Alan Schwanke

Alan is a Professional Scenic Designer and Educator, a member of the United Scenic Artists Union Local 829 (USA829), and serves as Scenic Design Mentor Representative for the United States Institute for Theatre Technology (USITT). He earned his MFA in Theatrical Stage Design (Scenic Design Emphasis) from Northwestern University and his BFA in Theatre Design & Technology from the University of Central Oklahoma. After graduating, Alan worked for four seasons as the Resident Design Assistant for The Oregon Shakespeare Festival. He then became Associate Designer to Tony Award and Olivier Award winning Scenic Designer Todd Rosenthal in Chicago. He has taught in programs around the country including as Adjunct Instructor for DePaul University (Chicago, IL), Northwestern University (Evanston, IL), and Linfield University (McMinnville, OR). Most recently, he held the position of Assistant Professor of Scenic Design at the University of Alabama Birmingham. Alan’s National Design Credits Include: Steppenwolf Theatre Co, Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, Northlight Theatre, American Music Theatre Project, Asolo Repertory, Portland Center Stage, and Artists Repertory. Associate Design Credits: Broadway, Off-Broadway, 2nd Stage Theatre, National Theatre of London, The Royal Court of London, The Goodman Theatre, The Guthrie Theatre, Mark Taper Forum, The Alliance Theatre, Arena Stage, and the Geffen Playhouse.