Alumna is Technical Director at Lincoln Park Performing Arts Center Monday, February 17, 2014
Meet Caitlin E. Howley
Degree earned: B.A. in technical theatre, 2009
Job title and employer: Technical director at Lincoln Park Performing Arts Center
Hometown: Havertown, Pa.
Now living in: Midland, Pa.
High School: State College Area High School
Hobbies/interests: Knitting, bowling, softball and reading
Why did you choose to attend Point Park for technical theatre?
I was drawn to the hands-on experience that the theatre program offered; for me there is nothing better than a hands-on education. I even apply the same hands-on approach with my own students.
What was it like being a Conservatory of Performing Arts student?
It was time consuming and intense, but I wouldn't trade that experience for the world. Every day was a challenge and an adventure. My experience was full of learning about the inner workings of the different departments, trying to juggle academic classes with the Conservatory's requirements, and all of the other requirements make a multitasker out of the most self-proclaimed procrastinators (me).
What's a typical day like for you?
My day starts with a stop at the theater to check in with the stage management team and the executive staff. When all business is complete, I head to our off-site construction center where I have a team of carpenters and painters who work on each one of our productions. Sometimes we rent a set in so we are building pieces that are cohesive with what has come in. Other times we are building a show from the ground up. That involves lots of communication with our designers.
My job is to take a design and break it down for budgeting and drafting. Once I have turned the drawings into a plan to build from, I pass that off to my carpenters and then just provide support and answer questions. On special days I get to hit the build floor myself, I try to save some of the fun projects for myself. I don't think I will ever want to give up getting my hands dirty!
Why would you recommend Point Park to a prospective student?
I have recommended Point Park to many students and I will continue to do so. Point Park provided me with a hands-on experience like no other undergraduate program. You will experience theatre from every angle and from the inside out. It also teaches you so much about yourself and how you collaborate with others.
The location is also amazing. Downtown Pittsburgh has so much to offer in the arts. I spent time outside of the Pittsburgh Playhouse working for other theaters in town, even having a chance to join the union and work on large touring productions.
Anything else you would like to add?
I wouldn't change my experience for the world. I am so proud of the program that helped to shape me in to the professional woman I am today. I am proud to be a Point Park Pioneer.