Are you ready to dive into the world of theatre rigging and earn 12 hours of ETCP Renewal Credits? USITT has industry experts who are here to help, and they're on their way to Salem, MA to teach an Entry-Level Jay O. Glerum Rigging Masterclass!
Entry-level Track
The Entry Track spans two days and is intended for individuals looking to strengthen or broaden their foundational knowledge. It equips theatre educators and technicians with the skills to implement industry-standard safety protocols when working with theatre counterweight rigging systems for scenery and lighting, thereby promoting safety and operational excellence in educational and community theatre environments.
Curriculum to be covered:
- Safe Operation of Counterweight Fly Systems
- Basic Rigging Tools and Hardware
- How to Safely Rig and Fly Scenery
- Safety Procedures for Working at Heights and Using Ladders
- Basic Rules for Fall Protection
- Basic Maintenance of Rigging Systems
- Day to Day and Why Professional Inspections are Important
- Hands-on segments to include:
- Hardware – proper use and application
- Fly System – system identification, safe operation, and maintenance overview
This hands-on training allows attendees to apply theory in practice under the guidance of renowned trainers. Certificates will be issued for continuing education credit recognition.
When:
June 2-3, 2026
Where:
Salem State University, Sophia Gordon Center for Creative & Performing Arts, 352 Lafayette St., Salem, MA 01970
Member:
Early Rate through April 20: $495
Late Rate after April 20: $545
Non-Member:
Early Rate through April 20: $545
Late Rate after April 20: $595
Please note: If the class does not meet the minimum by May 10, it will be subject to cancellation.
Meet the Instructors:
Sandy Everett
Sandy Everett (they/them) is a Project Manager for On Services based in Washington, DC. Previously they have worked as an associate technical director at the University of Maryland and technical director at Allegheny College. Sandy received their ETCP Theater Rigging certification in December 2020. They are currently Co-Commissioner for the USITT Safety & Health Commission. ETCP certified rigging Theatre.
Latiana Gorzong
Latiana "LT" Gourzong (she/her), is from Ocean Township, NJ and proud pet parent to her all around amazing pup DJ. She is currently an Assistant Professor Adjunct of Technical Design and Production, and a Faculty Technical Director at David Geffen School of Drama at Yale.
She has worked in multiple states as a Technical Director, Associate/Assistant Technical Director, and overhire carpenter. Some companies include American Repertory Theater, Guthrie Theater, Center Theatre Group, Williamstown Theatre Festival, the Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey, Merry-Go-Round Playhouse, and Washington and Lee University. She has been involved in USITT since 2012, received the KM Fabrics Technical Production Award in 2019, and is currently a Co-Commissioner of the Technical Production Commission and an ETCP Certified Rigger (Theatre). Feel free to visit her website for more information.
Christopher (Topher) Morris
Topher is a theatre professor and the department Chair at Salem State University with over 30 years of experience in both academia and the professional theatre world. With a passion for creating immersive environments and enhancing the storytelling experience through design, they have contributed significantly to theatre productions as a set designer, sound designer, and technical director. He is also a Certified Theatrical Rigger through ETCP
Topher earned a BA in Theatre from the University of New Hampshire, followed by an MFA in Technical Production for Theatre from the Professional Theatre Training Program at the University of Delaware. His academic training laid the foundation for his multifaceted career, blending artistic creativity with technical expertise. He has worked for The Santa Fe Opera, American Players Theatre, Tibbits Opera House, The Chicago Flyhouse and others companies and theatres.
About Jay O. Glerum:
Our Jay O. Glerum Rigging Masterclasses were established in 2016 to honor Jay Glerum's passion for rigging safety and training. Glerum's commitment to safety has made these masterclasses possible and his legacy lives on through both the trainers, attendees, and their combined passion for continuing education and industry safety.