Stephanie Cluggish

Stephanie Cluggish is a Clinical Assistant Professor at the School of Theatre and Music, University of Illinois Chicago. She holds an MFA in Stage Design from Northwestern University (2015) and a BFA in Theater Design and Technology from Emerson College. Her career spans freelance costume and scenic design, academic roles, and leadership in the USA 829 union.

• Key Affiliations: University of Illinois Chicago (2018–present), Haymarket Opera Company, Northwestern University, Lookingglass Theatre Company.

Her research interests focus on costume and scenic design for theatre and opera, with a passion for historical and contemporary adaptations. She has contributed to over 25 professional projects, including operas like Marc'Antonio e Cleopatra and plays such as The Firebirds Take the Field, exploring themes of social dynamics and community narratives.

Scientific Awards:

• Michael Merritt Achievement Award

As a member of USA 829, she chairs the Central Region Best Practices Committee for the Costume Department, working on a handbook expected in Spring 2025.

Her recent projects include TAPS Winter Dance Showcase (2023) and Yerma (2022), while upcoming works involve Mattias Vestergaard’s opera TITANIC and Haymarket Opera Company’s ARTASERSE.