Alan E. Schwanke

Alan E. Schwanke is an Assistant Professor of Scenic Design in the Department of Theatre at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), part of the College of Arts and Sciences. He holds a BFA in Theatre Design & Technology from the University of Central Oklahoma and an MFA in Scenic Design from Northwestern University. A member of the United Scenic Artists Union Local 829, he has over a decade of experience as a Freelance Scenic Designer for theatre, opera, and performance, working with institutions like the Steppenwolf Theater, Goodman Theater, Guthrie Theater, and internationally with the Royal National Theater of Great Britain. His design work extends to live-action theme park productions in Beijing and feature films. He has served as a Visiting Professor at Northwestern University, DePaul University, and Willamette University, and as a Resident Design Assistant at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival. His expertise includes scenic conceptualization, drafting, and technical production.

Education:

• MFA, Scenic Design, Northwestern University
• BFA, Theatre Design & Technology, University of Central Oklahoma

Professional Highlights: Alan's career spans scenic design for Broadway-associated theaters, opera houses, and film productions. Notable roles include Associate Designer at the Royal National Theater and Set Designer for two upcoming films. He has also contributed to the Metropolitan Opera as a draftsman. His work blends technical precision with creative vision in both traditional and immersive environments.

Teaching & Mentorship: Alan has taught scenic design courses at multiple institutions, emphasizing practical skills and collaborative creativity. His academic contributions include guiding students at Willamette University and Northwestern University, alongside maintaining active freelance design projects.