Darren McCroom

Darren McCroom serves as Associate Professor of Lighting Design in the Department of Theatre and Dance within Western Washington University's College of Fine and Performing Arts. With 34 years of professional experience, his work has been presented across the USA, Rome, and Asia at institutions including Actors Theatre of Louisville, Berkeley Repertory Theatre, Lincoln Center Institute, and the Oregon Shakespeare Festival.

He earned an MFA from the University of Illinois and BFA from Rockford College, with prior teaching appointments at Jackson State University and Texas State University. His educational background informs his dual commitment to academic instruction and professional practice.

McCroom's creative scholarship focuses on theatrical lighting design, integrating technical precision with artistic expression in stage and dance productions. His methodology emphasizes narrative enhancement through innovative illumination techniques and spatial dynamics.

Notable professional recognitions include:

• 2010 Falstaff Award for "Throne of Blood" (Oregon Shakespeare Festival)
• Best Lighting Design for "Fish Head Soup"
• NAACP nomination for Best Lighting Design for "Looking over the President's Shoulder"

While specific research grants and current student mentorship details are not documented in available sources, his extensive production portfolio demonstrates consistent engagement with emerging designers through practical industry collaboration and academic instruction.