Shows
TECHnically SpeakingBarbizon’s Kearston Dillard-Scott and the USITT25 Lighting LabOn this week’s episode, we chatted with lighting designer and Barbizon Lighting Company Senior Sales Associate Kearston Dillard-Scott about the USITT25 Lighting Lab presented by the Lighting Design & Technology Commission in collaboration with Barbizon Lighting Company. Get insider knowledge of the lab, learn the positives of taking selling out of learning spaces, and join Kearston and her crew at the USITT25 Lighting Lab next week!Click here to view dates and times for the USITT25 Lighting Lab.Click here to view the full USITT25 schedule.TECHnically Speaking is a public se...
2025-02-281h 09TECHnically SpeakingDive Into Wenger's Rigging Guide for Performance Spaces with Wenger Consultant Partnership Manager and Systems Integrator Eric HussThis week we chatted with ETCP certified Rigger, Consultant Partnership Manager, and Systems Integrator at Wenger Corporation, Eric Huss. Tune into the episode to get the details on Wenger's reimagined and vastly comprehensive Rigging Guide for Performance Spaces, how venues can go beyond the minimum standards of ADA compliance, and how you can connect with the Wenger team at USITT25 in just a few weeks!Visit Wenger in Booth 625 during USITT25!Access Wenger's Rigging Guide for Performance Spaces.TECHnically Speaking is a public service of USITT, which seeks to have a...
2025-01-3136 minTECHnically SpeakingBreaking Down the BACKstage Exam with Dana TaylorIn this episode, we're breaking down the details of the BACKstage Exam with educator, USITT Board Member, and co-creator of the exam, Dana Taylor. Learn about how the exam came to be, how educators and students find mutual benefits within its purpose, and how you too can take part in this Basic and Comprehensive Knowledge Exam for High School Technical Theatre Students!Attend Dana's sessions at USITT25 to learn more about BACKstage: BACKstage Exam: Measuring HS Technical Theatre Success and BACKstage Plus: Rountable Discussions for Lights, Audio, Scenic Construction and Rigging.Resources mentioned...
2024-12-0635 minTECHnically SpeakingReflecting on the Last Year With Executive Director Laura Lee EverettWe chatted with Executive Director Laura Lee Everett a year and a half after her initial TECHnically Speaking interview to reflect on what she has seen, what she has experienced, what she has accomplished, and what she hopes USITT will accomplish in the coming years.TECHnically Speaking is a public service of USITT, which seeks to have a broad conversation on topics of interest to its members, but it is neither a legal interpretation nor a statement of Institute policy. The views expressed on this podcast by guests are their own and their appearance herein does not imply...
2024-11-071h 21TECHnically SpeakingUSITT24 Series with Tianxuan Chen — 2024 USITT Scene Design Award Winner Sponsored by Rose BrandThis week we're joined by scenic and lighting designer and 2024 winner of the USITT Scene Design Award sponsored by Rose Brand, Tianxuan Chen! We chatted with Tianxuan about her design process, using music as inspiration for design, how "inflatable tube men" can add a unique element to the stage, and more!Click here to learn more about Tianxuan and the USITT Scene Design Award sponsored by Rose Brand.Click here to nominate someone for one of our 2025 YDMT Awards including the USITT Scene Design Award sponsored by Rose Brand.TECHnically S...
2024-10-1126 minTECHnically SpeakingUSITT24 Series with Nancy Uffner — DAA in Education WinnerOn this week's episode, we chat with stage manager and educator Nancy Uffner, our 2024 Distinguished Achievement Award (DAA) winner for her work in Education.Join us as we ask Nancy about her career highlights, her approach to stage management, what advice she has for the next generation, and more!Click here to listen to the episode or search "TECHnically Speaking" wherever you get your podcasts.To learn more about Nancy and the DAA in Education, click here.Interested in registering for our Ken Vannice Electrical Workshop? Click here.
2024-09-1921 minTECHnically SpeakingUSITT24 Series with Annie Hennen — 2024 USITT Stage Management Award Winner Sponsored by Clear-Com Communications SystemsThis week we're joined by stage manager and 2024 winner of the USITT Stage Management Award sponsored by Clear-Com Communications Systems, Annie Hennen! We chatted with Annie about their stage management style, their time at the Santa Fe Opera, a holy grail backstage product they always have on them, and more!Click here to learn more about Annie and the USITT Stage Management Award sponsored by Clear-Com Communications Systems.TECHnically Speaking is a public service of USITT, which seeks to have a broad conversation on topics of interest to its members, but it is neither...
2024-08-1616 minTECHnically SpeakingUSITT24 Series with Tiara Jones — 2024 USITT Makeup Design Award Winner sponsored by Kryolan Professional Make-UpThis week we're joined by licensed cosmetologist, makeup artist, wig designer, and 2024 winner of the USITT Makeup Design Award sponsored by Kryolan Professional Make-Up, Tiara Jones!We chatted with Tiara about her work in fashion, makeup, and wig design, her holy grail makeup product, the challenges she's faced as a young professional, her creative process, and more!Click here to learn more about Tiara Jones and the USITT Makeup Design Award sponsored by Kryolan Professional Make-Up.TECHnically Speaking is a public service of USITT, which seeks to have a broad conversation on...
2024-08-0225 minTECHnically SpeakingUSITT24 Series with Anastasia Goodwin — 2024 Herbert D. Greggs Honor Award WinnerOn this week's episode, we spoke with costume designer, educator, and 2024 Herbert D. Greggs Honor Award winner, Anastasia Goodwin about her winning article, "The Costume History Classroom as Laboratory" which appeared in the Fall 2022 issue of our journal Theatre Design & Technology (TD&T).We chatted with Anastasia about her passion for education, the innovative teaching methods covered in her article, how these methods can enhance the learning experience for students, and what she hopes the costume history classroom continues to grow into.The Herbert D. Greggs Award (highest honor) and the Herbert D. Greggs Merit Award pro...
2024-07-2632 minTECHnically SpeakingSound Designer Kyle W. Jensen and the Power of MembershipHave you ever wondered how to get more out of your USITT Membership? Are you curious about opportunities like committee involvement and Board fellowship? Join us for this week's episode as we chat with sound designer, past Sherry Wagner-Henry Board Fellow, committee member, and donor Kyle. W. Jensen.Click here to learn more about Kyle and the Sherry Wagner-Henry Board Fellowship.Click here to learn more about donation funds and make your gift to the Institute todayOR text "GIVE" to 844-668-8854....
2024-07-1934 minTECHnically SpeakingMinisode: Meet Our Incoming Sherry Wagner-Henry Board Fellow Dani Ranisate!On this week's episode, we sat down with our incoming Sherry Wagner-Henry Board Fellow and scenic artist, Dani Ranisate. We chatted about her process of being selected for the fellowship, her work on forming a USITT Student Chapter, the connections she's made with our Board of Directors, and more! Help us welcome Dani to the Board!Click here to learn more about Dani and the Sherry Wagner-Henry Board Fellowship.Interested in sitting on our Board of Directors? Nominate yourself or a fellow Member by Aug. 15!TECHnically Speaking is a public s...
2024-06-2815 minTECHnically SpeakingUSITT24 Series with Xotchil Musser — 2024 YDMT Barbizon Lighting Company Jonathan Resnick Lighting Design Award WinnerOn this week's episode, we sat down with special guest Xotchil Musser — our 2024 Barbizon Lighting Company Jonathan Resnick Lighting Design Award winner, to talk about their design process, their study of the connection between lighting and mental health, advocacy for anti-racist theatre, and more.Click here to learn more about Xotchil Musser and the Barbizon Lighting Company Jonathan Resnick Lighting Design Award.TECHnically Speaking is a public service of USITT, which seeks to have a broad conversation on topics of interest to its members, but it is neither a legal interpretation nor a statement of...
2024-06-1219 minTECHnically SpeakingUSITT24 Series with Dawn Chiang — DAA in Lighting Design and Technology WinnerOn this week's episode, we chat with Lighting Designer Dawn Chiang, our 2024 Distinguished Achievement Award (DAA) winner for her work in Lighting Design and Technology. Join us as we ask Dawn about her creative process, impactful industry relationships, her work on the Great White Way, and more!To learn more about Dawn and the DAA for Lighting Design & Technology, click here.TECHnically Speaking is a public service of USITT, which seeks to have a broad conversation on topics of interest to its members, but it is neither a legal interpretation nor a s...
2024-06-0740 minTECHnically SpeakingMental Health Tools and Resources with Behind the Scenes*Trigger warning: This episode touches on the topics of mental health, suicide, substance abuse, bullying, and therapy. Please listen with caution.Over the past month, we partnered with the Behind the Scenes charity to share their resources on Mental Health First Aid, suicide prevention, bystander intervention, and more for Mental Health Awareness Month. On this week's episode, we're joined by Behind the Scenes' Executive Director, Lori Rubinstein to chat about Behind the Scenes' available industry resources, the unique mental pressures of the industry, how we can assist those in need of mental health support, and more.
2024-05-3121 minTECHnically SpeakingUSITT24 Series with William Lowe — 2024 Rising Star Award WinnerOn this week's episode, we're joined by theatrical and game audio designer and our 2024 Rising Star Award winner, William Lowe. Join us as we chat about the storytelling of sound, how keeping up with industry trends can be a full-time job, and working in the vast world of game audio design.To learn more about William and the Rising Star Award sponsored by LDI/ Live Design, click here.TECHnically Speaking is a public service of USITT, which seeks to have a broad conversation on topics of interest to its members, but it i...
2024-05-1744 minTECHnically SpeakingUSITT24 Series with Andrew Riedemann — 2024 YDMT Bernhard R. Works, Frederick A. Buerki Scenic Technology Award WinnerOn this week's episode, We sat down with special guest Andrew Riedemann— our 2024 Bernhard R. Works, Frederick A. Buerki Scenic Technology Award winner, to talk about the live entertainment industry, life in technical production, working overseas, and more!Click here to learn more about Andrew Riedemann and the Bernhard R. Works, Frederick A. Buerki Scenic Technology Award.TECHnically Speaking is a public service of USITT, which seeks to have a broad conversation on topics of interest to its members, but it is neither a legal interpretation nor a statement of Institute policy. The views ex...
2024-05-1029 minTECHnically SpeakingUSITT24 Series with Aholibama Castañeda González — 2024 YDMT KM Fabrics, Inc. Technical Production Award WinnerOn this week's episode, we sat down with special guest Aholibama Castañeda González — our 2024 KM Fabrics, Inc. Technical Production Award winner, to talk about the live entertainment industry, technical production in the festival world, what the award means to them, and what’s next in their career!Click here to learn more about Aholibama Castañeda González and the KM Fabrics, Inc. Technical Production Award.TECHnically Speaking is a public service of USITT, which seeks to have a broad conversation on topics of interest to its members, but it is neither a legal...
2024-05-0322 minTECHnically Speaking2024 Student Engagement Grant Winner Marisa LawrenceTECHnically Speaking is back with a brand new episode featuring 2024 Howard Vincent Kurtz Student Engagement Grant winner and interdisciplinary artist, Marisa Lawrence! In this episode we chat with Marisa about her research on integrative Costume Technology applications beyond the stage and screen, how she keeps up with the ever-evolving tech world, her work in stitching positions, game design, and other multimedia art forms, and more!Click here to learn more about Marisa Lawrence and the Howard Vincent Kurtz Student Engagement Grants.TECHnically Speaking is a public service of USITT, which seeks to have a...
2024-04-1916 minTECHnically SpeakingUSITT23 Series with Huhao Yang — 2023 YDMT Robert E. Cohen Sound Achievement Award WinnerThis week we're joined by USITT23 Robert E. Cohen Sound Achievement Award winner and sound designer, Huhao Yang. From designing in China during his undergraduate studies to his large-scale work with Toyota and Wyndham, we covered it all in this week’s episode!Click here to learn more about Huhao Yang and the Robert E. Cohen Sound Achievement Award.All episodes of our USITT23 series were recorded over the span of four days at USITT23 in St. Louis, March 15-18, 2023, in our Studio USITT booth on the Stage Expo floor.TECHnically Speaking is...
2023-12-2217 minTECHnically SpeakingUSITT23 Series with David Budries — 2023 DAA for Sound Design & Technology WinnerThis week we're joined by sound designer and 2023 Distinguished Achievement Award (DAA) for Sound Design & Technology winner, David Budries. We chatted about about his illustrious career in sound that he assures us is NOT over — even now during his retirement, his passion for the industry, where he gathers design inspiration, and how he paved his own path through personal mentorship.All episodes of our USITT23 series were recorded over the span of four days at USITT23 in St. Louis, March 15-18, 2023, in our Studio USITT booth on the Stage Expo floor.TECHnically Speaking is a public se...
2023-12-1423 minTECHnically SpeakingUSITT23 Series with Ying-Syuan Zeng — 2023 YDMT USITT Makeup Design Award sponsored by Kryolan Professional Make-Up WinnerOn this week’s episode, we’re joined by visual artist and 2023 USITT Makeup Design Award sponsored by Kryolan Professional Make-Up winner, Ying-Syuan Zeng. Hear us chat about her work in many facets of the industry including wigs, makeup, and scenic design, her creative process, favorite show to work on, and more!Click here to learn more about Ying-Syuan Zeng and the USITT Makeup Design Award sponsored by Kryolan Professional Make-Up.All episodes of our USITT23 series were recorded over the span of four days at USITT23 in St. Louis, March 15-18, 2023, in our Stud...
2023-11-1708 minTECHnically SpeakingUSITT23 Series with M.J. Hromek — 2023 YDMT Zelma H. Weisfeld Costume Design & Technology Award WinnerOn this week’s episode, we’re joined by costume designer and 2023 Zelma H. Weisfeld Costume Design & Technology Award winner, M.J. Hromek. Click below to learn about M.J’s creative process, her best advice for those new to the industry, and what this award win has meant to her.Click here to learn more about M.J. and the Zelma H. Weisfeld Costume Design & Technology Award.All episodes of our USITT23 series were recorded over the span of four days at USITT23 in St. Louis, March 15-18, 2023, in our Studio USITT booth on the...
2023-11-1011 minTECHnically SpeakingCreation of Student Engagement Grants with Howard Vincent KurtzOn this week’s episode, we’re joined by designer, educator, and costume commissioner Howard Vincent Kurtz to discuss the creation of Student Engagement Grants. These new grants encourage and support emerging theatre artists, and are funded by Kurtz each year to support our student members. Student Engagement Grants nominations close Nov. 9! Click here to learn more about Student Engagement Grants and to nominate.TECHnically Speaking is a public service of USITT, which seeks to have a broad conversation on topics of interest to its members, but it is neither a legal interpretation nor a st...
2023-11-0323 minTECHnically SpeakingUSITT23 Series with Kelsea Sibold — 2023 YDMT USITT Stage Management Award Sponsored by Clear-Com WinnerOn this week’s episode, we’re joined by stage manager and 2023 YDMT winner of the USITT Stage Management Award sponsored by Clear-Com, Kelsea Sibold.We chatted with Kelsea about her favorite events to stage manage, lessons learned from working with different teams, her best stage management advice, and more! Click here to learn more about Kelsea and the USITT Stage Management Award sponsored by Clear-Com.All episodes of our USITT23 series were recorded over the span of four days at USITT23 in St. Louis, March 15-18, 2023, in our Studio USITT booth on t...
2023-10-2014 minTECHnically SpeakingUSITT23 Series with Mia Irwin — 2023 YDMT USITT Scene Design Award Sponsored by Rose Brand WinnerOn this week’s episode we’re chatting with 2023 USITT Scene Design Award Sponsored by Rose Brand winner, Mia Irwin. We talked with Mia about her award win, her paint work on over 50 productions, her creative process, and more. Click here to learn more about Mia and the USITT Scene Design Award Sponsored by Rose Brand.All episodes of our USITT23 series were recorded over the span of four days at USITT23 in St. Louis, March 15-18, 2023, in our Studio USITT booth on the Stage Expo floor.TECHnically Speaking is a public serv...
2023-10-0611 minTECHnically SpeakingUSITT23 Series with Adam J. Thompson — 2023 Rising Star Award WinnerOn this week’s episode of TECHnically Speaking: USITT23 Series, we are joined by 2023 Rising Star Award winner and video designer Adam J. Thompson! We chatted about digital design, his passion for interactive and responsive design environments, and his work with The Deconstructive Theatre Project.Adam J. Thompson is a video and graphic designer working in in film, television, theatre, and digital narratives. He has worked previously as a creative director and a producer and is the Founding Artistic Director of The Deconstructive Theatre Project, a non-profit multimedia storytelling laboratory which he founded and led from 2006 - 2016.His wo...
2023-09-1524 minTECHnically SpeakingUSITT23 Series with Emma Dickerson — 2023 YDMT Barbara Matera Award for Costume Making WinnerOn this week’s episode we chatted with 2023 Barbara Matera Award for Costume Making winner, Emma Dickerson. We talked about her award win, her work for television, fil, and Broadway, what she loves about the build and design process, and more.Click here to learn more about Emma and the Barbara Matera Award for Costume Making.All episodes of our USITT23 series were recorded over the span of four days at USITT23 in St. Louis, March 15-18, 2023, in our Studio USITT booth on the Stage Expo floor.TECHnically Speaking is a public se...
2023-08-1809 minTECHnically SpeakingHow an Industry Book Comes to Life with Cary GillettThis week we’re getting an inside look at what it takes to create a book for the live entertainment industry. Stage manager, USITT Board member, and co-author of The Production Manager’s Toolkit Cary Gillett discusses how the book idea came to life, the thoughtful changes that came with the second edition, and why this book’s existence is important for the industry.Cary Gillett has worked as a production manager and stage manager in the Maryland/Washington DC area for over two decades. Cary is currently the General Manager of the DC branch of the event techno...
2023-07-2815 minTECHnically SpeakingUSITT23 Series with Mia Sara Haiman — 2023 YDMT KM Fabrics, Inc. Technical Production Award WinnerOn this week’s episode we chatted with 2023 YDMT KM Fabrics, Inc. Technical Production Award winner, Mia Sara Haiman! We discussed her work both regionally and abroad, industry challenges she’s faced, her biggest win, and more.Click here to learn more about Mia Sara Haiman and the YDMT KM Fabrics, Inc. Technical Production Award.All episodes of our USITT23 series were recorded over the span of four days at USITT23 in St. Louis, March 15-18, 2023, in our Studio USITT booth on the Stage Expo floor.TECHnically Speaking is a public service of U...
2023-06-3007 minTECHnically SpeakingUSITT23 Series with Elynmarie Kazle — 2023 Joel E. Rubin Founder's Award WinnerJoin us this week as we chat with our 2023 Joel E. Rubin Founder’s Award winner, Elynmarie Kazle. On this episode we discuss Elynmarie’s long history with USITT, her favorite programs she’s been a part of, and why winning this particular award is so special to her.Click here to learn more about Elynmarie and the Joel E. Rubin Founder's Award.All episodes of our USITT23 series were recorded over the span of four days at USITT23 in St. Louis, March 15-18, 2023, in our Studio USITT booth on the Stage Expo floor.
2023-06-1631 minTECHnically SpeakingUSITT23 Minisode with Epson & Show Sage*Please note that the audio from 00:36 to 1:10 is lower in volume. This is remedied at 1:10 and does not last for the entirety of the episode.*Join us this week for our exhibitor “minisode” featuring Ramzi Shakra of Epson and Jim Hinz of Show Sage — two of our USITT23 exhibitors! We discussed their perspectives on what makes USITT a great show for exhibitors, what keeps them coming back to USITT, and what new things we can expect from their companies. All episodes of our USITT23 series were recorded over the span of four days at USITT23 in St. Lo...
2023-06-0907 minTECHnically SpeakingUSITT23 Series with Judith Dolan — 2023 DAA for Education WinnerThis week we're joined by costume designer, director, Distinguished Professor of Theatre and Dance at UC San Diego, and our 2023 Distinguished Achievement Award (DAA) for education winner, Judith Dolan. We chatted about her award win, where her passion and style of teaching stems from, what her hopes for the industry are, and what's up next for the designer.All episodes of our USITT23 series were recorded over the span of four days at USITT23 in St. Louis, March 15-18, 2023, in our Studio USITT booth on the Stage Expo floor.TECHnically Speaking is a public service of...
2023-05-1914 minTECHnically SpeakingUSITT23 Series — Tyler DeLong Talks One Shot Training UpdatesOn this episode of our USITT23 series, we’re featuring 2023 exhibitor Tyler DeLong of DeLong Rigging Solutions. Click below to hear us chat about upcoming updates to their successful and free One Shot Training and get the lowdown on some of their current projectsClick here to experience One Shot Training.Click here to learn more about DeLong Rigging Solutions.All episodes of our USITT23 series were recorded over the span of four days at USITT23 in St. Louis, March 15-18, 2023, in our Studio USITT booth on the Stage Expo fl...
2023-05-1212 minTECHnically SpeakingUSITT23 Series — Jay Sheehan Talks TPMT’s Second EditionJoin us this week as Jay Sheehan talks about The Production Manager’s Toolkit’s second edition, co-written with production and stage manager, Cary Gillett. We chatted about its industry importance, what to expect from this new edition, and how USITT played a role in its creation. Click here to purchase The Production Manager's Toolkit!Click here to listen to our USITT22 series episode with Jay.All episodes of our USITT23 series were recorded over the span of four days at USITT23 in St. Louis, March 15-18, 2023, in our Studio USIT...
2023-04-2812 minTECHnically SpeakingUSITT23 Series with Laura Lee EverettTECHnically Speaking is back and we're kicking off our return with the first episode of our USITT23 series featuring our new Executive Director, Laura Lee Everett!Join us as Laura Lee talks about her vision for the Institute, ideas for membership, and how her relationship with USITT has grown over the last 10 years.To learn even more about Laura Lee, click here.All episodes of our USITT23 series were recorded over the span of four days at USITT23 in St. Louis, March 15-18, 2023, in our Studio USITT booth on the Stage Expo...
2023-04-2141 minTECHnically SpeakingUSITT23 Series TrailerStay Tuned! Our TECHnically Speaking podcast returns NEXT FRIDAY with our USITT23 series. These new episodes feature USITT Executive Director Laura Lee Everett, 2023 award winners, members, exhibitors, and more!
2023-04-1401 minTECHnically SpeakingExpand Your Industry Connections with Rachel StilesJoin us for this week’s episode with Rachel Stiles of Stage Creatives Network as we talk all things industry networking. Want to improve your resume? Need to perfect your pitch? Interested in more than one facet of the industry? We chatted about it all! Rachel Stiles is a union member, makeup/wig artist, dresser, and industry/career coach residing between Milwaukee and Chicago. She is passionate about creating a sustainable future for theatre careers and helping people navigate the industry for success. She recently launched Stage Creatives Network, a community networking site for theatre makers to meet ea...
2023-01-0636 minTECHnically SpeakingKim Welborn Talks Turning Trash Into OperaWe’re back! Join us for this week’s podcast episode where we’re joined by Opera in the Ozarks’ costume designer, Kim Welborn. We chatted with Kim about her work on Opera in the Ozarks' recent re-envisioned production of The Magic Flute. What makes it re-envisioned? Its eco-conscious spin to the storyline and costumes constructed one hundred percent using trash and recycled materials!Go to https://www.usitt.org/news/technically-speaking-kim-welborn-talks-turning-trash-opera to learn more about Opera in the Ozarks' production of The Magic Flute and see visuals of the costumes discussed during today's episode.Get to know...
2022-12-0250 minTECHnically SpeakingUSITT22 Series with Dick BlockThis podcast was recorded on the show floor of USITT22 at Studio USITT in partnership with AKG by Harman.On this week’s episode we sat down with Distinguished Achievement Award for Education winner, Dick Block.Dick Block began his career as an educator over four decades ago after receiving his degree at Northwestern University and has been privileged to have had amazing students over the years. His association with USITT began in 1975 and he has been active in the Institute ever since. He has been a member or chair on numerous panels, was instrumental in dev...
2022-09-3021 minTECHnically SpeakingUSITT22 Series with Michael HookerThis podcast was recorded on the show floor of USITT22 at Studio USITT in partnership with AKG by Harman.On this week’s episode we sat down with sound designer and 2022 Distinguished Achievement Award for Sound winner, Michael Hooker. We chatted with Michael about his long legacy and involvement with USITT, themed entertainment work, his experience as an educator, and much more.Michael K. Hooker has proudly been involved with USITT since attending his first conference in 1995. He has served as Sound Commissioner, chaired dozens of sessions and helped program the sound sessions for five Conferences. He...
2022-09-1614 minTECHnically SpeakingUSITT22 Series with YDMT Winner Zhang YuThis podcast was recorded on the show floor of USITT22 at Studio USITT in partnership with AKG by Harman.On this week’s episode, we sat down with 2022 YDMT winner of the Zelma H. Weisfeld Costume Design & Technology Award, Zhang Yu.Zhang Yu is a costume designer with professional experience in theater, opera, musical, dance and Chinese traditional opera. Deeply rooted in his diverse background and interest in bridging the gaps between design and fine art, Zhang Yu incorporates various intercultural elements and interdisciplinary techniques in many of his designs on stage. Acknowledging both the designer an...
2022-09-0215 minTECHnically SpeakingUSITT22 Series with YDMT Winner Kevin Lee McBeeThis podcast was recorded on the show floor of USITT22 at Studio USITT in partnership with AKG by Harman.On this week’s episode, we sat down with 2022 YDMT winner of the USITT Scene Design Award Sponsored by Rose Brand, Kevin Lee McBee.We chatted about his work on and off the traditional stage, both in theme parks and museums, as well as his design inspirations and industry passionsMore about Kevin: My name is Kevin Lee McBee and I am a story-focused designer with a passion for theater, film and long form television. I...
2022-08-1911 minTECHnically SpeakingJody Harris - USITT's Director of Sales and EventsThis week’s episode features USITT’s own Jody Harris! Jody joined the USITT team three years ago as our meeting planner and has most recently become our Director of Sales and Events. We chatted about her new role, future goals for the Institute, and what her growth within USITT means for our membership and ConferenceTECHnically Speaking is a public service of USITT, which seeks to have a broad conversation on topics of interest to its members, but it is neither a legal interpretation nor a statement of Institute policy. The views expressed on this podcast by gues...
2022-08-0508 minTECHnically SpeakingUSITT22 Series with YDMT Winner Cam CamdenThis podcast was recorded on the show floor of USITT22 at Studio USITT in partnership with AKG by Harman.On this week’s episode, we sat down with 2022 YDMT winner of the KM Fabrics Technical production Award, Cam Camden.At the time of recording, Cam was a fourth-year MFA Candidate in the Technical Design & Production Program at the newly renamed David Geffen School of Drama at Yale. Cam graduated this past spring.Cam is originally from Michigan and holds a BA in Theatre Arts with a focus in Technical Direction from the University of Mi...
2022-07-2915 minTECHnically SpeakingUSITT22 Series with YDMT Winner Denisse ChavezThis podcast was recorded on the show floor of USITT22 at Studio USITT in partnership with AKG by Harman.On this week’s episode, we sat down with 2022 YDMT winner of the 2022 Barbizon Lighting Company Jonathan Resnick Lighting Design Award, Denisse Chavez.Denisse received her B.A. in Theatre Arts from The University of the Incarnate Word in San Antonio, Texas. She has had the opportunity to work in several technical and design fields with The San Pedro Playhouse and the Magik Theatre in San Antonio and the Virginia Stage Company in Norfolk, Virginia. Her design wor...
2022-07-1509 minTECHnically SpeakingUSITT22 Series with Caitlyn GarrityThis podcast was recorded on the show floor of USITT22 at Studio USITT in partnership with AKG by Harman.On this week’s episode, we sat down with 2022 with creator of the upcoming USITT curated conversations web series, "Success Stories," Caitlyn Garrity.USITT is launching the curated conversation web series “Success Stories”, to begin in July. By focusing on theatre operation success stories, this series will uplift our fellow artists, and focus on a logical presentation of how they achieved their success. Not just what worked, but what didn’t as well. By seeing the process that the...
2022-07-0808 minTECHnically SpeakingUSITT22 Series with YDMT Winner Sarah BauchThis podcast was recorded on the show floor of USITT22 at Studio USITT in partnership with AKG by Harman.On this week’s episode, we sat down with 2022 YDMT winner of the USITT Stage Management Award Sarah Bauch.Sarah fell in love with stage management at fourteen-years-old when she stumbled on to the job at her high school and has never looked back since. She continued her stage management education earning a BA in Technical Theatre from East Stroudsburg University, where she became the winner of the 2017 and 2018 Stage Management Excellence Award for Region II at th...
2022-07-0110 minTECHnically SpeakingUSITT22 Series with YDMT Winner Riley LathromThis podcast was recorded on the show floor of USITT22 at Studio USITT in partnership with AKG by Harman.On this week’s episode, we sat down with 2022 YDMT winner of the Bernhard R. Works Master Crafts Award, Riley Lathrom.Riley is a graduating undergrad senior BFA Design Technology and Stage Management with an emphasis is Scenic Design at Missouri State University. Her credits include being the Scenic Designer for "Much Ado About Nothing", "Working: A Musical", and "These Shining Lives". She has been the Assistant Designer for "Cats" and "The Secret Garden". At Missouri State Un...
2022-06-2413 minTECHnically SpeakingUSITT22 Series with YDMT Winner Maggie NelsonThis podcast was recorded on the show floor of USITT22 at Studio USITT in partnership with AKG by Harman.On this week’s episode, we sat down with 2022 YDMT winner of the Richard Hay Undergraduate Scene Design Award, Maggie Nelson.Maggie has been scenic designing professionally for three years, and scenic painting for six. Her most recent work has been at Hope Summer Repertory Theatre’s 2021 outdoor season as Scenic Designer for A Year with Frog and Toad and The Importance of Being Earnest, Assistant to Remote Scenic Designers for The Mountaintop and Children of a Less...
2022-06-1709 minTECHnically SpeakingUSITT22 Series with YDMT Winner Emma CraigThis podcast was recorded on the show floor of USITT22 at Studio USITT in partnership with AKG by Harman.On this week’s episode, we sat down with 2022 YDMT Award winner for The Barbara Matera Award for Costume Making, Emma Craig.Emma started her education in the arts in middle school focusing on costuming and theater. In her undergraduate career she designed departmental productions and worked in the shop as a stitcher and wardrobe supervisor. She holds a BA degree from Western Washington University in Theater (Costume Design). In her final year she received an internship at...
2022-06-1012 minTECHnically SpeakingUSITT22 Series with Rising Star Winner Kristen MartinoThis podcast was recorded on the show floor of USITT22 at Studio USITT in partnership with AKG by Harman.On this week’s episode, we sat down with 2022 Rising Star Award winner, Kristen Martino to discuss her unique scenic design experiences from museum exhibits to circuses, her most challenging designs, and what her future looks like in the world of scenic design and live entertainment.The Rising Star Award, sponsored by LDI/Live Design, is given annually to a young professional at the beginning of their career. The award recognizes excellence and artistic achievement in scenic, li...
2022-05-2009 minTECHnically SpeakingUSITT22 Series with ESTA & USITT's Terminology Working GroupThis podcast was recorded on the show floor of USITT22 at Studio USITT in partnership with AKG by Harman.For this week’s episode, we sat down with members of ESTA and USITT’s Terminology Working Group to discuss the importance of their work, making positive industry change, and what surprises have shown themselves throughout the process. To learn more about the Terminology Working Group and to view the terms and documents, go to usitt.org/terms.TECHnically Speaking is a public service of USITT, which seeks to have a broad conversation on topics of interest to i...
2022-05-0613 minTECHnically SpeakingUSITT22 Minisode with Martin LightingThis podcast was recorded on the show floor of USITT22 at Studio USITT in partnership with AKG by Harman.On this week’s minisode, we sat down with Martin Lighting’s Brad Schiller to discuss the company’s newest offerings, what makes them stand out, and the future of lighting in the industry.TECHnically Speaking is a public service of USITT, which seeks to have a broad conversation on topics of interest to its members, but it is neither a legal interpretation nor a statement of Institute policy. The views expressed on this podcast by guests are th...
2022-04-2909 minTECHnically SpeakingUSITT22 Minisode with Renkus-HeinzThis podcast was recorded on the show floor of USITT22 at Studio USITT in partnership with AKG by Harman.On this week’s minisode, we sat down with Renkus-Heinz product manager, Brandon Heinz, to discuss new products, leadership evolution, and their future projects.TECHnically Speaking is a public service of USITT, which seeks to have a broad conversation on topics of interest to its members, but it is neither a legal interpretation nor a statement of Institute policy. The views expressed on this podcast by guests are their own and their appearance herein does not imply an...
2022-04-2204 minTECHnically SpeakingUSITT22 Series with DeLong Rigging SolutionsThis podcast was recorded on the show floor of USITT22 at Studio USITT in partnership with AKG by Harman.On this week’s episode, we sat down with Tyler DeLong of DeLong Rigging Solutions to chat about rigging safety, upcoming educational opportunities, and how their USITT22 sponsorship got their name out there in unexpected ways.TECHnically Speaking is a public service of USITT, which seeks to have a broad conversation on topics of interest to its members, but it is neither a legal interpretation nor a statement of Institute policy. The views expressed on this podcast by...
2022-04-1512 minTECHnically SpeakingUSITT22 Series with Marty Karp, Ramzi ShakraThis podcast was recorded on the show floor of USITT22 at Studio USITT in partnership with AKG by Harman.On this week’s episode, we sat down with Marty Karp of Show Sage LLC and Ramzi Shakra of Epson America Inc. to chat about Epson laser projectors, Dataton’s WATCHOUT™ software, and Show Sage’s line of Show*Server™ media servers and Show*Station™ production workstations.TECHnically Speaking is a public service of USITT, which seeks to have a broad conversation on topics of interest to its members, but it is neither a legal interpretation nor a statement...
2022-04-0813 minTECHnically SpeakingUSITT22 Series with disguise's Vickie ClaiborneThis podcast was recorded on the show floor of USITT22 at Studio USITT in partnership with AKG by HarmanOn today’s episode we’re chatting with Vickie Claiborne, Training Manager for Americas for disguise and covering all topics from disguise’s presence at USITT22 and their educational opportunities, to what makes them stand out from their industry competitors.TECHnically Speaking is a public service of USITT, which seeks to have a broad conversation on topics of interest to its members, but it is neither a legal interpretation nor a statement of Institute policy. The views expres...
2022-03-2515 minTECHnically SpeakingUSITT22 Series with Jay Sheehan — 2022 Wally Russell Professional Mentoring Award WinnerThis podcast was recorded on the show floor of USITT22 at Studio USITT in partnership with AKG by Harman.The Wally Russell Mentoring Award is presented by USITT in partnership with the Wally Russell Foundation to honor someone who embodies the guiding hand that Wally Russell provided to many young professionals.A 30-year resident of San Diego, Jay Sheehan oversees the production management and stage management areas for the School of Theatre, Television and Film at San Diego State University. Additionally, Jay created and leads the Certificate in Entertainment Management Program for the School. In addition...
2022-03-1816 minTECHnically SpeakingScenic and Costume Designer Christian Fleming Talks Upcoming World Stage DesignOn today's episode we’re welcoming scenic and costume designer Christian Fleming back to the podcast to chat about his upcoming participation in the 2022 World Stage Design exhibition as well as get some details about his selected design. Christian joined us previously on TECHnically Speaking to talk about his 2021 YDMT Award win for Scene design sponsored by Rose Brand.If you would like to listen to Christian’s previous TECHnically Speaking episode, go to www.spreaker.com/user/11279157/2021-ydmt-christian-fleming-podcast-fina. If you would like to learn more about Christian and his work, please visit www.christianfleming.design.Read...
2022-01-0718 minTECHnically SpeakingBreaking Down Disability in the IndustryWe sat down with playwright, librettist, and host of the Break a Leg! Disability in the Arts Podcast Nicole Zimmerer and sound designer and podcast producer Scott MacDonald to break down the realities of living and working with a disability in the industry.Nicole is a playwright and librettist with a deep-seated hatred of stairs. She has been a recipient of The Kennedy Center’s VSA Playwright Discovery Award and the Betty Z. Rose and Anne J. Exline Presidential Fellowship. She was a finalist for the Playwrights’ Center Core Apprenticeship program. She has had multiple productions in Houston, New...
2021-11-1243 minTECHnically SpeakingToni Sterling's Artistry in San AntonioThis week's episode of TECHnically Speaking features lighting designer Toni Sterling who recently lent her artistry to Opera San Antonio as the inaugural participant in the Pilot Fellowship for BIPOC Young designers. Read more about the Pilot Fellowship for BIPOC Young Designers at this link: www.usitt.org/news/usitt-opera-san-antonio-launch-pilot-fellowship-bipoc-designers.Toni Sterling is a freelance lighting designer from Atlanta, GA. She recently received her MFA at the University of Connecticut, specializing in lighting design. In 2015, she received her BFA at the University of West Georgia and her Certification in Lighting Technology at the Stage Craft Institute of Las...
2021-10-2920 minTECHnically SpeakingThe Pandemic's Role in Industry-Wide ChangeOn this week's episode we are joined by Director of Arts Administration; Associate Professor; and Director of Le Moyne College's Symphony Orchestra, Travis Newton. This summer, Travis penned an op-ed for Syracuse.com, "Covid Created New Opportunities, Lasting Change in Arts and Culture" where he discussed some of the many changes that have taken pace in the world of arts management and the live entertainment industry over the last year.We highly recommend reading Travis' article prior to listening to this week's episode as many of the topics mentioned in his piece will be discussed during...
2021-09-1730 minTECHnically Speaking2021 YDMT Series Feat. Costume Artist Annie UlrichOur 2021 YDMT winner podcast series comes to a close with costume artist Annie Ulrich, winner of the 2021 Barbara Matera Award for Costume Making.Annie fell into theatre during her undergraduate studies at Middlebury College in Vermont, where she graduated with a BA in Theatre and Studio Art in 2013. From there, she freelanced as a costume designer and took on the role of Assistant Shop Manager in the same costume shop at Middlebury. In the Spring of 2021, Annie completed her MFA in Theatre and Dance (Costume Technology) from the University of Texas at Austin.Keep up with...
2021-08-2025 minTECHnically Speaking2021 YDMT Series Feat. Lighting Designer Casey DukeThis week we’re continuing our 2021 YDMT Award winner podcast series with Casey Duke, winner of the 2021 Barbizon Lighting Company Jonathan Resnick Lighting Design Award.Casey is a theatrical lighting designer and MFA candidate in the Virginia Tech School of Performing Arts (anticipated 2022), and received her B.A. in Theatre from the Mississippi University for Women in 2014. For the past seven years, Casey has worked in theatres and theme park entertainment such as the Utah Shakespeare Festival, Goodspeed Musicals, and Busch Gardens Williamsburg.In this episode we chatted about Casey's award win, her work in theme park...
2021-07-3028 minTECHnically Speaking2021 YDMT Series Feat. Technical Director Francesca DeCiccoToday we're continuing our 2021 YDMT Award winner podcast series with technical director Francesca DeCicco Winner of the 2021 Bernhard R. Works, Frederick A. Buerki Scenic Technology Award. Francesca has just completed her third-year as an MFA Candidate in the Technical Design & Production Department at the Yale School of Drama.To keep up with Francesca and her work, visit her website at www.francescadecicco.com.TECHnically Speaking is a public service of USITT, which seeks to have a broad conversation on topics of interest to its members, but it is neither a legal interpretation nor a...
2021-07-1620 minTECHnically SpeakingOpen Broadcaster Software Takes Virtual Production to New HeightsOn this week's episode of TECHnically Speaking, we chatted with producer Suzanne Willett and stage manager Samantha Stone about their recent work on a virtual production titled, Westerwynne. The show was performed using Open Broadcaster Software (OBS) — a program which allows creators to marry live actors with virtual backgrounds for an immersive virtual experience. Go in-depth with us as we explore virtual production, OBS, and the challenges and successes that come with this rapidly growing performance platform.TECHnically Speaking is a public service of USITT, which seeks to have a broad conversation on topics of interest to its me...
2021-06-2419 minTECHnically SpeakingBrendan Bradley Talks Virtual ProductionThis week's episode focuses on something the industry has become quite familiar with over the past year — virtual production. We were joined by actor, writer, director, producer, and virtual production aficionado Brendan Bradley who spoke with us about his work on A One Act Festival in your Browser (WebXR) — a show produced, rehearsed, and performed entirely in web-based virtual reality, demonstrating several different modes and styles of fully-immersive, virtual performance with a customized toolkit, and user interface.Brendan established his own lab at New York University for integrating emerging technologies in live performance and supporting the next generation of multi-di...
2021-06-1130 minTECHnically Speaking2021 YDMT Series Feat. Stage Manager Shahzad KhanThis week we’re continuing our 2021 YDMT Award winner podcast series with Shahzad Khan, stage manager and winner of the USITT Stage Management Award.Shahzad has training and experience in new plays, musicals, opera, and dance. Originally from Los Angeles, he found his passion for stage management through early arts education and his excitement for high stakes live entertainment. Shahzad fuels his work by maintaining a collaborative work ethic that he aims to bring to any job or position.On this episode, we chatted about his award win, stage managing virtual productions, and looking at live enterta...
2021-05-2720 minTECHnically Speaking2021 YDMT Series Feat. Technical Supervisor & Production Manager Martin MontanerToday we're continuing our 2021 YDMT Award winner podcast series with production manager and winner of the 2021 KM Fabrics Technical Production Award, Martin Montaner!Martin is a Chilean Technical Supervisor and Production Manager with experience in international theatrical productions. Recently graduated with an MFA in Technical Design and Production from Yale University, his work as a manager has been focused on developing creative and collaborative solutions to technical and logistical challenges to some of the world’s most recognized contemporary directors.To keep up with Martin and his work visit his website at martinmontaner.comTE...
2021-05-1421 minTECHnically SpeakingDeLong Rigging Solutions Introduces One Shot TrainingOn this week's episode of TECHnically Speaking, father and son team Tyler and John DeLong of DeLong Rigging Solutions return to the podcast to talk about their newest offering — One Shot Training.This new training program offers easily digestible, educational rigging safety videos for free! Hear all about the program and how Tyler and John are continuing to grow their pandemic-born company.Links discussed in today's episode:DeLong Rigging Solutions: www.delongriggingsolutions.com/One Shot Training: www.delongriggingsolutions.com/one-shot-training/The Basics: www.delongriggingsolutions.com/shop/TECHnically Speaking is...
2021-04-3013 minTECHnically Speaking2021 YDMT Series Feat. Costume Designer Erin BarnettToday we’re continuing our 2021 YDMT Award Winner podcast series with costume designer Erin Barnett. Erin is this recipient of the 2021 Zelma H. Weisfeld Costume Design & Technology Award and is currently a third-year MFA Costume Design student at Indiana University. She graduated from Furman University in 2016 with a B.A. in Theatre Arts and Economics, and since then has worked as a costume designer and technician with Triad Stage, Jenny Wiley Theatre, GLOW Lyric Theatre, and Utah Festival Opera and Musical Theatre.If you’d like to keep up with Erin and her work, you can visit her webs...
2021-04-0911 minTECHnically Speaking2021 YDMT Series Feat. Scenic & Costume Designer Christian FlemingToday we’re kicking off our 2021 YDMT Award Winner podcast series with USITT Scene Design Award Sponsored by Rose Brand Winner, Christian Fleming. Christian is a freelance scenic and costume designer based in Manhattan. He holds an MFA in Scenic Design from Carnegie Mellon University School of Drama and recently had his work showcased at Design Showcase West at UCLA.If you’d like to keep up with Christian and his work, you can visit his website at christianfleming.design.
2021-04-0223 minTECHnically SpeakingVan Phillips and Howard Glickman Talk Theatre ConsultingFor the first time ever, the ASTC - USITT Venue Renovation Challenge will be presented live online, which has proven to be quite a new experience for the challenge — and the industry.On this week's episode, we chatted with President and Senior Consultant for Jones - Phillips Associates, LLC and USITT Fellow Van Phillips; and Auerbach Pollock Friedlander Associate Principal, Howard Glickman. Both Glickman and Phillips are longtime members of USITT and ASTC and have played large roles in the ASTC-USITT Renovation Challenge over the years.We discussed this year's renovation challenge and its intricacies, the im...
2021-03-2638 minTECHnically SpeakingGet to Know Our USITT21 Sponsors!USITT21 is only 3 days away and we can’t wait to see you all virtually! On this week's special edition episode, we asked a few our USITT21 sponsors tell you all about their companies, booths, and what you can expect to see from them on the virtual Expo floor.We want to extend a thank you to all of our USITT21 sponsors for helping to make this year's event a reality!If you have not yet registered for USITT21, you can do so by going to usitt.org/registration! TECHnically Speaking is a pu...
2021-03-0520 minTECHnically SpeakingUSITT 2021: The Inside ScoopThis week we sat down with our National Office Staff to discuss all things USITT21 Virtually Anywhere! Director of Education & Training, Christine Troscher; Sales Manager, Cody Hann; and Conference Planner Jody Harris gave the inside scoop on sessions, entertainment, education, and our virtual Stage Expo.To register for USITT21, go to usitt.org/registration.TECHnically Speaking is a public service of USITT, which seeks to have a broad conversation on topics of interest to its members, but it is neither a legal interpretation nor a statement of Institute policy. The views expressed on this podcast by...
2021-01-2920 minTECHnically SpeakingTouring with Lighting Designer Jenni PropstOur newest episode of TECHnically Speaking features North Carolina-based lighting designer Jenni Propst.Jenni has worked as a production manager, head electrician, and event manager for clients ranging from non-profit groups to large corporate events, national tours, and even NASCAR.She has toured domestically and internationally as a head electrician and lighting supervisor with Alonzo King LINES Ballet, Complexions Contemporary Ballet, and Charlotte Ballet.Jenni has worked with world renowned choreographers including Dwight Rhoden, Jean-Pierre Bonnefoux, Sasha Janes, Mark Diamond and David Ingram. Some of her design credits include Charlotte Ballet’s The Little Me...
2021-01-1527 minTECHnically SpeakingUSITT Community Conversations: Latinx ProfessionalsToday we have a special episode feature USITT’s community conversations. On Nov. 19 we held another successful Community Conversations webinar, this time presented by Latinx professionals Alejo Vietti, Regina Garcia, Jesse Portillo, and Tanya Orellana.If you’d like to attend a future community conversations webinar, please visit the webinars block under our education and training tab on our website at usitt.org.TECHnically Speaking is a public service of USITT, which seeks to have a broad conversation on topics of interest to its members, but it is neither a legal interpretation nor a statement of Inst...
2020-12-111h 17TECHnically SpeakingUSITT Community Conversations: Lighting DesignToday we have a special episode featuring USITT’s Community Conversations. On Oct. 30 we held our first community conversation with lighting designers Jim Streeter, Christina Watanabe, Adam Honore, and Hideaki Tsutsui as they discussed their careers, process, and what inspires them. If you weren't able to attend the free webinar, we've got you covered. TECHnically Speaking is a public service of USITT, which seeks to have a broad conversation on topics of interest to its members, but it is neither a legal interpretation nor a statement of Institute policy. The views expressed on this podcast by guests are th...
2020-11-1359 minTECHnically SpeakingDeLong Rigging Solutions: A Business Born During the PandemicToday we’re on the line with father-and-son duo John and Tyler DeLong of DeLong Rigging Solutions. Tyler and John are both ETCP certified Riggers who have extensive experience working in the live entertainment industry. Their company, DeLong Rigging Solutions, is a product of a great idea, a widespread industry need, and the pandemic. Tyler, like many other individuals in the entertainment industry, found himself suddenly without employment in the spring of 2020 due to Covid-19. Through his searches for the next project, he had the realization that there was a need in the entertainment industry for qu...
2020-10-3021 minTECHnically SpeakingA Conversation on Anti-Racist Stage Management with Narda E. Alcorn and Lisa PorterToday we’re on the line with stage managers, educators, and authors, Narda E. Alcorn and Lisa Porter where we’re discussing their new book, Stage Management Theory as a Guide to Practice: Cultivating a Creative Approach, their recent HowlRound essay, "We Commit to Anti-Racist Stage Management Education," and what we as designers, creators, stage managers, and industry professionals can do to make anti-racist theatres and entertainment a reality.Narda E. Alcorn is a Professor and Stage Manager who has worked on Broadway, Off-Broadway, regionally, and internationally. In 2019, Narda was appointed Chair of the Stage Management Program at Yale...
2020-10-0247 minTECHnically SpeakingLighting Designer Kathy Perkins Talks Industry Racism Then & NowIn the Summer 2020 edition of Theatre Design and Technology or TD&T, we explore racism in the theatre in an important piece by Taylor Leigh Lamb. In her article, Lamb interviews noted theatre historian, lighting designer, and USITT's 2020 Wally Russell Professional Mentoring Award recipient Kathy A. Perkins, who states emphatically, "There's no shortage of Black designers." Kathy wrote about Black designers in the American theatre in TD&T back in 1995. In the intervening quarter-century, has the awareness of Black designers increased?For this week's episode of TECHnically Speaking, we sat down with Kathy to discuss her 1995...
2020-09-1852 minTECHnically SpeakingA COVID-19 Discussion with Bryan HuneycuttWelcome to Technically Speaking, the official podcast of The United States Institute for Theatre Technology where we discuss the stories and work of our members as well as industry topics and happenings. I’m your host, Jenn, USITT’s Content Specialist and today we’re on the line with Bryan Huneycutt.Bryan Huneycutt has spent over 35 years in the Performing Arts. He is a Co-Founder of the Safety Advisors Forum-Live Entertainment (SAF-LE) and serves on the Board of Directors for the United States Institute for Theatre Technology, where he leads the Safety & Health Commission. Bryan is the President and CE...
2020-09-0430 minTECHnically SpeakingClint Clarke & The Most Magical Place on EarthToday we’re on the line with Clint C. Clarke. Clint has worn many professional hats so far in his career – from working in arenas, to the wireless team for Barack Obama’s inauguration, Clint now calls the Most Magical Place on Earth his home as he works as the Audio Designer for Disney Parks Live Entertainment. Clint is responsible for designing, installing and programming audio systems for the Walt Disney Company. Former Technical and Floor Crew Lead for the University of Florida he was responsible for technical operations during live events such as speaking engagements, concer...
2020-08-1421 minTECHnically SpeakingLighting Designer and Programmer Jess MoodyToday we’re on the line with Long island NY based lighting designer and programmer, Jess Moody. Her passion is for concert lighting, however, she also has extensive experience in lighting for dance and theatre.Jess currently works as the house lighting designer for the Patchogue Theatre for the Performing Arts as well as busking and designing for the Bay Street Theatre, the Till s Center, and Adelphi University. When we began our forum @ Four webinar series at the beginning of the pandemic, we had no idea just how many people we would reach. Th...
2020-07-3121 minTECHnically SpeakingTwo-Time 2020 YDMT Award Winner William YoungToday we’re on the line with William Young, the winner of not one but two 2020 YDMT awards The Barbara Matera Award in Costume Making Sponsored by Judy Adamson and The Master Craftsmanship Award Sponsored by Bernhard R. Works. William Young is a costume technician with skills ranging from millinery to tailoring. He earned his undergraduate degree in Plant Sciences from the University of Tennessee in Knoxville in addition to a second major in Theatre. After graduating from UT he began his professional career with the Utah Shakespeare Festival as a crafts artisan and went on to work as a cr...
2020-07-1019 minTECHnically Speaking2020 KM Fabrics, Inc. Technical Production Award Winner Dashiell MenardToday we’re on the line with The 2020 KM Fabrics, Inc. Technical Production Award winner Dashiell Menard.Dashiell is currently a Technical Designer at Showman fabricators in New Jersey where he does Technical design and construction drafting across the spectrum of the entertainment industry. There he works with a team of Technical Designers, Project Managers, and Lead Carpenters to realize theater, film, and TV studio sets, retail displays, and art installations for a variety of clients.Dashiell believes that Theater is storytelling, and all of us should be working together towards the goal of telling a st...
2020-06-1916 minTECHnically Speaking2020 Barbizon Lighting Jonathan Resnick Lighting Award Winner Jasmine LesaneToday we’re on the line with the 2020 Barbizon Lighting Company Jonathan Resnick Lighting Award winner Jasmine Lesane.Jasmine is a Lighting Designer & Director dedicated to realizing visions through innovative design solutions. A recent grad of Carnegie Mellon's School of Drama, Jasmine's experience extends across of all types visual design. Recent Lighting Design credits are School Girls; Or African Mean Girls Play (2019) at the Pittsburgh Public Theater, and Adding Machine: A Musical at the Pittsburgh Playhouse. She has also recently assisted on Season 2 of America’s Got Talent: The Champions. With the belief that light transcends genr...
2020-05-2915 minTECHnically Speaking2020 Zelma H. Weisfeld Costume Design & Technology Award winner Brooke Nicole KeslerToday we’re on the line with 2020 Zelma H. Weisfeld Costume Design & Technology Award winner and costume designer Brooke Nicole Kesler.Brooke is so honored to be the 2020 recipient of USITT's Zelma H. Weisfeld award! She is currently the Costume Assistant at The San Diego Opera, and is looking forward to graduating with her MFA in Design and Technology with an emphasis in Costume Design from San Diego State University this spring. Recent designs include: Red Bike (MOXIE), She Loves Me (SDSU), Girlfriend (Diversionary Theatre); and Roald Dahl’s James and the Giant Peach (SDSU). She has also work...
2020-05-2217 minTECHnically Speaking2020 USITT Award for Scene Design Sponsored by Rose Brand Winner Afsaneh AayaniToday we’re on the line with 2020 USITT Award for Scene Design Sponsored by Rose Brand winner Afsaneh Aayani. Afsaneh is a Houston-based scenic designer, puppeteer, puppet maker, mask maker, voice actress, and artist with over 15 years of industry experience. She began her artistic journey in Iran where she developed her skills as a puppeteer and puppet maker, performed as a voice actor on television, and built her foundation as an artist. She completed her Bachelors in Puppetry from the University of Art in Tehran and shortly thereafter and performed in festivals internationally including in China, Poland, and Sri Lanka.
2020-05-1520 minTECHnically Speaking2020 Robert E. Cohen Sound Achievement Award Winner Jeff Sherwood PodcastToday we’re on the line with sound designer and winner of the 2020 Robert E. Cohen Sound Achievement award, Jeff Sherwood. Jeff is finishing his final semester of the MFA Theatre Sound Design program at Purdue University where he studies under his mentor Richard K. Thomas. He is an emerging theatre artist specializing in sound design, music composition, and audio engineering. He strives to bring original and innovative ideas in collaboration with creative teams in the art of storytelling. Prior to his graduate studies, Jeff spent several years in New York City working at Off-Broadway theatres including The Public Theater, Th...
2020-05-0838 minTECHnically Speaking2020 Herbert D. Greggs Award Winner Caitlyn Garrity: A Conversation on Women+ in the IndustryWelcome to Technically Speaking, the official podcast of The United States Institute for Theatre Technology where we discuss the stories and work of our members as well as industry topics and happenings. I’m your host, Jenn, USITT’s Content Specialist and today we’re on the line with production designer and this year’s Herbert D. Greggs Award winner in the Honors category Caitlyn Garrity. A product of two years of research, Caitlyn’s winning article Building a Better Workplace highlights the negative experiences of women+ in their industry workplaces and how specific issues such discrimination, gender-based harassment, and lack of su...
2020-05-0124 minTECHnically Speaking2020 Rising Star Award Winner Joe KlugToday we’re on the line with 2020 Rising Star Award winner Joe Klug. The Rising Star Award sponsored by LDI/Live Design is given annually to a young professional at the beginning of their career. Joe is a Freelance Scenic Designer and currently the Assistant Professor of Scenic Design at University of Arizona. According to his artistic statement, His works centers around trying to re-engage with a theatre audience that is disconnected in this social media driven society. By exploring, shifting, and challenging the traditional relationship between Audience and Performer his work aims to shake the audience awake and engage th...
2020-04-2444 minTECHnically SpeakingThe Art of Career Change with Deb SherrerIn this episode, Deb Sherrer and I discuss her service on USITT's Board of Directors, advice for those in the live entertainment industry, the process of switching careers, and her most influential mentor to date.For more information on our three spring webinars, please visit https://www.usitt.org/education-training/usitt-webinars.For more information on USITT, please visit usitt.org.
2020-02-1307 minTECHnically SpeakingIntimacy Director Sarah Lozoff Part 2Technically Speaking is the official podcast of The United States Institute for Theatre Technology. Join us as we discuss the stories and work of our members as well as industry topics and happenings. to learn more about USITT, please visit us at usitt.org.
2020-01-2223 minTECHnically SpeakingIntimacy Director Sarah Lozoff Part 1Welcome to TECHnically Speaking, the official podcast of the United States Institute for Theatre Technology. Here we’ll discuss the stories and work of our members as well as industry topics and happenings. In this episode we're joined by intimacy director Sarah Lozoff. We discuss the importance of intimacy directors in the live entertainment industry as well as some of the most common misconceptions of the profession. If you'd like to learn more about USITT please visit us at usitt.org
2020-01-0613 min
PQ&A - USITT at the 2019 PQTodd RosenthalTodd Rosenthal (Set Designer) is a Chicago based set designer. Broadway: August Osage County (Tony Award), The Motherfucker with the Hat (Tony and Outer Critics Circle Nomination), Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf (Tony Award Best revival), Of Mice and Men, This is Our Youth, Fish in the Dark, Straight White Men, and the upcoming Linda Vista. Select Off Broadway premieres: Red Light Winter, Barrow Street Theater; Domesticated, Lincoln Center; Qualms, Playwrights Horizons; Close Up Space, Manhattan Theatre Club; Nice Fish, St. Ann’s Warehouse. Set designer for 6 years for the Big Apple Circus. International: August Osage County (National Theatre, Lond...
2019-06-0541 minPQ&A - USITT at the 2019 PQJosafath ReynosoJosafath Reynoso is a Mexican scenographer and Scenic Designer currently working in the US as a freelance designer and an Assistant Professor at the University of Richmond. He holds an MFA in Scenic Design from UT Knoxville and a BFA in Scenography from Escuela Nacional de Arte Teatral. Regional venues include: Triad Stage, Virginia Sage Company, Alice Jepson Theatre, Clarence Brown Theatre, Lexington Children’s Theatre, Donald Bedell Performance Hall, among others. International venues include: Teatro del Borde (Argentina), Escena 8 (Venezuela), KCDC (Israel), Teatro Salvador Novo (Mexico), Industrial Palace (Czech Republic), among others.Winner of the 2017 Gold Medal at...
2019-06-0543 minPQ&A - USITT at the 2019 PQKinetic LightAlice SheppardAlice Sheppard took her first dance class in order to make good on a dare; she loved moving so much that she resigned her academic professorship in order to begin a career in dance. She studied ballet and modern with Kitty Lunn and made her debut with Infinity Dance Theater. After an apprenticeship, Alice joined AXIS Dance Company where she toured nationally and taught in the company’s education and outreach programs.Since becoming an independent artist, Alice has danced in projects with Ballet Cymru, GDance, and Marc Brew in the United Kingdom. In the Un...
2019-06-051h 21
Teaching DramaEpisode 2 - USITTWelcome to the Teaching Drama Podcast!
In Episode 2, "USITT," Kyle A. Thomas and Alana Yurczyk talk about their trip to USITT, the ins and outs of working in the educational and professional arenas, and the BIG QUESTION is posed to folks attending USITT.
Check out our website for more information and content on the show: http://teachingdrama.home.blog
Acknowledgments:
Music: “Two Minutes on the Isle of Ska” by texasradiofish (c) copyright 2019 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution Noncommercial (3.0) license; http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/texasradiofish/59216, ft: Copperhead.
2019-03-2650 min
The Cue - A Show Control PodcastSPECIAL EPISODE: USITT Special – By Dave MickeyTOPICS: • Dave Mickey interviews USITT participants. LINKS: *USITT Founded in 1960, USITT is an organization to promote dialogue, research, and learning among practitioners of theatre design and technology. Today it has grown to include members...
2016-05-0400 min