Aaron Chvatal

Aaron Chvatal is a Visiting Assistant Professor of Theater and Costume Director at Whitman College. He holds an MFA in Costume Design and Technology from the University of Missouri–Kansas City and a BA in Theatre from Hamline University. His career spans over a decade of national costume design work across theater, opera, and dance. Chvatal specializes in designing for productions emphasizing BIPOC perspectives, collaborating with companies like Penumbra Theatre Company, Theater Mu, and History Theatre. His notable credits include world-premiere operas Mayo and Falling Angel, six seasons as Resident Costume Designer for Opera on the James, and roles at the Castleton Opera Festival and Seagle Festival.

Research interests focus on costume design's role in cultural storytelling, particularly amplifying underrepresented narratives. He has maintained active professional affiliations with major institutions including Minnesota Opera's Project Opera and the University of Kentucky, where he served as Resident Costume Designer prior to joining Whitman.

Advising and grants: No specific advising roles or grant details noted in available texts. Professional experience emphasizes collaborative design projects across educational and commercial theaters. Current position integrates teaching with practical costume design mentorship for Whitman's theater programs.

Labs/teams: Affiliated with Harper Joy Theatre facilities at Whitman College, contributing to costume design for campus productions.