Dan J. Kotlowitz

Dan J. Kotlowitz serves as the Leon E. Williams Professor of Theater at Dartmouth College, where he joined the faculty in 1995 as Lighting Designer for the Theater Department. His academic role focuses on integrating technical design with theatrical performance within the institution's arts framework.

His educational background includes:

• B.A. from Grinnell College
• M.F.A. from the University of Wisconsin at Madison

Specializing in Lighting Design and Projection Design for Theater and Dance, Kotlowitz pioneers innovative approaches to stage illumination that enhance narrative depth and emotional resonance. His work bridges classical techniques with contemporary digital projection, emphasizing how light sculpts spatial dynamics and character psychology in live performance.

Recent productions reveal a sustained focus on Shakespearean works (Romeo and Juliet, King Lear) alongside modern classics (A Doll's House, The Skin of Our Teeth), demonstrating technical mastery across diverse theatrical genres. His 2023-2025 projects for Hartford Stage and Northern Stage highlight evolving expertise in large-scale musical productions like Beauty and the Beast.

Key honors include:

• Melville Straus Fellow (2000)
• John M. Manley Huntington Memorial Award for outstanding teaching and research (2008)
• Petit Family Fellow (2010)

He actively mentors students through courses including Theater 10.08: Creativity and Collaboration, Theater 44: Lighting Design, and Theater 45: Composition and Design, though specific student advisees aren't documented. Current works in progress indicate continued engagement with major regional theaters.