Malcolm Campbell joined Civic as our new Technical Director this June. A technical theatre graduate of Western Michigan University, Malcolm comes with a wide variety of experience to bring to the Civic stage. In the past, he worked for places like Fox Valley Repertory Theatre, Von Heidecke Ballet, and Drury Lane Theatre. Since he started at Civic, he’s been working on the two SRTI productions – Hairspray Jr. and The Neverending Story!
Recently, we asked Malcolm a few questions about his love for theatre, his past experiences, and his future at Civic.
How did you fall in love with theatre arts?
Like most, my infatuation with the performing arts began in high school. There is an inimitable attraction in the ephemeral nature of performing arts. A film will always play the same way each viewing. A painting, barring the ravages of time, will remain unchanged. But each live performance is unique and the next night’s show will be similar, but not exactly the same. An experience is created and unintentionally personalized for and by the audience that views it.
From all of your experience, which production has been your favorite to work on, and why?
I would have to say Northern Illinois University’s production of The Caucasian Chalk Circle by Brecht. It had a fantastic concept: Set in a Soviet satellite country in the throes of the collapse of the Soviet Union, the black box space was transformed into a crumbling derelict building with scenic elements entirely surrounding the audience. The gaps in the walls were covered by strung tarps. Pieces of twisted rebar, concrete, and construction I-Beams were moved by the actors to create each scene. It was great fun.
What has the experience at civic been like so far?
Life at Civic is pretty good! Navigating the labyrinthine depths of the facility has proven to be quite the adventure.
“I LOVE WORKING WITH the TEAM OF DEDICATED PROFESSIONALS here AND PRODUCING SO MANY SHOWS EACH YEAR.”
What’s one of the most important lessons that you’ve learned as an experienced technical director?
Tech rehearsals can be pretty stressful. So, I’ve learned to bring candy to tech/dress rehearsals and meetings. People can’t be mad at you if you’ve given them candy!
You’re currently working on sets for SRTI. Are there any interesting pieces that we should expect at the show?
There could be some literal sparks in Hairspray Jr. …you’ll have to come to the show to find out!
A sneak peak of the Hairspray Jr. set at the Civic scene shop.
BONUS Question: If you were power tool in the scene shop, what would you be and why?
A CNC Router table. Because I want one.
HAIRSPRAY JR. AND THE NEVERENDING STORY ARE ON THE CIVIC STAGE
JULY 28 – AUGUST 6.
PURCHASE YOUR TICKETS HERE.
Interested in learning more about Malcolm and his role at Civic?
Come to our open house!
Tuesday, August 1 from 6PM – 8PM! No RSVP needed.