Working on  Urinetown  has always been meaningful. After the pandemic, it felt even more urgent. This was my third time designing the show. After living through a time when “essential” workers risked their lives, the themes of class struggle and corporate greed felt sharper. This time, I wanted to create a world that was darker and more industrial. I aimed to reflect a dystopia that is not too far from our reality. Inspirations and Collaborations In collaboration with our director, Dr. Joy Powell, we drew inspiration from: Blade Runner Tim Burton’s Gotham City German Expressionist films like  Metropolis We wanted to build an imposing world, a concrete jungle that dwarfs its inhabitants. This setting holds people captive, both physically and symbolically, in every scene. Satire Through Familiar Symbols The satire in  Urinetown  is powerful. I aimed to bring that tone into every part of the set. One key detail is the  UGC (Urine Good Company) logo . We redesigned it to echo Amazon’s smile. This design serves as a subtle nod to corporate monopolies and their control over people’s lives. The logo looms over scenes at Public Amenity #9 , a place where the poor must pay to use the restroom. This constant reminder highlights the absurdity and cruelty of UGC’s control. Cladwell’s Office: A Symbol of Power and Disconnect When Bobby Strong storms into Cladwell’s office, he enters a different world. We used this space to amplify Cladwell’s wealth and disconnect from the suffering outside. Key features of the office include: Rows of water bottles A live tree These small luxuries highlight the gap between the rich and poor in  Urinetown . For Cladwell, these decorations are a visual declaration of his privilege in a world where water is scarce. This contrast makes Bobby’s fight for justice feel even more significant. Power Dynamics in a Concrete Jungle The set’s levels are essential in showing the hierarchy in  Urinetown . UGC’s offices sit on the highest level, towering over the lower deck where the poor live and fight to survive. This staging allows for powerful visual storytelling. Characters physically ascend to confront UGC or descend to rally with the people.  Most of the action unfolds around Public Amenity #9, where the poor gather, argue, and begin to resist. Keeping this area on the lower level reinforces the idea of the people being “beneath” UGC. It also makes it the heart of the show’s rebellion. The fight for dignity starts here, in the shadow of the corporate overlords. The Secret Hideout: A Glimpse of Hope In scenes where Bobby and the rebels gather in the “Secret Hideout,” we created a shift in scale and atmosphere. An oversized and flashy hideout sign adds a touch of absurdity. Yet, it is also the one place where characters can breathe and dream of a world without UGC. Here, they find the strength to push back. The smaller, more personal space reflects the shift from passive suffering to active resistance. Lighting, texture, and the concrete reality Lighting plays a huge role in defining the mood of  Urinetown . We initially planned to use LED tape lighting. However, our lighting designer, Vincent Williams, suggested LED strips instead. This change allowed us to enhance the dramatic shifts in tone. It also helped to elevate musical numbers and intensify the oppressive feeling of the city during somber moments. For the physical look, we used MDF to create walls that appear like concrete. This smooth material helped us achieve an industrial, unforgiving appearance. The concrete jungle became the perfect setting for a story about scarcity, where resources are minimal. Every corner of the set reminds the audience of this harsh reality. Tying the Design to the Action One great aspect of  Urinetown  is how it uses humor to tackle dark subjects. I wanted the set to support that balance. Bobby’s journey from Public Amenity #9 to Cladwell’s office is both literal and symbolic. Each level represents a step up in his rebellion. When he returns to rally the people, the set visually brings him back to their level. This grounding makes the stakes feel real. In this world, the set is not just a backdrop; it shapes the characters’ movements and decisions. It gives the action a physical presence, showing the weight of oppression on the poor and the arrogance of UGC. With every step, characters confront the structures that define their lives. Making  Urinetown  Feel Both Distant and Real With this design, I aimed to create enough distance for the audience to laugh but with a familiarity that makes them uncomfortable. This world of scarcity, greed, and corporate power is absurd but not far removed from our own reality. I hope that the set supports this duality—entertaining yet thought-provoking.  Urinetown  asks us to consider what happens when resources become weapons. It questions when those at the top control basic human needs. The set reminds the audience that this story, though exaggerated, isn’t as fictional as it seems. In the balance between humor and discomfort, there’s a message worth considering long after the show ends.

Introduction If your students call you a tech guru, you know the flood of emails asking: "Which computer should I buy?" It’s a rite of passage. The array of options, each tailored to a specific budget, can make anyone feel a slight sense of anxiety. But fear not! We must teach our students to thrive in today's digital world. Incorporating computer literacy into our curricula is paramount, and here’s why. "Bridging Generational Gaps in Computer Literacy" Society often assumes that students are inherently tech-savvy. Memes joke about Millennials teaching their Boomer bosses how to create a PDF. However, the reality is that our Gen Z students are the iPad generation. They’re accustomed to mobile software designed for intuitive navigation with a few finger gestures. Traditional PC software can be overwhelming with its myriad hotkeys and hidden menus. Even software like AutoCAD, which has been around since 1982, relies on a command bar. A Curriculum Tailored to the Future I’ve integrated computer literacy into my Digital Rendering Course, a required class for all production students. Here’s a glimpse of how I structure the course: Day 1: Unraveling Computer Hardware Types of Computers: Strengths and Weaknesses Operating Systems: Demystified Hardware Components: From Motherboards to GPUs The Brain of the Computer: CPU and CPU Cores Navigating Graphics: Understanding the GPU Balancing Act: Understanding RAM Storage Wars: SSD vs. HDD Accessories: Their Importance I’ve found that quirky anecdotes help demystify complex ideas. For example, I compare the CPU to the brain and RAM to a juggler, balancing coursework. This session will teach students to assess their software and hardware needs for smart investments. Day 2: Mastering File Management and Storage Organizing Chaos: File Naming Schemes Folder Hierarchy: The Art of Organizing Files Over Time: Managing and Removing The Ageless Files: Storage on Physical Drives Embracing the Cloud: Services, Benefits, and Drawbacks This session teaches key file management skills. It stresses their importance for teamwork and collaboration. Day 3: The Rise of Artificial Intelligence A Journey Through AI History AI vs Traditional Computing: How They Differ Meeting Chat GPT: Understanding AI Generators Impact of AI on the Art Industry Ethics in AI: Navigating Uncharted Territory The final lecture dives into the relevance of AI in today’s society. It's intriguing. Students know of AI tools, but haven't explored them. They often haven't made AI art or used ChatGPT. The ethics discussion sparks engaging debates and leads to personal growth. Empowering Students for the Future In today's digital age, the demand for tech is soaring. So, we must teach computer skills in theatre production education. It empowers students to make informed decisions about their craft's tech. They shouldn't rely only on intuition. A well-versed student can match their hardware needs based on software specifications. They can also find the best value for their needs. This dispels the myth that they must spend thousands on a high-end computer. By aligning courses with the technology, we bridge the digital divide. This makes education accessible to all, regardless of their background or location. This fosters a more inclusive, diverse community of theatre practitioners. They will thrive in an industry driven by innovation and creativity. Conclusion Computer literacy in our curriculums isn't about technical skills. It's about giving them the confidence to navigate a changing digital world. We want to empower them for a future where technology is more important. Let's bridge the gap between generations. Let's create a more tech-savvy, informed generation of theatre production professionals.

Introduction As Theatrical Designers, our role often extends beyond the confines of the stage and into the realm of presentations, be it in front of a captivated audience of actors during the first rehearsal or in a crucial concept or budget meeting with a team of producers. In these moments, our primary objective is to infuse a sense of wonder and anticipation into our work, captivating our audience with the potential of our designs. One of the most exemplary models for this kind of compelling presentation can be observed in Apple's Quarterly Keynotes. The tech giant has perfected the art of intertwining their products with the human experience, seamlessly blending innovation with emotion. Their signature "and there's more" approach keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, eagerly awaiting the next big reveal. Within hours of their presentation, the internet is abuzz with excitement as bloggers and news outlets rush to share the latest and greatest from Apple's lineup. The parallels between the world of theatrical design and Apple's presentation style are evident, and there is a wealth of knowledge that we, as Theatrical Designers, can glean from their approach. By harnessing the power of storytelling and anticipation, we can elevate our presentations to new heights, captivating our audience and leaving them eagerly awaiting the curtain to rise.  Planning the Design Presentation As designers, we often find ourselves immersed in the intricate process of developing our design concepts, dedicating weeks or even months to bring our visions to life. However, equally challenging and essential is the task of conveying these rich, complex ideas during a presentation to our peers and collaborators, often condensed into a brief 5 to 10-minute window. This can be an overwhelming prospect, especially for those less acquainted with the nuances of presentation.  Drawing from my years of experience as a professional designer, I've developed a structured approach to craft presentations that simplify the complex narrative of our design process and magnify the impact of our message. I am thrilled to share this methodology with you in this article. The presentation is a pivotal aspect of our role as designers. It's our platform to illustrate our unique artistic contributions and the value we add to a production. More than just a showcase of ideas, a well-orchestrated presentation is an opportunity to share our passion and define our role within the collaborative fabric of the creative team. In these crucial moments, we can inspire our peers and contribute significantly to the collective creation of the production world. By honing our presentation skills, we ensure that our ideas are communicated with clarity and persuasion, bolstering the collaborative process and contributing to the production's overall success. Presentation Format Introduction Research  Design Concept Technical Details  Concluding Remark and Open Forum The Introduction The opening moments of a presentation are crucial. As a design team member, you will present before or after one of your colleagues. This is your golden opportunity to take command of the room and establish a strong presence. Start by introducing yourself clearly and straightforwardly, such as, “Hello, my name is [Your Name], and for this production, I am the [Scenic, Costume, Lighting, Sound, or Projection] Designer." Accompanying this, your first slide should be simple and effective, featuring your name and job title, complemented by a color palette and typography that resonates with the production's mood. Once the formalities of your introduction are out of the way, the floor is yours to delve into the essence of the production from your perspective. Share what emotions the production evokes in you, pinpoint the central theme as you perceive it, or weave in a personal anecdote that connects your life experiences with the production's narrative. This is your moment to not only share your professional role but also offer a glimpse into your personal connection with the project, thereby fostering a deeper, more meaningful engagement with your audience. Research and visual presentation Initial Research: Following your introduction, guiding your audience through your unique design process is essential. Begin by sharing preliminary research images, detailing your first impressions upon reading the script, and describing pivotal conversations with the director and other design team members. This initial stage of research sets the stage, steering your audience toward understanding your theatrical concept. Contextual Research: From there, delve into contextual or historical research. This segment is dedicated to connecting the dots between the script's reality and your conceptual vision. Here, your objective is to build the world of the production, laying out critical elements such as time period, locale, social class, etc. For this portion, your visual aids might include historical photographs sourced from the internet or books or even personal images that tie into the production’s setting. Emotional Research: Having laid down the realities of the world you've created, shift the focus to the emotional landscape of the production. Discuss how you wish the audience to perceive and feel about the production and how you plan to weave in the central theme. This is the opportunity to showcase your selected color palettes, cinematic references, or other artistic inspirations that have shaped your design. Research Notes In designing your presentation, remember that you, the designer, are the bridge between your concept and the audience. It’s crucial not to overwhelm your audience with an excess of images; instead, carefully curate key visuals that adeptly navigate your audience through your creative thought process. I recommend using no more than six images per slide to maintain clarity and focus. Establish a clear hierarchy within your images to highlight specific details that merit attention. Supplement these visuals with text to provide context and purpose behind each collage. This approach ensures a clear, concise, and engaging presentation that effectively communicates your design vision.  Design Concept After thoroughly laying out the intricacies of your design process, you are primed for the grand unveiling of your masterpiece. I personally like to kick off this pivotal section of the presentation with what I've affectionately dubbed "The Hero Slide." This is the slide that brings your audience face-to-face with the culmination of your hard work and creativity. Depending on your specific design role, this could be a stunning Scenic Design Rendering, a collection of principal renderings for a Costume Design, an evocative Flash and Trash Lighting Rendering, or for Sound Design, a poignant Emotional Research Image harmoniously overlaid with a soundscape or piece of music you've composed. This moment serves as the crescendo of your presentation, a testament to your artistic vision and dedication to the production. To maintain a seamless and immersive visual experience, your images must adhere to a 16:9 aspect ratio, filling the entire screen to forge a direct connection between your audience, yourself, and your work. Avoid images that are pages from a Design Package or document, as these can be distracting and detract from the quality of your presentation. Following your "Hero Image," the subsequent slides should delve deeper into your design, with the content varying depending on your specific design discipline. It's important to remember that while you want to highlight the pinnacle of your design, it's optional to share every minute detail. Overloading your audience with information can lead to losing focus and engagement. Instead, aim to strike the right balance between showcasing your work and maintaining audience interest. Scenic Design: For Scenic Designers, providing a clear and comprehensive understanding of the spatial relationships within the set is essential. Present the ground plan and section, highlighting how different scenic elements interact and potential blocking scenarios. Follow this up with additional renderings for each scene, including human figures, to establish scale and incorporate general lighting to convey the intended mood. Costume Design: Costume Designers should prioritize showcasing the principal characters of the production. A useful approach is to display the character’s progression throughout the production by including multiple costume looks on a single slide. Follow this with a final slide dedicated to ensemble characters, providing a holistic view of the production’s costume design. Lighting Design: If you are proficient with software like Vectorworks, utilize lighting renderings to demonstrate how the set transitions between scenes. If not, lean on your emotional research to guide you through the presentation, utilizing color palettes and images from related media to communicate your ideas effectively. Sound Design: While Sound Design is inherently a non-visual form, incorporating images that support the theme and mood derived from your emotional research can significantly enhance audience engagement. Complement these visuals with soundscapes encapsulating key moments in the production, creating a multisensory presentation that vividly brings your sound design to life. Technical Details This segment of the presentation embodies the exhilarating "and there's more" ethos familiar from Apple Keynotes. It's the moment where theatrical designers can truly flaunt the innovative and standout aspects of their designs. For Scenic Designers, this might involve delving into the specifics of incorporating practical light fixtures, cutting-edge LEDs, or the intricacies of automated scenery that bring dynamic motion to the stage. Costume Designers have a chance to shine by delving into the theatrical magic underpinning moments like Cinderella's on-stage dress transformation, the meticulous craftsmanship behind historically accurate corsets, or the sourcing of rare and authentic materials that give costumes a touch of realism. Meanwhile, Lighting and Sound Designers can emphasize advancements and unique touches in their domain. This is the time to discuss new technologies being leveraged, rented equipment that enhances the atmospheric elements, or pioneering techniques employed to create a truly immersive auditory or visual experience for the audience. In essence, this segment is a celebration of the designer's artistry, innovation, and the special touches that elevate a production from ordinary to extraordinary. Concluding Remarks and Open Forum As you approach the final moments of your presentation, it’s important to wrap up your narrative with concluding remarks that encapsulate the essence of your design vision and its significance to the production. Reflect on the key points you’ve shared, reiterating the innovative aspects and creative prowess that you, as a designer, bring to the table. After your concluding remarks, transition into an open forum, inviting questions and fostering a dialogue with your audience. This is an invaluable opportunity to engage in meaningful interactions, clarify any points of curiosity, and further elucidate aspects of your design that may have piqued interest. Opening the floor to questions demonstrates your openness to collaboration and your commitment to the collective success of the production. It also allows you to glean insights from different perspectives, which can be instrumental in refining and enhancing your design as you move forward. In essence, the concluding remarks and open forum serve as a bridge, connecting the realm of your creative vision with the collaborative ecosystem of the production, ultimately contributing to a richer, more cohesive artistic endeavor. Conclusion  In conclusion, the art of presentation in theatrical design is a nuanced dance between storytelling, anticipation, and technical prowess. Just as Apple's Keynotes have captivated the world with their seamless blending of innovation and human experience, we, as theatrical designers, can wield our presentations as a tool of enchantment, bringing our audience into the unique world we've crafted. A successful presentation is not just about showcasing our designs but about sharing our passion, process, and vision in a way that resonates with our collaborators, ultimately contributing to the cohesive creation of the production world. Through careful planning, clear communication, and a dash of flair, we can elevate our presentations to be not just a mere sharing of ideas but an experience that leaves our audience not only understanding our vision but also eagerly awaiting the moment the curtain rises on the final production. Let us take a cue from Apple's playbook and harness the power of storytelling, anticipation, and technical excellence to truly captivate our audience and leave them with a lasting impression of the magic we bring to the stage.

Design Process Use this area to highlight recent blog posts, showcase standout projects, or to feature particular items and services that will make an impression on website visitors. Change the title and text to your own content, or replace with a different element. New Swan Venue File See Portfolio An Inspector Calls See Portfolio Lysistrata See Portfolio Coraline Project | Walkthrough See Portfolio Footloose Scenic Design See Portfolio The Man with the Flower in His Mouth See Portfolio Hamlet See Portfolio American Idiot See Portfolio Rodelinda See Portfolio Tales from Hoffman See Portfolio Falstaff See Portfolio Ragtime See Portfolio

Collaborator Select Category Select Production Portfolio Links Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Collaboration Directory This directory celebrates the incredible directors, music directors, choreographers, and designers I’ve had the privilege to work with. These collaborators inspire the creativity and innovation behind every production. Explore their contributions to unforgettable shows, and filter by role to learn more about the teams that make the magic happen.

Resume Affiliations Member United Scenic Artists 823 (USA 829) 2023- Present Info Senior Experiential Designer Adaptive Design Services 2023- Present Info Assistant Professor of Scenic Design Stephens College 2021-2023 Info Assistant Professor of Scenic Design and Technology University of Texas El Paso Spring 2021 Info Adjunct Lecturer of Scenic Design University of California, Irvine Fall 2020 Info MFA, Scenic Design University of California, Irvine 2020 Info Resident Scenic Designer The Great American Melodrama 2016-2017 Info Resident Scenic Designer West Virginia Public Theatre 2015 Info BFA, Theatre Arts Stephens College 2010 Info Member United States Institute of Theatre Technology (USITT) 2009- Present Info Scenic Design [selected] Info Urinetown 2024 Directed by: Joy Powell University of Missouri Info The Music Man 2024 Directed by: Bernie Monroe Okoboji Summer Theatre Info Barefoot in The Park 2024 Directed by: Brett Olson Okoboji Summer Theatre Info Freaky Friday 2024 Directed by: Josh Walden Okoboji Summer Theatre Info Baskerville: A Sherlock Holmes Mystery 2024 Directed by: Stephen Brotebeck Okoboji Summer Theatre Info 9 to 5 2024 Directed by: Brandon Riley University of Missouri Info Footloose 2024 Directed by: Jamey Grisham Stephens College Info Bright Star 2024 Directed by: Andre' Rodriguez Denver School of the Arts Info Boeing, Boeing 2024 Directed by: John Hemphill Stephens College Info An Enemy of The People 2023 Directed by: LR Hults Stephens College Info Christmas Carol 2023 Directed by: Courtney Crouse Stephens College Info Songs for a New World 2023 Directed by: Lisa Brescia Stephens College Info The Wedding Singer 2023 Directed by: Bernie Monroe Okoboji Summer Theatre Info Dial "M" For Murder 2023 Directed by: Fred Rubeck Okoboji Summer Theatre Info Cole 2023 Directed by: Alison Morooney Okoboji Summer Theatre Info Head Over Heels 2023 Directed by: Josh Walden Theatre SilCo Info Lotería 2023 Directed by: Sara Rodriguez Theatre SilCo Info Spelling Bee 2023 Directed by: Todd Davidson Okoboji Summer Theatre Info Merry Wives of Windsor 2023 Directed by: Jamey Grisham Okoboji Summer Theatre Info Bright Star 2022 Directed by: Lauren Haughton Okoboji Summer Theatre Info An Inspector Calls 2022 Directed by: Stephen Brotebeck Okoboji Summer Theatre Info Man Of La Mancha 2022 Directed by: Chris Allerman Lake Dillon Theatre Info A Funny Thing Happened… 2022 Directed by: Melissa Livingston Lake Dillon Theatre Info Tomas and the Library Lady 2022 Directed by: Sara Rodriguez Lake Dillon Theatre Info The Bald Soprano 2022 Directed by: Brett Olson Stephens College Info A Smalltowne Christmas 2021 Directed by: Richard Stafford Stephens College Info Urinetown 2021 Directed by: Paul Finocchiaro Okoboji Summer Theatre Info The Marvelous Wonderettes: Dream On 2021 Directed by: Lauren Haughton Okoboji Summer Theatre Info Clue On Stage 2021 Directed by: Stephen Brotebeck Okoboji Summer Theatre Info Lysistrata 2021 Directed by: Jay Stratton University of Texas El Paso Info The Penelopiad 2020 Directed by: Sara Rodriguez University of California, Irvine Info Company 2019 Directed by: Eli Simon University of California, Irvine Info Spitfire Grill 2019 Directed by: Lamby Hedge Western Summer Theatre Info Living on Love 2019 Directed by: Fred Rubeck Okoboji Summer Theatre Info An American Daughter 2019 Directed by: Lamby Hedge Western Washington University Info The Pajama Game 2019 Directed by: Don Hill University of California, Irvine Info Parliament Square 2019 Directed by: Jane Page University of California, Irvine Info Not Now, Darling 2018 Directed by: Fred Rubeck Okoboji Summer Theatre Info American Idiot 2018 Directed by: Andrew Palermo University of California, Irvine Info Angel Food Cake 2017 Directed by: Evan Mueller Western Summer Theatre Info The Tavern 2017 Directed by: Suzy Newman The Great American Melodrama Info When Butter Churns Gold 2017 Directed by: Michael Jenkinson The Great American Melodrama Info The Foreigner 2017 Directed by: Dan Schultz The Great American Melodrama Info Cinderella 2016 Directed by: Liz Piccoli Okoboji Summer Theatre Info A Murder Is Announced 2016 Directed by: Karl Kippola Okoboji Summer Theatre Info Vanya, Sonia, Masha, and Spike 2016 Directed by: Lamby Hedge Stephens College Info Smoke on The Mountain 2015 Directed by: Michael Bollinger West Virginia Public Theatre Info Footloose 2015 Directed by: Stephen Casey West Virginia Public Theatre Info A Grand Night for Singing 2015 Directed by: James Zager West Virginia Public Theatre Info Barefoot in The Park 2015 Directed by: Kymberly Mellen Okoboji Summer Theatre Assistant/ Associate Scenic Design [selected] Info The Book Club Play 2024 Scenic Design by: Jo Winiarski Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park Info Silent Sky 2024 Scenic Design by: Jo Winiarski Utah Shakespeare Festival Info The Mountain Top 2024 Scenic Design by: Jo Winiarski Utah Shakespeare Festival Info Jersey Boys 2024 Scenic Design by: Jo Winiarski Pioneer Theater Company Info Natasha, Pierre, and the Great Comet of 1812 2024 Scenic Design by: Jo Winiarski Pioneer Theater Company Info Native Gardens 2024 Scenic Design by: Jo Winiarski Pioneer Theater Company Info Bottle Shock (world premier) 2023 Scenic Design by: Jo Winiarski California Center for the Arts Escondido Info The Fears 2023 Scenic Design by: Jo Winiarski The Signature- Irene Diamond Stage Info A Distinct Society 2023 Scenic Design by: Jo Winiarski Pioneer Theatre Company Info Clue On Stage 2022 Scenic Design by: Jo Winiarski Dallas Theatre Center Info Clue On Stage 2022 Scenic Design by: Jo Winiarski Utah Shakespeare Festival Info The Sound of Music 2022 Scenic Design by: Jo Winiarski Utah Shakespeare Festival Info Trouble In Mind 2022 Scenic Design by: Jo Winiarski Utah Shakespeare Festival Info Gold Mountain (world premiere) 2021 Scenic Design by: Jo Winiarski Utah Shakespeare Festival Info Ragtime 2021 Scenic Design by: Jo Winiarski Utah Shakespeare Festival Info The Pirate of Penzance 2021 Scenic Design by: Jo Winiarski Utah Shakespeare Festival Info Little Shop of Horrors 2014 Scenic Design by: Ryan J. Zirngibl Arrow Rock Lyceum Theatre Info The King and I 2014 Scenic Design by: Ryan J. Zirngibl Arrow Rock Lyceum Theatre