I have an incredible opportunity to attend NYU (New York University) in New York City this summer for a four-week high school intensive program, July 6-Aug 2, 2025. This program would give me the opportunity to be immersed in the Technical Theatre curriculum and complete 6 hours of college credits. There were 800 applicants and 305 were accepted into the program, with only 14 focusing on Technical Theatre. I am very honored to have been chosen to attend!

I'd like to ask that if you feel inclined to donate and help me to meet my financial goal for tuition, room and board, and meals, please do so. My tuition would be due May 6, 2025. Please consider donating prior to April 1st for me to complete my final payment. I would be incredibly grateful for any and all of your support.

You can review my bio below.

Micheal's Technical Theatre Student & Lighting Designer Biography

I am Micheal, a dedicated Technical Theatre student at a high school in Columbus, Georgia, with a deep passion for the creative and technical aspects of stage production. My journey in the arts began in the Orchestra program, but during my freshman year, I discovered my true calling in Technical Theatre. Since then, I have immersed myself in the field, specializing in lighting design and stage production.

What I love most about theatre is its dynamic and collaborative nature. Each production presents a unique set of challenges, requiring creativity, problem-solving, and attention to detail. From selecting color palettes and lighting effects to designing immersive stage environments, I thrive in the process of bringing performances to life. Lighting, in particular, captivates me because of its ability to evoke emotions, shape moods, and enhance storytelling.

Experience & Achievements

With experience in over 30 productions, I have contributed to a diverse range of performances, including:

Miss Georgia Competition – Lighting installation and scenic element integration

Shrek The Musical – Sound operator and Scenic Carpenter

Evolution – Lighting Designer

Urinetown – Assistant Technical Director (selected to perform at Thescon, one of only 25 productions chosen)

2025 All State Theatre Opening and Closing Production – Follow Spot Operator (Georgia Thespians)

My dedication to Technical Theatre has earned me recognition at state competitions:

First Runner-Up, Technical Theatre Challenge – GA Thescon 2024 (Team Captain)

First Runner-Up, BACKstage Challenge – GA Thescon 2025 (Team Captain)

Performance Technician Award – GA Thescon 2025

Professional Experience

Beyond school productions, I have gained hands-on industry experience, including:

Working with a local audio video service company, where I am an overhire within the company.

Serving as the house Lighting Designer for Prodigy Dance and Academy Dance, where I applied creative lighting techniques to enhance performance aesthetics.

Personal Philosophy & Future Goals

My experiences in Technical Theatre have reinforced the importance of teamwork, adaptability, and precision. I take pride in knowing that my work contributes to the seamless execution of a production, whether through lighting design, set construction, or stage management. Every performance is a collaborative effort, and I am committed to continuously refining my craft.

Outside of theatre, I enjoy spending time outdoors with my family, balancing my creative pursuits with academics. I am always seeking opportunities to expand my knowledge and skill set, with the ultimate goal of attending a college that offers a specialized program in Technical Theatre with a focus on Lighting Design.

I am grateful for the mentors, peers, and experiences that have shaped my journey, and I look forward to the exciting opportunities that lie ahead in my creative career.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION TO DONATE.