Maya Michele Fein

Maya Michele Fein is an Associate Professor in Lighting Design and Technology at Baldwin Wallace University, where she integrates theatre, music, visual art, technology, science, and psychology into her pedagogical approach. She conceptualizes lighting design as "composing music for the eyes," emphasizing emotional narrative arcs in performance.

Education:

• M.F.A. in Stage Design & Teaching Certificate, Northwestern University
• B.F.A. in Theatre (Lighting Design) & B.S. in Psychology with Shakespeare Studies Minor, Southern Oregon University

Research Focus: Fein's work centers on innovative theatre pedagogy, particularly gamification techniques, and the development of Interconnected: The Tangle—a dance theatre production exploring mental health through authentic narratives. Her interdisciplinary practice bridges technical design with psychological frameworks to enhance performative storytelling.

Professional Credits: Notable lighting designs include:

• Lizzie (Firebrand Theatre)
• A Kurt Weill Cabaret (Theo Ubique)
• Ain’t Misbehavin’ (Porchlight Music Theatre)
• Talley’s Folly (New Harmony Theatre)
• Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time (University of Southern Indiana)