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Sunday, January 19
 

2:00pm CST

Costume Parade Drop Off
Sunday January 19, 2025 2:00pm - 5:00pm CST
Hoyt Sherman Place
Drop Off time for costumes for those participating in the Costume Parade
Festival Leadership
avatar for AP Pikiben

AP Pikiben

Cost. Parade Coordinator, Truman State University
AP is a professor at Truman State University. This is their second year as the Co-Coordinator for the Expo and first year as Costume Parade Coordinator. AP is excited for another year at their favorite festival!
Sunday January 19, 2025 2:00pm - 5:00pm CST
Hoyt Sherman Place 1501 Woodland Ave, Des Moines, IA 50314, USA
  Festival Events, Costume Parade

9:30pm CST

Stage Management Orientation
Sunday January 19, 2025 9:30pm - 10:15pm CST
Marriott Salon E (2nd Floor)
Orientation for all Stage Management participants
Festival Leadership
avatar for Patrick Reading

Patrick Reading

Stage Management Coordinator, University of North Dakota
Patrick is currently the Technical Director and a Teaching Assistant Professor for the University of North Dakota Department of Theatre Arts. In addition to UND’s Technical Direction, he is the resident Sound Designer, supervisor of Stage Management and Properties and proudly acts... Read More →
Sunday January 19, 2025 9:30pm - 10:15pm CST
Marriott Salon E (2nd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Orientation/Meeting, Stage Management
 
Monday, January 20
 

9:30am CST

Costume Runway Intensive
Monday January 20, 2025 9:30am - 12:30pm CST
Marriott Exhibit Hall North (3rd Floor)
In this intensive students will randomly pull a character that they must design with a given concept. Students will create a pin drape on provided dress forms, using stock fabrics, that will then be displayed at the entrance of the Design/ Tech Expo for the rest of the conference. If able, students are asked to bring 2 yards of fabric to contribute to the stock fabric used in the intensive.
Festival Leadership
avatar for Cassie Kay Hoppas

Cassie Kay Hoppas

U of Central Missouri
Cassie Kay Hoppas is the Assistant Professor of Costumes for the Division of Theatre and Dance at University of Central Missouri. Originally from Erie, Ks, Cassie completed her BFA of Theatre from Emporia State University and her MFA in Costume Design and Production from the University... Read More →
Monday January 20, 2025 9:30am - 12:30pm CST
Marriott Exhibit Hall North (3rd Floor)
  Workshops, DTM Expo

11:00am CST

Costume Crafts Show and Share
Monday January 20, 2025 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
Marriott Dubuque (3rd Floor)
As costume artisans and theatre practitioners we have lots of different talents and interests. Sometimes they are seen on stage and sometimes they are for our own enjoyment and for those we love. This session is simply a show and share of all the other things you may be working on that are NOT related to a production. Are you a quilter? Knitter? Do you love to crochet? Is workworking or nalbinding a hobby? Come and show and share and chat about the other crafty hobbies that fill your elusive free time. No pressure! No judging! Just a chat...
Presenters
avatar for Sheila Tabaka

Sheila Tabaka

Southwest Minnesota State U
Sheila Tabaka is a theatrical director and costume designer, teaching at Southwest Minnesota State University. She attended the kilt making apprenticeship at the Kiltmakery in Edinburgh, Scotland and is now the owner of Caledonia Kilts. Tabaka is a past chair of KCACTF Region 5 Design... Read More →
Monday January 20, 2025 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
Marriott Dubuque (3rd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

12:30pm CST

Stage Management Documentation
Monday January 20, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Marriott Cedar Rapids (3rd Floor)
One of the most important parts of the Stage Manager's role is documentation - the forms and the information included on those forms. This workshop will discuss different templates and what information can and should be included so that everyone working on the show has what they need to be successful in their individual contributions.
Presenters
avatar for Erin Urick

Erin Urick

Temporary Full-time Faculty - Theatre, Butler Community College
Erin Urick (they/them) is an award-winning performer and director, with an MFA in Stage Management from the University of Idaho and over 200 hours of experience as an Intimacy Director. They currently hold a faculty position at Butler Community College in El Dorado, KS.
Monday January 20, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Marriott Cedar Rapids (3rd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops
 
Tuesday, January 21
 

9:30am CST

Fairytale Design Workshop: Reimagining Stories Through Technical Theatre Session 1
Tuesday January 21, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am CST
Renaissance Savery Roosevelt
The fairytale design workshop is a three-day intensive workshop focused on collaboration and innovative theatrical designs. Each team member specializes in one technical theatre role: props, costumes, lighting, or scenic design, creating a high-concept design for classic fairytales. The final session will be presentations with guest judges and awards.
Presenters
avatar for Tetta Askeland

Tetta Askeland

Southwest Minnesota State U
Tetta M. Askeland is a scenic designer and educator currently based in Minnesota. She received her undergraduate degree from Northwestern College and received her MFA in Scenic Design and Technology from Kent State University. In addition to freelance work, Askeland teaches theatrical... Read More →
avatar for AP Pikiben

AP Pikiben

Cost. Parade Coordinator, Truman State University
AP is a professor at Truman State University. This is their second year as the Co-Coordinator for the Expo and first year as Costume Parade Coordinator. AP is excited for another year at their favorite festival!
avatar for Alex Pikiben

Alex Pikiben

Aspire Coord, Truman State University
Alex is a Lecturer of Theatre in Lights/Sound from Truman State University. He is also a freelance Light/Sound Designer from Minneapolis, MN. His past credits include Hair at Premiere Playhouse, Ride the Cyclone at Truman State, and Audio mixer at the True/False Festival. He loves... Read More →
Tuesday January 21, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am CST
Renaissance Savery Roosevelt 401 Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

12:30pm CST

Introduction to ETC Programming
Tuesday January 21, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Marriott Salon G (2nd Floor)
The ETC program can be intimidating when you’re first exposed to it. Come to this workshop and learn the basics of programming on the console. Whether you’re a student designer or a faculty member with an interest in lighting design, this workshop will provide you with the knowledge to put together a cohesive lighting design for your production
Presenters
avatar for Sarah Brown

Sarah Brown

University of South Dakota
Sarah Brown is a First Year MFA Candidate in Lighting and Sound Design at the University of South Dakota.
Tuesday January 21, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Marriott Salon G (2nd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

12:30pm CST

Maintain your Wigs and Facial Hair: The Do's and Don't for our Hairy Friends!
Tuesday January 21, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Renaissance Savery Roosevelt
This is a Beginner to intermediate workshop on maintaining wigs and facial hair for the theatre. This will teach the basic techniques of care, upkeep, styling, and storing all sorts of hair pieces. We will go from the beginning of a wig's life, through design, to production, and finally strike with care techniques and ideas for storage. This is a lecture and discussion-based workshop so please bring any ideas, notebooks, and questions you may have!
Presenters
avatar for Kylie McDonald

Kylie McDonald

University of North Dakota
Kylie McDonald is currently a Teaching Assistant Professor in the Theatre Arts Department and Costume Shop Manager at the Burtness Theatre. She holds an MFA in Costume Design with a secondary in Lighting Design. Her areas of discipline include costume design, patterning, draping... Read More →
Tuesday January 21, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Renaissance Savery Roosevelt 401 Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops
 
Wednesday, January 22
 

12:30pm CST

The Integrated Background
Wednesday January 22, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Renaissance Savery Roosevelt
Would you like to elevate your projection design to more than just the background of a scene? Do you bristle when a director tells you "I just want some pretty pictures"? Come look at a couple of case studies; design for "She Kills Monsters" and a new work being developed in Iowa, while learning how you can take your designs from a pretty backdrop to an integrated part of the production. You will learn how to talk to a director who may not have had projection design in mind, and how to collaborate with your team so everyone has a positive and productive outcome. You will also learn about some of the technology needed for integrated projection design. A great class for inspiring directors.
Presenters
avatar for Kristen Olinger

Kristen Olinger

ICON Iowa Conservatory
Kristen Olinger is the Director of Design and Production at ICON Iowa Conservatory in Iowa City. Her local work includes Projection and Lighting Design for Cornell College, Theatre Cedar Rapids, Revival Theatre Company, Cedar Rapids Opera Theatre, Riverside Theatre, Crooked Path and... Read More →
Wednesday January 22, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Renaissance Savery Roosevelt 401 Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

2:00pm CST

How to Compose for Theatre an Introduction to DAWs Midi and Composition
Wednesday January 22, 2025 2:00pm - 3:15pm CST
Marriott Salon A (2nd Floor)
Have you been working on a show and you haven’t been able to find a piece of music that is just right for a transition? Or maybe you want to try writing your own underscoring for a scene. This workshop will get you set up with everything you need to know to start writing your own music.
Presenters
avatar for Aleksandra Combs

Aleksandra Combs

U of Central Missouri
Aleksandra Combs (they/them) is a lighting sound, and projections designer based in Raymore, Missouri. They are also the Assistant Professor of Lighting and Sound Design at University of Central Missouri. Their recent design credits include She Kills Monsters (University of Central... Read More →
Wednesday January 22, 2025 2:00pm - 3:15pm CST
Marriott Salon A (2nd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

3:30pm CST

Bricolage
Wednesday January 22, 2025 3:30pm - 4:45pm CST
Marriott Salon A (2nd Floor)
Bricolage essentially is creating something out of nothing. Themes we will explore include the relationship between bricolage and working as a designer and theatre artist, working with a budget, alternative found materials and creative problem solving for art, sculpture, props and design. The workshop will include some creative exercises and activities and culminate with a small project.
Presenters
avatar for Spencer Musser

Spencer Musser

Assoc Workshop Coord, U of Central Missouri
Spencer Musser is the assistant professor of scene design and technical direction at the University of Central Missouri. He is a graduate of UMKC graduate theatre program and the Kansas City Art Institute. Since graduation he has worked and taught around the United States including... Read More →
Wednesday January 22, 2025 3:30pm - 4:45pm CST
Marriott Salon A (2nd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

3:30pm CST

Intro to Hand Sewing
Wednesday January 22, 2025 3:30pm - 4:45pm CST
Marriott Waterloo (3rd Floor)
And introduction to some of the key hand stitches found in a costume shop! Learn the whip stitch, back stitch, slip stitch, and catch stitch. Supplies and fabric will be provided.
Presenters
avatar for Cassie Kay Hoppas

Cassie Kay Hoppas

U of Central Missouri
Cassie Kay Hoppas is the Assistant Professor of Costumes for the Division of Theatre and Dance at University of Central Missouri. Originally from Erie, Ks, Cassie completed her BFA of Theatre from Emporia State University and her MFA in Costume Design and Production from the University... Read More →
Wednesday January 22, 2025 3:30pm - 4:45pm CST
Marriott Waterloo (3rd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops
 
Thursday, January 23
 

9:30am CST

Equity and Inclusion within the Costume Shop
Thursday January 23, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am CST
Renaissance Savery Roosevelt
This is a continuation of the workshop on diversity and inclusion within the costume shop. After attending USITT, there is more to be discussed about equity and inclusion of all in the costume shop. That includes the costume shop, costume shop management, costume employees, makeup and hair department, and the fitting rooms. This will be a lecture-based workshop with discussion so be sure to bring your notebooks and thoughts as we go on this journey together.
Presenters
avatar for Kylie McDonald

Kylie McDonald

University of North Dakota
Kylie McDonald is currently a Teaching Assistant Professor in the Theatre Arts Department and Costume Shop Manager at the Burtness Theatre. She holds an MFA in Costume Design with a secondary in Lighting Design. Her areas of discipline include costume design, patterning, draping... Read More →
Thursday January 23, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am CST
Renaissance Savery Roosevelt 401 Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

11:00am CST

Thinktank: Theatre Equipment Uprgades
Thursday January 23, 2025 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
Renaissance Savery Roosevelt
This intensive thinktank workshop addresses one of the most pressing challenges facing technical theatre programs today: managing and modernizing technical resources within realistic budget constraints. The session brings together technical directors, production managers, and theatre administrators to develop practical strategies for equipment management, upgrades, and financial planning.
Presenters
avatar for Tetta Askeland

Tetta Askeland

Southwest Minnesota State U
Tetta M. Askeland is a scenic designer and educator currently based in Minnesota. She received her undergraduate degree from Northwestern College and received her MFA in Scenic Design and Technology from Kent State University. In addition to freelance work, Askeland teaches theatrical... Read More →
avatar for Nadine Schmidt

Nadine Schmidt

Professor of Theatre, Theatre Program Coordinator, Producer, Southwest Minnesota State U
Nadine Purvis Schmidt is Professor of Theatre, Producer, and Program Coordinator at Southwest Minnesota State University. Acting credits include The Tempest (Prospero), A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Titania), Macbeth (First Witch, Malcolm) and Hamlet (Gertrude), with Bare Bodkins... Read More →
avatar for Sheila Tabaka

Sheila Tabaka

Southwest Minnesota State U
Sheila Tabaka is a theatrical director and costume designer, teaching at Southwest Minnesota State University. She attended the kilt making apprenticeship at the Kiltmakery in Edinburgh, Scotland and is now the owner of Caledonia Kilts. Tabaka is a past chair of KCACTF Region 5 Design... Read More →
Thursday January 23, 2025 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
Renaissance Savery Roosevelt 401 Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

12:30pm CST

Resume, Portfolio, and Cover Letters.... Tips and Tricks
Thursday January 23, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Marriott Salon A (2nd Floor)
Are you ready to take your applications to the next level? This workshop will dive into the essentials of creating an outstanding online portfolio. what to include, what to avoid, and how to make it shine! We'll also tackle the art of writing a compelling cover letter, including how to get started and the must-have elements that truly make a difference.

Whether you're gearing up for a summer theatre gig, a full-time opportunity, or graduate school, this session has you covered! Plus, there will be plenty of time for questions, so come ready to ask, learn, and leave feeling confident about your next steps.

This workshop is primarily geared for designers and technicians, but much of it will apply to performance as well!
Presenters
avatar for Lucas Granholm

Lucas Granholm

Portfolio Review Coord, U of Minnesota Morris
Lucas Granholm is an Assistant Professor of Theatre Arts at the University of Minnesota Morris (UMN Morris), Chair for The United States Institute for Theatrical Technology Northern Boundary Section, and Program Director of the Minneapolis Green Theatre Alliance. At UMN Morris, Granholm... Read More →
Thursday January 23, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Marriott Salon A (2nd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

12:30pm CST

Photoshop Rendering for Designers
Thursday January 23, 2025 12:30pm - 3:00pm CST
Renaissance Savery Roosevelt
Photoshop and digital renderings have become very popular in our industry. This workshop will demonstrate how designers can create quick scenic and lighting renderings for designs. We will also show techniques on how to use photoshop for costume renderings. Feel free to bring a laptop and follow along!
Presenters
avatar for Curtis Phillips

Curtis Phillips

U of Minnesota Duluth
Curtis Phillips (cjp2designs.com) received an MFA in Scenic Design from the University of Wisconsin Madison where he studied under Joe Varga. Professional theatre credits include produced designs for Off-Off Broadway for the Mint Theatre Co and the American Globe Theatre as well as... Read More →
Thursday January 23, 2025 12:30pm - 3:00pm CST
Renaissance Savery Roosevelt 401 Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

2:00pm CST

How to Mic Almost Anything
Thursday January 23, 2025 2:00pm - 3:15pm CST
Marriott Salon A (2nd Floor)
We spend a lot of time in theatre talking about the use of wireless mics for our actors. But what about miking the orchestra? How do we record quality audio for underscoring? How do I know what microphones to use for what applications? How do I use EQ to enhance the sound? This workshop will delve into these questions, and more! Bring your questions and your ideas and we'll talk about sound.
Presenters
avatar for Corey Shelsta

Corey Shelsta

South Dakota State University
Corey is a Professor of Theatre at SDSU, where he teaches Scenic, Lighting, and Sound Design, as well as Theatre History and Literature. Corey designs for SDSU Theatre, Prairie Repertory Theatre, and other theatres in the region.
Thursday January 23, 2025 2:00pm - 3:15pm CST
Marriott Salon A (2nd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

3:30pm CST

Fairytale Design Workshop: Reimagining Stories Through Technical Theatre Session 2
Thursday January 23, 2025 3:30pm - 4:45pm CST
Renaissance Savery Roosevelt
The fairytale design workshop is a three-day intensive workshop focused on collaboration and innovative theatrical designs. Each team member specializes in one technical theatre role: props, costumes, lighting, or scenic design, creating a high-concept design for classic fairytales. The final session will be presentations with guest judges and awards.
Presenters
avatar for Tetta Askeland

Tetta Askeland

Southwest Minnesota State U
Tetta M. Askeland is a scenic designer and educator currently based in Minnesota. She received her undergraduate degree from Northwestern College and received her MFA in Scenic Design and Technology from Kent State University. In addition to freelance work, Askeland teaches theatrical... Read More →
avatar for AP Pikiben

AP Pikiben

Cost. Parade Coordinator, Truman State University
AP is a professor at Truman State University. This is their second year as the Co-Coordinator for the Expo and first year as Costume Parade Coordinator. AP is excited for another year at their favorite festival!
avatar for Alex Pikiben

Alex Pikiben

Aspire Coord, Truman State University
Alex is a Lecturer of Theatre in Lights/Sound from Truman State University. He is also a freelance Light/Sound Designer from Minneapolis, MN. His past credits include Hair at Premiere Playhouse, Ride the Cyclone at Truman State, and Audio mixer at the True/False Festival. He loves... Read More →
Thursday January 23, 2025 3:30pm - 4:45pm CST
Renaissance Savery Roosevelt 401 Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops
 
Friday, January 24
 

9:00am CST

Stage Management Round Table
Friday January 24, 2025 9:00am - 10:30am CST
Marriott Waterloo (3rd Floor)
Festival Leadership
avatar for Patrick Reading

Patrick Reading

Stage Management Coordinator, University of North Dakota
Patrick is currently the Technical Director and a Teaching Assistant Professor for the University of North Dakota Department of Theatre Arts. In addition to UND’s Technical Direction, he is the resident Sound Designer, supervisor of Stage Management and Properties and proudly acts... Read More →
Friday January 24, 2025 9:00am - 10:30am CST
Marriott Waterloo (3rd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops, Stage Management

9:30am CST

Building your Resume
Friday January 24, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am CST
Marriott Salon G (2nd Floor)
Program Representative and Teaching Artist, Rachel Kelsey, draws upon her personal and professional experience to bring you this workshop on building a theatrical resume. In this session, we will take a look at common resume layouts of industry professionals, examine what should be included on a resume, and craft our own. If time allows, we will deep-dive into headshots and websites as well. The intention of this session is to assist performers in creating tools to help them have successful careers and auditions. Here we will work on crafting strong, professional, and unique resumes. The session is taught from the lens and personal experience of Rachel Kelsey as she has attended professional auditions with individuals such as Alison Franck (Casting Director), Jeff Whiting (NYC Director/Choreographer), Kristian Charbonier (Casting Director), Sue Frost (Broadway Producer), etc. Things we will cover include:
- What to include within a theatrical resume (Physical Details, Contact Information, Experience (Stage, Film/Television, etc.), Education/Training, Awards/Honors, and Special Skills) as well as common formatting.
Organization of theatrical credits.
- Headshots - specifically how the individual would like to represent and market themself.
- What should be included within a performer, director, playwright and/or multi-hyphenate website.
Presenters
avatar for Rachel Kelsey

Rachel Kelsey

NTI Program Representative and Admissions Manager, National Theatre Institute
I understand and acknowledge that I teach these workshops through the lens of my own background, culture, and experience. It is neither my goal nor my desire to foist my lens upon students, but to facilitate an understanding and skill set when approaching these works that enhances... Read More →
Friday January 24, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am CST
Marriott Salon G (2nd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

9:30am CST

Thinking Inside the Box: Storyboarding for Puppet Design and Direction
Friday January 24, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am CST
Marriott Salon F (2nd Floor)
Storyboarding is a vital practice for working out the visual aspects of a performance, but it can also be an essential part of the process for writing, designing, and building puppets and performing objects. In this workshop we will explore the process of storyboarding and how it can be applied to live theatre, especially for puppetry. I will demonstrate my own process for creating storyboards, using storyboards to understand how puppets will work and how they should be constructed, and guide you through the process for creating a puppet sequence to help tell a visual story.
Presenters
avatar for Ethan Koerner

Ethan Koerner

Northwestern College
Ethan Koerner is designer, director, and puppeteer with over 20 years of professional and academic experience. Ethan is interested in visual storytelling and utilizing puppetry and mask to adapt timeless stories for live performance. He has created adaptations of The Jungle Book and... Read More →
Friday January 24, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am CST
Marriott Salon F (2nd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

9:30am CST

What's Your Vision? Conceptualizing, Communicating, and Collaborating as a Production Team
Friday January 24, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am CST
Marriott Cedar Rapids (3rd Floor)
This panel discussion focuses on ways to develop and communicate production concepts and visualize early ideas from the standpoint of both directors and designers. We will offer insights into our personal processes with perspectives from a director, a scenic designer, and a lighting designer. Additionally, we will take a look at common challenges that occur in this process and how to overcome them.
Presenters
avatar for Jacee Casarella

Jacee Casarella

Co-Volunteer Coordinator, Augustana University
Jacee Casarella is an Assistant Teaching Professor, Resident Designer, and Technical Director at Augustana University in Sioux Falls, SD. She is also the Co-Volunteer Coordinator for Region 5, VP of Social Media & Publications for USITT Northern Boundary, and Production Manager for... Read More →
avatar for Jayna Gearhart Fitzsimmons

Jayna Gearhart Fitzsimmons

Augustana University
Drs. Jayna Gearhart Fitzsimmons (theatre) and Richard W. Swanson (classics, religion, and philosophy) teach at Augustana University and have developed an interdisciplinary approach to developing and collaboratively staging new work. Together, Jayna (director and dramaturg) and Richard... Read More →
avatar for Lucas Granholm

Lucas Granholm

Portfolio Review Coord, U of Minnesota Morris
Lucas Granholm is an Assistant Professor of Theatre Arts at the University of Minnesota Morris (UMN Morris), Chair for The United States Institute for Theatrical Technology Northern Boundary Section, and Program Director of the Minneapolis Green Theatre Alliance. At UMN Morris, Granholm... Read More →
Friday January 24, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am CST
Marriott Cedar Rapids (3rd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

11:00am CST

Fairytale Design Workshop: Reimagining Stories Through Technical Theatre Session 3
Friday January 24, 2025 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
Marriott Cedar Rapids (3rd Floor)
The fairytale design workshop is a three-day intensive workshop focused on collaboration and innovative theatrical designs. Each team member specializes in one technical theatre role: props, costumes, lighting, or scenic design, creating a high-concept design for classic fairytales. The final session will be presentations with guest judges and awards.
Presenters
avatar for Tetta Askeland

Tetta Askeland

Southwest Minnesota State U
Tetta M. Askeland is a scenic designer and educator currently based in Minnesota. She received her undergraduate degree from Northwestern College and received her MFA in Scenic Design and Technology from Kent State University. In addition to freelance work, Askeland teaches theatrical... Read More →
avatar for AP Pikiben

AP Pikiben

Cost. Parade Coordinator, Truman State University
AP is a professor at Truman State University. This is their second year as the Co-Coordinator for the Expo and first year as Costume Parade Coordinator. AP is excited for another year at their favorite festival!
avatar for Alex Pikiben

Alex Pikiben

Aspire Coord, Truman State University
Alex is a Lecturer of Theatre in Lights/Sound from Truman State University. He is also a freelance Light/Sound Designer from Minneapolis, MN. His past credits include Hair at Premiere Playhouse, Ride the Cyclone at Truman State, and Audio mixer at the True/False Festival. He loves... Read More →
Friday January 24, 2025 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
Marriott Cedar Rapids (3rd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

11:00am CST

Non-Production Careers for the Theatre Major
Friday January 24, 2025 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
Marriott Salon G (2nd Floor)
While university education often centers around how to do various jobs in producing theatre, this class will take a look through some of the industry that supports production.  For every actor on stage there are 10 people supporting them on the production.  For all of those, there are hundreds in different industries supporting them.  Lets take a look at what is out there.
Presenters
avatar for Matt Carroll

Matt Carroll

Electronic Theatre Controls
An alum of Emporia State University here in region 5, Matt has taken many different paths in his professional career; both in and out of production. He has worked as a Master Electrician, Freelance Designer, Sales Consultant for a Dealership, Tech Support and now management for ETC... Read More →
Friday January 24, 2025 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
Marriott Salon G (2nd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

12:30pm CST

AI in Theatre Panel
Friday January 24, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Marriott Salon G (2nd Floor)
Join us for a groundbreaking panel discussion that examines the intersection of artificial intelligence and theatre. This comprehensive workshop brings together theatre practitioners, technologists, accessibility advocates, and audiences to explore how AI is reshaping the landscape of theatrical creation and experience.
Presenters
avatar for Tetta Askeland

Tetta Askeland

Southwest Minnesota State U
Tetta M. Askeland is a scenic designer and educator currently based in Minnesota. She received her undergraduate degree from Northwestern College and received her MFA in Scenic Design and Technology from Kent State University. In addition to freelance work, Askeland teaches theatrical... Read More →
avatar for Jacee Casarella

Jacee Casarella

Co-Volunteer Coordinator, Augustana University
Jacee Casarella is an Assistant Teaching Professor, Resident Designer, and Technical Director at Augustana University in Sioux Falls, SD. She is also the Co-Volunteer Coordinator for Region 5, VP of Social Media & Publications for USITT Northern Boundary, and Production Manager for... Read More →
CH

Colin Hogan

Des Moines Area CC
avatar for Carl Lindberg

Carl Lindberg

College Fair Coordinator, Des Moines Area CC
Carl Lindberg (he/him) is an actor, director, and Professor and Chair of the Theatre & Acting Programs at Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC). He has also served DMACC as a District Chair and a Director of Guided Pathways. He has worked at regional theatres (Steppenwolf (upcoming... Read More →
Festival Leadership
avatar for Emily Cherry Oliver

Emily Cherry Oliver

Region 5 Co-Chair, University of North Dakota
Emily Cherry Oliver is the Professor and Chair of the Department of Theatre Arts at the University of North Dakota, as well as the Co-Director of the UND AI and Human Innovation Initiative. She holds a BFA in Musical Theatre and an MFA in Directing, seamlessly integrating both disciplines... Read More →
Friday January 24, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Marriott Salon G (2nd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

12:30pm CST

Faux Food for the Stage: What to use and how to make it
Friday January 24, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Marriott Salon C (2nd Floor)
Explore the world of faux food for use on stage. Plan to be dazzled with displays of some of food items I have created over the years for various productions. We will discuss some common difficulties of faux food use and construction, and I will offer practical solutions I have employed over the years to solve such issue. We'll take detailed look at creating plates of food to be used in conjunction with elements of real food. As well, there will be fun tutorial on how to create fluff coating for use for cocktails, fried coatings, and soups. And provide a reference list of good places to purchase premade faux foods.
Presenters
avatar for Devon Denn-Young

Devon Denn-Young

The Rose Theater (Omaha Theater Company for Young People)
Devon is a Region 5 Alum with a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Nebraska Wesleyan University - Lincoln & a Master of Visual and Performing Arts from Charles Stuart University, Wagga Wagga Campus - NSW, Australia. Now in her 9th season as the resident Prop Mistress & Prop Designer for The... Read More →
Friday January 24, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Marriott Salon C (2nd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

12:30pm CST

QLab and Isadora Shoot out- Projection Design Edition
Friday January 24, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Marriott Cedar Rapids (3rd Floor)
Qlab and Isadora are both video and audio playback software that supports Midi and other live camera feeds. Both have the capability to map images to a 3 dimensional surface. Both professional versions are around the same price. So which one do you choose? Come find out in this unbiased, no-holds-barred competition between two of the most common Projection Software on the market.
Presenters
avatar for Kristen Olinger

Kristen Olinger

ICON Iowa Conservatory
Kristen Olinger is the Director of Design and Production at ICON Iowa Conservatory in Iowa City. Her local work includes Projection and Lighting Design for Cornell College, Theatre Cedar Rapids, Revival Theatre Company, Cedar Rapids Opera Theatre, Riverside Theatre, Crooked Path and... Read More →
Friday January 24, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Marriott Cedar Rapids (3rd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

2:00pm CST

Draping Fundamentals
Friday January 24, 2025 2:00pm - 3:15pm CST
Marriott Salon H (2nd Floor)
A brief introduction to what draping is in the world of the costume shop! How we shape darts, gathers, tucks, and more- some of the basic foundational techniques used in fabric draping.
Presenters
avatar for Cassie Kay Hoppas

Cassie Kay Hoppas

U of Central Missouri
Cassie Kay Hoppas is the Assistant Professor of Costumes for the Division of Theatre and Dance at University of Central Missouri. Originally from Erie, Ks, Cassie completed her BFA of Theatre from Emporia State University and her MFA in Costume Design and Production from the University... Read More →
Friday January 24, 2025 2:00pm - 3:15pm CST
Marriott Salon H (2nd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

2:00pm CST

Ink and Watercolor for design.
Friday January 24, 2025 2:00pm - 3:15pm CST
Marriott Salon C (2nd Floor)
In this workshop we will discuss techniques in drawing and painting with ink and watercolor for theatre design.
Presenters
avatar for Spencer Musser

Spencer Musser

Assoc Workshop Coord, U of Central Missouri
Spencer Musser is the assistant professor of scene design and technical direction at the University of Central Missouri. He is a graduate of UMKC graduate theatre program and the Kansas City Art Institute. Since graduation he has worked and taught around the United States including... Read More →
Friday January 24, 2025 2:00pm - 3:15pm CST
Marriott Salon C (2nd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

2:00pm CST

Safety in the Theatre: The Importance of the Prep Week for Stage Management
Friday January 24, 2025 2:00pm - 3:15pm CST
Marriott Salon G (2nd Floor)
This is an in-depth workshop on the importance of prep week for the stage Management team and how it keeps our artists safe. How can you as a developing stage manager be the best prepared to start your production with safety as the priority? This workshop will give you tangible paperwork, layout expectations and help you and your stage management team to be prepared for your upcoming production.
Presenters
avatar for Iris D. Dodge

Iris D. Dodge

U of Northwestern St Paul
IRIS DODGE received her Theatrical training from University of Wisconsin River Falls and holds an MFA in Theatre-Stage Management from Yale University. As an Equity Stage Manager she has spent most of her theatrical career on the east coast working in Broadway and Off-Broadway Theatre... Read More →
Friday January 24, 2025 2:00pm - 3:15pm CST
Marriott Salon G (2nd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

2:00pm CST

Working in the Industry- Ask Me Anything
Friday January 24, 2025 2:00pm - 3:15pm CST
Marriott Waterloo (3rd Floor)
There is a difference between knowing how to do a job and know how to get hired to do it!  Lets sit down and talk about working professionally.  I'll share insight from my time as a Master Electrician in regional theatre, Freelance Designer, Sales Associate with a Dealership and with ETC, a major manufacturer of lighting equipment.
Presenters
avatar for Matt Carroll

Matt Carroll

Electronic Theatre Controls
An alum of Emporia State University here in region 5, Matt has taken many different paths in his professional career; both in and out of production. He has worked as a Master Electrician, Freelance Designer, Sales Consultant for a Dealership, Tech Support and now management for ETC... Read More →
Friday January 24, 2025 2:00pm - 3:15pm CST
Marriott Waterloo (3rd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

2:00pm CST

3D Vectorworks Scenic Modeling and Lighting
Friday January 24, 2025 2:00pm - 4:30pm CST
Marriott Cedar Rapids (3rd Floor)
3D modeling has become very popular in our industry. This workshop will demonstrate how designers can create quick scenic and lighting models and drafting for designs using Vectorworks. Feel free to bring a laptop and follow along!
Presenters
avatar for Curtis Phillips

Curtis Phillips

U of Minnesota Duluth
Curtis Phillips (cjp2designs.com) received an MFA in Scenic Design from the University of Wisconsin Madison where he studied under Joe Varga. Professional theatre credits include produced designs for Off-Off Broadway for the Mint Theatre Co and the American Globe Theatre as well as... Read More →
Friday January 24, 2025 2:00pm - 4:30pm CST
Marriott Cedar Rapids (3rd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops
 
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