Description #
Stagecast Creator is a visual rule-based programming environment where students create simulations and games by demonstrating behaviors. Instead of writing code, users show the system what should happen using “before” and “after” scenes.
History #
Stagecast Creator originated in the 1990s as a project within Apple by Allen Cypher and David Smith. It was commercialized independently and became popular in educational settings as a tool for teaching logic, systems thinking, and computational modeling.
Hello World Code #
Stagecast doesn’t use text-based code. A “Hello World” example would involve:
- Creating a character (e.g., a cat)
- Showing a behavior: when clicked, the cat says “Hello, World!”
Rules are demonstrated visually by modifying the stage during “teaching mode.”
How to Run #
Option 1: Online
Legacy software — not officially hosted
Demo videos available: https://vimeo.com/5893686
Option 2: Local
- No official downloads (discontinued), but archived copies may be found
- Compatible with older Windows/macOS systems
Key Concepts #
- Rule-based programming by demonstration
- No typing required
- Drag-and-drop scenes and objects
- Event and condition triggers
- Strong support for logic and modeling
- Used in systems thinking and educational simulations
- Object behaviors taught via animation
- Accessible to young learners
- Encourages experimentation and creativity
- Legacy tool with lasting educational influence
Try It Online #
No live runner, but you can view it in action:
Stagecast Demo on Vimeo
Fun Facts #
- A spin-off from Apple’s “Programming by Example” research
- Helped pioneer “end-user programming” concepts
- Used in the early 2000s in science and math classrooms
Resources #
Official site (archived)
Docs or tutorial
[GitHub or interpreter](Not open source)
Community or learning resources
