Mark Viola

Mark Viola is a Lecturer in the Theatre Design/Technology program within the Conservatory of Theatre Arts at Purchase College, SUNY. He has been a longstanding member of the faculty and contributes extensive professional experience from his role as Vice President of Showman Fabricators, Inc., a leading company in theatrical and event fabrication.

His educational background includes a BFA from Purchase College, SUNY, where he studied technical direction in the same program he now teaches in. This deep institutional connection underscores his commitment to training the next generation of theatre technicians and designers.

Mark Viola's research and professional interests center on technical innovation in theatre production. His work spans advanced wood and metal fabrication, automation systems, electrical integration, scenic art, and graphics for performance environments. These interests are deeply applied, reflecting a career that bridges academic instruction with real-world implementation across Broadway, television, corporate events, cruise ships, and museums.

The available data does not include any recent publications or articles, so no trends in scholarly output can be analyzed at this time.

• No scientific awards or honors are mentioned in the provided text.

While there is no explicit list of advisees or grant-funded research projects, Viola’s role as a lecturer and industry leader suggests mentorship of students through practical training and possibly internships or collaborative projects with Showman Fabricators. His teaching extends beyond Purchase College, having instructed at Yale School of Drama and the North Carolina School of the Arts, highlighting his national influence in theatre education.

Mark Viola is a key figure in the Broadway Technical Theatre History Project and remains actively connected to the alumni network of the Theatre Design/Technology program. His company, Showman Fabricators, Inc., functions as a professional extension of his academic work, serving as a de facto lab or training ground for students entering the field of live entertainment technology.