Erik Flatmo

Erik Flatmo is an Assistant Professor of Scenic Design at the University of South Carolina's Department of Theatre and Dance within the McCausland College of Arts and Sciences. He holds an MFA from Yale School of Drama, a BA in Architecture from Columbia University, and a certificate in Scenography from Politecnico di Milano. His work focuses on innovative scenic design for contemporary dance, theatre, and opera productions globally.

Key educational background:

• MFA in Design, Yale School of Drama
• BA in Architecture, Columbia University
• Certificate in Scenography, POLI.design (Politecnico di Milano)

Research interests emphasize collaborative design processes, particularly with choreographer Trajal Harrell, producing world premieres in theaters, galleries, and museums. His design work spans major institutions like American Conservatory Theater, San Francisco Opera, and Yerba Buena Center for the Arts. Notable projects include Humansville (environmental walk-through installation) and Requiem Mass: A Queer Divine Rite, blending sacred spaces with queer identity.

Recent productions showcase diverse genres from classical plays (Romeo & Juliet, La Cenerentola) to avant-garde works (Mauritius, Saint Scarlet). His scenic designs prioritize immersive environments and interdisciplinary approaches, merging architecture with performance.

Teaching history includes Stanford University (14 years), Arizona State University (visiting professor), and Barnard College. Beyond academia, he collaborates in fashion and independent film, challenging conventional artistic boundaries. Current projects at USC continue his exploration of space, form, and narrative in performance.