The DeLong Foundation Announces First Round of 2025–2026 Technical Theatre Training Programs Through The DeLong Academy

Bloomington, IN  — The DeLong Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing affordable, high-quality training for live event technicians worldwide, proudly unveils the first wave of courses in its 2025–2026 educational series through The DeLong Academy, the Foundation’s flagship training initiative.

The DeLong Academy is committed to advancing education in technical theatre and live event production, offering hands-on and online training, workshops, and masterclasses for students, professors, K–12 educators, and industry professionals. These programs serve as a hub for safety, innovation, and professional development across the entertainment and events industry.

First Announced Courses

Intro to Rigging Math
Online — November 7, 2025
An introduction to the mathematical principles behind rigging. Participants learn to apply geometry, fractions, and inverse relationships to calculate loads, bridle lengths, and mechanical advantages in rigging systems.

Advanced Rigging Math
Online — December 12, 2025
A continuation of Intro to Rigging Math, applying advanced calculations to complex systems such as H-bridles, beam loading, and multi-leg bridles.

Motor Class with David Carmack
In-Person, Bloomington, IN — January 9–11, 2026
A first-of-its-kind hands-on and theoretical training program offering an Enhanced Assessed Certificate to verify technical skills and understanding of industry safety standards.

OSHA 10
In-Person, Bloomington, IN — January 13–14, 2026
An introduction to OSHA’s worker safety standards tailored to the entertainment industry. Participants learn practical applications of OSHA regulations in live event and theatrical settings.

Teaching Counterweight Rigging
In-Person, Bloomington, IN — February 1, 2026
A one-day seminar designed for educators, focusing on safe instruction and operation of modern counterweight systems within schools and theatres.

Lead Rigger Training: Theatre
Online — February 12–13, 2026
An in-depth exploration of the responsibilities of a lead rigger in theatre environments. The course covers force vectors, batten loading, counterweight systems, ANSI standards, and best practices — ideal for those pursuing ETCP certification.

Rigging Standards
Online — April 17, 2026
A comprehensive overview of the codes, standards, and regulations governing theatrical rigging. Participants will learn how to locate, interpret, and apply key rigging standards in their work.

Rigging Inspection Training
In-Person, Bloomington, IN — May 22, 2026
A hands-on course covering the fundamentals of an ANSI E1.47-compliant rigging inspection, including inspector qualifications, inspection frequency, report preparation, and system-specific evaluations (fire curtains, counterweights, static systems).

More to Come

These courses represent only the first phase of The DeLong Academy’s 2025–2026 offerings. The next phase of announcements will expand to include all crafts within technical theatre and live event production — including lighting, audio, video, scenic, wardrobe, stage management, and more. The Academy’s upcoming programs will continue to provide both online and in-person opportunities designed to support the professional growth of technicians and educators at every level.

About The DeLong Foundation

The DeLong Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Bloomington, Indiana, dedicated to advancing technical theatre and live event safety through accessible, affordable, and high-quality education. The Foundation’s mission is to empower technicians, educators, and industry professionals worldwide through innovative training, research, and collaboration.

For registration and more information, visit here.