معرفی
Eric Van Tassell serves as Assistant Professor of Lighting and Sound Design at Hope College, teaching in both the Department of Dance and Department of Theatre since joining the faculty in 2019. He instructs courses including Introduction to Theatre, Stage Production I, Dance Production, Theatre Crafts, and specialized labs in lighting and sound design while also serving as a designer and technician for numerous productions throughout the academic year.
His educational background includes:
- MFA in Lighting Design and Technology from University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (2018)
- B.A. in Theatre from Hope College (2006)
Professor Van Tassell specializes in theatrical lighting and sound design with significant expertise in production management. His professional approach combines technical precision with artistic vision, developed through diverse experiences ranging from experimental storefront theaters to major national venues. His work demonstrates particular strength in creating atmospheric environments that enhance narrative and emotional impact across various theatrical genres, from classical adaptations to contemporary original works. He has established himself as particularly adept at translating complex themes into visual and auditory experiences that serve both performers and audiences.
His award-winning portfolio demonstrates consistent excellence in lighting design across a wide range of productions, with notable recognition including the Wilde Award for Best One-Person Show (An Iliad, 2019) and selection for the Kennedy Center National College Dance Festival (2018).
His professional honors include:
- Wilde Award for Best One-Person Show (An Iliad), 2019
- Kennedy Center National College Dance Festival selection, 2018
- Non-Equity Jeff Award for Best Play (The Mother), 2014
- BroadwayWorld Chicago Award Nominee for Non-Equity Lighting Design
- Andes Award for Favorite Lighting Design (Meadow Brook Theatre)
Professor Van Tassell is deeply committed to student development, training emerging technicians and designers both in classroom settings and through practical production experience as co-leader of the Arts Technical Staff. He provides individual mentorship on specific projects, fostering hands-on learning that bridges academic theory with professional practice. His extensive industry connections, developed through 15 years of professional work at venues including The Kennedy Center, provide valuable networking opportunities for students.
As a core member of Hope College's production teams, he collaborates with faculty and staff across departments to realize ambitious theatrical visions. His dual appointment in both Dance and Theatre departments positions him uniquely to create integrated design solutions that serve the distinctive needs of both disciplines while maintaining cohesive artistic vision across productions.
