About
Karen Cook is a full-time Lecturer in Lighting at the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA), part of Edith Cowan University. Her career spans lighting design, stage management, and technical theatre education, with extensive industry experience across Australia and internationally.
- Education
- Advanced Diploma of Lighting for Performance, Edith Cowan University (2005)
- Bachelor of Arts Communication and Cultural Studies, Curtin University of Technology (2002)
Karen specializes in lighting design for theatre and performance, collaborating with renowned companies such as Black Swan State Theatre Company, The Last Great Hunt, and Spare Parts Puppet Theatre. Her work has been recognized with multiple Blue Room Theatre Awards, including Best Production and Members’ Choice distinctions.
She previously served as Hayman Theatre Coordinator and Technical Theatre instructor at Curtin University, and has toured extensively as a stage manager, working in diverse venues from regional town halls to major performing arts centers. Karen’s expertise bridges creative practice with technical education in the performing arts sector.
- Scientific & Artistic Awards
- Blue Room Theatre Award - Best Production (2017)
- Blue Room Theatre Award - Members’ Choice (2017)
- Blue Room Theatre Award - Best Production (2008)
- Blue Room Theatre Award - Best Production Team (2008)
