UConn is among the country's premier schools, for both the undergraduate and graduate levels, in design and technical theatre. As well as teaching here at the university, our faculty designers and technical directors are active working professionals (some include members of the United Scenic Artists Local #829). They have worked and continue to work On- and Off-Broadway, in film & television, and at some of our country's most prestigious regional repertory theatres and opera house. In addition, the University's physical location, close to New York City, allows for an active interchange with many other exciting designers who live and work in the area. Both undergraduate and graduate students benefit from a combination of outstanding classroom instruction and practical work with the productions of the Connecticut Repertory Theatre. As such, student designers and technical directors have the opportunity to work both with faculty designers and TDs and other guest professionals from New York, Chicago and other centers of regional theatre.
Why UConn for Design & Tech?
ON STAGE names UConn Top Five Design & Tech Program in the Nation!
1. Proximity to NYC and some of the best regional theatres in the country: Hartford Stage (Hartford), American Repertory Theatre (Boston), Trinity Rep (Providence), Goodspeed Opera House (Middletown). Assisting and working with high-profile faculty designers and others at those theatres and in NYC. Comfort and knowledge about NYC before graduation. Free tickets to shows.
2. Designing for professional Guest Directors from NYC and two to three imported equity actors on most mainstage shows, mixed with grad and undergrad actors. Offers a professional experience in a safe setting with Connecticut Repertory Theatre.
3. A small department in a large university with an international population and connections.
4. A large population of well-connected former students in NYC who help with integration into the business of theatre, film, and television.
5. An academic connection to the Hartford Stage, and TheatreWorks offering internships and chances to see free performances.
6. In addition to Professional Faculty, a large Professional Support Staff for Connecticut Repertory Theatre, who teach hands-on skills.
Production Manager – Bobby Copley
Associate Technical Director – John Parmelee
Costume Shop Manager – Susan Tolis
Production Electrician – Mike Demers
Properties Manager – Gino Costabile
Scenic Charge Artist – Daniela Weiser
Sound Supervisor – Jake Neighbors
Puppetry Arts Technical Supervisor – Matt Sorensen
Managing Director – Michelle Polgar
Company/House Manager – Morgan Lee
Sales Office Manager – Annie Suite
Equity Production Stage Manager – Alison Savino