Drafting Fundamentals for the Entertainment Classroom: A Process-Based Introduction to Hand Drafting, Vectorworks, and SketchUp guides students through a syllabus-formatted semester of integrated drafting concepts and skills. This book links beginner visualization practices with fundamental software knowledge through step-by-step exercises and examples. By presenting hand drafting and Vectorworks through incremental exercises, students not only gain an understanding of the tools used in drafting but also learn why the tools, practices, and standards exist in the first place. SketchUp, a user-friendly 3D modeling program, is integrated into the various exercises to help readers visualize concepts and begin modeling their own ideas. By the end of the book, students will understand drawing construction techniques, United States Institute for Theatre Technology (USITT)-recommended graphic standards, and the typical drawings created for entertainment design, preparing them to dive more deeply into the further complexities and opportunities of Vectorworks and SketchUp. Drafting Fundamentals for the Entertainment Classroom is written to complement a 14- or 15-week semester of an Entertainment Drafting course. The book’s format also provides structure for independent and self-directed study.

This memoir is “an emotional journey that will make you laugh, cry, and everything in between” (Wanda Sykes) as it explores comedian, writer, and producer Cristela Alonzo’s childhood as a first-generation Mexican American in Texas and her dreams to pursue a career in comedy. When Cristela Alonzo and her family lived as squatters in an abandoned diner, they only had two luxuries: a television and a radio. These became her pop cultural touchstones and a guiding light that ushered her forward. In Music to My Years, Cristela shares her experiences and struggles of being a first-generation American, her dreams of becoming a comedian, and how it feels to be a creator in a world that often minimizes people of color and women. Her stories range from the ridiculous—like the time she made her own tap shoes out of bottle caps or how the theme song of The Golden Girls landed her in the principal’s office—to the sobering moments, like how she turned to stand-up comedy to grieve the heartbreaking loss of her mother and how, years later, she’s committed to giving back to the community. Each significant moment of the book relates to a song, and the resulting playlist is deeply moving, resonant, and unforgettable. Music to My Years is “a timely reminder that regardless of economic status, race, or gender, love is the connection that ties together all humanity” (Booklist).

The HERO Effect is based on Kevin Brown's highly sought after keynote experience.In a fresh and entertaining style, Kevin shares ideas, strategies and principles that will inspire and equip readers to show up every day and make a positive difference. At the heart of Kevin's message is a simple, yet powerful philosophy for life that drives every thought, every action and ultimately every result we achieve both personally and professionally. Your team will be motivated to reach beyond what is required and do something remarkable!This book is designed to help individuals and organizations:Achieve greater results by eliminating "ordinary" thinking and mastering the habit of excellence.Own the moments that matter (and they all matter) by taking responsibility for their attitude, their actions and their results.Create meaningful relationships and deliver an extraordinary experience for every "customer" at work and at home.

Living the Audio Life details the aspects and procedures necessary for one to have a successful career in live entertainment sound. Encompassing a wide range of topics, the text clearly guides anyone interested in working in a position within the live entertainment audio field. The guide is broken into clearly defined sections, allowing the reader to easily navigate through various subjects including jobs, career, business, creativity, lifestyle, and travel. Real-world examples and documentation from the author and key industry experts allow the reader to gain insight into the essential practices that are helpful throughout a career. Additional in-depth interviews provide details of careers from industry veterans. Whether considering a career in live entertainment audio or just starting out, readers will find the resources for the key to success in audio. Students, those new to sound, and workers already within their careers can refer to the text as a guide throughout their journeys. With benefits to anyone interested in the audio field, Living the Audio Life is a key navigational resource for success.

Looking for a job in the theatre and entertainment industry can be daunting, especially when you are newly entering the work market. How do you take the skills and experience acquired through study and present them to prospective employers in the arts industry? Where does your search begin and what should you consider as you plan your future career steps? What is expected in a portfolio and what should you expect in an interview? This book provides straightforward strategies and practical exercises to turn anxiety into excitement and help you develop the job search skills and materials that will empower you to go after the job you want, and get it. If you are about to graduate or just ready to make a change, this book will teach you how to plan for your career as a designer, technician, or stage manager, and put your best professional persona forward when applying for jobs. Topics include resumes, cover letters, business cards and portfolios that will get you moved to the top of the pile; what to expect at an interview and how to answer any interview question; the how and why of negotiating for your worth; long term career planning, financial implications and much more. Filled with practical advice, examples of letters, resumes, CVs and portfolios, and with guidance from industry professionals, it will equip you to plan and succeed in your job search and career development in the entertainment industry.