Residence: New York City, NY
Current project(s): Designing lights for Poetry And Dream with HOWL Ensemble, The Subtle Body at 59E59, associate lighting design with Jane Cox on The Ambassador at BAM and in LA.
Most notable achievements: I design lighting in a continuing collaboration with the Peabody Essex Museum in Salem, MA, where we curate musical events in the galleries of the museum. Two years ago, I designed a circus-themed, practical-based tent show for the national tour of the band, The Music Tapes. Both of these collaborations are still developing, which is very exciting for me.
When I started in this industry: I began an MFA at Boston University in 2008, which was the first time I started doing theatre as more than a hobby. I graduated in 2011 and moved to NYC that fall.
The Music TapesHow I got into this industry: I did theatre and other performing arts growing up. My freshman year at Harvard, I agreed to sing in the chorus of a Gilbert and Sullivan show. I volunteered to help out with the lighting, and pretty soon I was hooked. Although I was a classics and linguistics major, I spent a great deal of my time doing theatre, so much so that my advisors sat me down my senior spring and asked me if I had seriously considered art school.
Influences: When I was an undergrad, there were beautiful photos of Robert Wilson/Jennifer Tipton collaborations hanging in the lobby of the American Repertory Theatre. I was, and still am, totally captivated by them. I am also very influenced by Jane Cox, who has mentored me in countless ways.
Worst advice I’ve ever heard: You can’t have frontlight in dance.
Best advice I’ve ever heard: “Stop talking; show.” –Mark Stanley
The SevenMy favorite thing about the production industry: Every day is different, and I get to meet the most interesting people.
Favorite design/programming/technical trick: I love electrifying scenery and especially props. It can often add another layer of storytelling.
Plans for the future: Creating meaningful work with collaborators who challenge and inspire me. I’d also love to do musicals on Broadway.
Other interests/side gigs: I’ve played violin since I was four years old. I also teach riflery at an all girls camp.
Awards, honors: 2011 USITT Barbizon Lighting Design Award, 2009 Hangar Theatre Lab, and I just got my acceptance letter for USA 829.