15, 2027
Failure to meet payment deadlines will result in termination of course attendance.
Thanks to the Academy’s agreements, students can access reduced-price meals by presenting specific coupons at food service venues located near the Theatre.