Staff Profile: Ken Harrelson, Technical Director/ Facility Manager, Angelle Hall

In order to highlight the important contributions of our staff to the college mission, and to introduce them to the entire college, we would like to ‘Spotlight’ a staff member for each enews.  In this issue, we highlight Ken Harrelson.

Job Title: Technical Director/ Facility Manager, Angelle Hall

Job Duties:

So. Many. Hats. Primarily arrange and manage all productions in the Auditorium.

What do people think you do?

Apparently, I hide backstage in a cave, waiting for students to sneak onto the stage so I can scare them.

What do you actually do?

Rental contracts, insurance, logistics, technical direction, scheduling events and workers, lighting design, sound engineering, Stage Management, rigging, etc. Whatever it takes to get a production/performance to happen

How long have you worked for the for the College of the Arts?

To date, 12 and 1/2 years. I came to UL on July 1, 2007.

What is your favorite part of your job?

Getting to listen to music or see a production I haven’t seen before.

What is your favorite time of the day or week?

On a workday? Morning. My coffee and I get so much more done then than any other time. On a day off? Morning, because I get to sleep in.

What do you think is your most important contribution to your area or the college?

Constantly working towards improving the auditorium facility to be a modern performance venue, for the benefit of our students learning to work and perform in such a space, and for the improvement of all productions in the venue.

What do you want the rest of the college to know about you?

I am a certified Actor/Combatant with the Society of American Fight Directors. My favorite weapons are the swords, and I enjoy teaching stage combat to those new to the art.

What do you think that your co-workers would be surprised to learn about you?

I am a nerd. Star Trek, Star Wars and Dr Who are ALL cool.

(OK, that’s not REALLY a surprise)

What is your favorite pastime or hobby?

Reading/watching sci-fi/fantasy, Stage Combat, writing stories, playing games, (I cant choose just ONE favorite, I like to do them ALL) Anything and everything that allows me to exercise my imagination and creativity.

Anything else you want to add to let us know you better?

I think that pretty much covers it. J