Welcome back to Tech Tuesday! For those who may not know, Tech Tuesday is all about bringing some insight into what happens behind the scenes for The Rose theater productions. Some may see a show at The Rose and see the scenic design or they see the lights changing–but they don’t get to see or understand how the technical elements work or even, who makes it happen.
So here we are! This week, we are going to be focusing our attention on the Director of Lighting & Sound at The Rose, Craig S. Moxon. Here at The Rose, we have one person who is responsible for making sure that Lighting & Sound are taken care of for each our mainstage productions, however, that is not always the case at other theaters.
Craig has worked at The Rose as a full-time staff member for a little over a year, but he has been designing shows for The Rose as a guest lighting designer for about seven years. So let’s dive into what Craig shared with us about what he does for The Rose productions.
Can you please provide a description of what it means to be the Director of Lighting & Sound?
In essence I am the Resident Lighting & Sound Designer, which means that I am responsible for creation of the lighting & sound designs for each of the mainstage productions. The Director role of my position entails oversight of two apprentices and daily operation of the Lighting and Sound departments.
What do your daily duties consist of?
Creation of lighting and sound designs for each mainstage production. Maintenance and upkeep of lighting and sound equipment. Collaboration with guest designers and directors. Budgeting, purchasing, and recommending upgrades to lighting and sound equipment. Acting as liaison in regard to lighting and sound with the education department as well as any lighting needs for Broadway At The Rose and Drama At The Rose, etc. Oversight & training of Apprentices within the Production Department. Numerous other duties depending on how many shows we are working on at the time.
What inspired you to start working in theater? What inspired you to work in the areas of lighting and sound?
I have always enjoyed being a storyteller. Theatre allowed me to take the written word and create something visual to further the storytelling experience. Furthermore, no other design element can have such a profound impact on the sub-conscience level of audience members like lighting and sound. I like knowing that I can have an impact beyond what many people may notice. I have found that one of the most challenging and most rewarding things I can do is paint with light and sound.
Did you go to school for theater?
Yup. I received my MFA in Theatre Design & Production from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale.
When/what was your first theatrical experience?
It has been too many years for me to remember my first theatrical experience. I couldn’t even venture to guess.
What show that you have worked on are you most proud of?
There have been so many shows that it is hard to pick. I’d have to say one that stays with me, not only for the final product, but the process and the impact that it had on my design aesthetic would have to be a production of Gross Indecency: The Three Trials of Oscar Wilde that I did while in graduate school. It remains as a piece of work that I’m quite proud of. In terms of shows here at the Rose, I’m really proud of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. It was really indicative of my design aesthetic, and a wonderful collaborative process.
Was there a moment in your life solidified that you wanted to be a theater artist?
I’d venture to guess when I made the decision to study theatre in Graduate School.
What is your favorite part of your job as the Director of Lighting & Sound?
I get to paint with light!!!
What is your least favorite part of your job?
When my paint brushes don’t work. (paint brushes = lighting instruments)
If you had any advice for a child who wanted to pursue a career as a lighting or sound designer, what would it be?
Surround yourself with all types of art. Appreciate the small things. Look for beauty in everything. Work hard to reach your dreams. Oh, and ask a lot of questions.
So, for 9 our show mainstage season, Craig is responsible for making sure that all lighting and sound needs are met. That’s a lot of time that he dedicates to the art of theater and making sure that the lighting and sound elements are as effective as they can be.
Thank you, Craig, for taking time out of your day to answer these questions for us! We can’t wait to see what you do next on the mainstage!
Happy Tech Tuesday!