Steven Schmidt

Steven Schmidt is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Theatre and Dance at the University of California, Davis, where he contributes to the academic and practical training of students in entertainment engineering and technical production. He oversees scenic construction for productions at prominent regional theaters including A.C.T., Magic Theatre, Shotgun Players, and Berkeley Playhouse.

His educational background includes an M.F.A. in Technical Design and Production from the Yale School of Drama, obtained on October 9, 2018.

Steven Schmidt's research and professional interests center around theatrical design and technical execution, with a focus on scenic construction and structural stage design. His expertise bridges academic instruction and professional theater production, contributing to both pedagogy and live performance innovation.

He is a co-author of Structural Design for the Stage (2nd edition) and has presented at the United States Institute for Theatre Technology, reflecting his engagement with broader professional communities in stage technology and design.

Steven Schmidt has advised students and alumni participating in professional productions, such as the adaptation of Lear at California Shakespeare Theater, supporting hands-on learning experiences through industry collaboration.

He was a founding member of Barnyard Theatre and has held significant roles including Associate Head of Production at Yale Repertory Theatre, as well as consulting work for the Oregon Shakespeare Festival and Berkeley Repertory Theatre.