Michael McNamara

Michael McNamara is an Associate Professor in the Department of Theatre and Dance at Purdue University's Rueff School of Design, Art, and Performance, serving as Faculty Lighting Designer and Coordinator of Design and Production. He brings extensive professional experience including eight years as Resident Assistant Lighting Designer at Washington National Opera (50+ productions) and roles at Canadian Opera Company, New Israeli Opera, and Royal Opera London.

Education:

• Master of Fine Arts in Stage Design, Northwestern University
• Bachelor of Science in Theatre Arts, Carroll University

His creative research focuses on lighting design for theatre and opera, evidenced by international productions and the Joseph Jefferson Award-winning design for The Turn of the Screw. As co-author of Designing with Light: An Introduction to Stage Lighting, he contributes significantly to pedagogical frameworks in stage technology.

Professional Recognition:

• 2012 Joseph Jefferson Award for Lighting Design of The Turn of the Screw
• 2017 Founders’ Award from Midwest Regional Section of USITT

As an educator, McNamara integrates active professional practice (including recent work at Canadian Opera Company) with academic instruction. His leadership as Coordinator of Design and Production shapes departmental production standards while his guest artist roles at multiple universities extend his pedagogical influence. Professional memberships include United Scenic Artists Local USA-829, Illuminating Engineering Society, and USITT where he previously served as Director.

His departmental role encompasses mentoring students in lighting design while maintaining connections to major opera and theatre networks that provide students with industry exposure and potential career pathways.