When: Nov. 16-17, 2026, 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Where: Chenery Auditorium, 714 S Westnedge Ave, Kalamazoo, MI 49007
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 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.
Rates:
Member Rates:
Early Price through Oct. 4: $495
Late Price: $545
Non-Member Rates:
Early Price through Oct. 4: $545
Late Price: $595
Registration closes on Nov. 9, 2026, 8:00 a.m. EST.
DISCLAIMER: This class is contingent upon a minimum of 16 attendees and may be cancelled if this minimum is not met. Please do not book flights and/or hotels that cannot be canceled without a cancellation fee until we know that the class minimum has been met.
If the class does not meet the minimum by Oct. 26, it will be subject to cancellation.
Travel and hotel accommodations are not included in this rate.
Meet the Instructors:
Shane Kelly
Shane Kelly is Professor and Head of The Theatre Technology Program at The Theatre School at DePaul University. He is the co-author (with Jay O. Glerum) of the 4th edition of the Stage Rigging Handbook. Shane has been rigging for 25 years and conducts inspections, installations, specification of systems, and safety training via his company Shane Kelly Rigging.
Shane is an ETCP Certified Rigger (Arena and Theatre), ETCP Recognized Trainer, OSHA Authorized General Industry Outreach Trainer, and American Red Cross Authorized Training Provider.
Shane’s professional practice and research is focused on sustainability and ecoscenograhy. He worked as a producer, production manager, technical director, and rigger and was the Associate Director of Education for SpaceLab at the 2015 Prague Quadrennial and Technical Director for Six Acts at the 2011 Prague Quadrennial Scenofest.
Bridget Solini
Specializing in rigging and project management for over 20 years in the performing arts industry, Bridget uses that experience to facilitate the successful implementation of creative solutions in unique venues worldwide.
By focusing on the intertwined relationships within our industry supported by a strong company culture, Bridget has been able to put her BFA and MBA to good use, bringing many notable projects to a successful completion around the world over the last two decades.
Bridget is an ETCP Certified Rigger (Theater), an ETCP Recognized Trainer, holds an OSHA 30-Hour Construction Safety certification, and is a member of IATSE Local 4.
Her passions outside of work are hiking, rock climbing, and experiencing as much of the world as possible.
