A! Magazine for the Arts

David Hyde Jr.

David Hyde Jr.

ETSU grad takes job with Texas theater

December 31, 2014

Artisan Center Theater, Hurst, Texas, announces that David Hyde Jr., a recent graduate of East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, Tennessee, with a BA in theatre and focus on design and production, has joined Artisan as technical director for theater operations.

Hyde began his theatre career at Theatre Bristol as a child, debuting in "Beauty and the Beast," and then performing in other shows such as "Free to Be You and Me" and "Hello Dolly." He debuted as a director with "The Adventures of Peter Rabbit" and continued to be involved in many other productions. He recently designed and created the set, sound and lights for "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat" and served as technical director for "Scrooge! The Musical." He also contributed toward many improvements to the theatre's set shop, lighting, sound, resources and abilities, according to a news release from Theatre Bristol, Bristol, Tennessee.

Joe Sturgeon, Artisan Center Theater artistic director, announced the news as part of the theater's ongoing expansion over the past several years.

"With two theaters, we are now producing over 20 shows per year and having someone with the talent, education and unique theater background David brings is going to have a positive impact on all of our productions."

"David is a highly talented individual who has worked in numerous theaters across the region," said Joe Smith, a member of Glasgow Theater Company based in Northeast Tennessee. "He has designed for several big-name productions and is highly sought after by many directors. His gifts and talents will serve him well in this new capacity."

Hyde will oversee the technical and design needs of ACT's Main stage and new Children's Theater. Additionally, he will guide the part-time and volunteer groups in building sets and props.

Hyde traveled to Texas and prepared for the launching of Artisan's 2015 season with the main stage production of "All Shook Up," which opened Dec. 31, with a New Year's Eve Gala.

Hyde said, "I can hardly wait to arrive in Texas. I've been a Longhorns' fan for many years and hoped to find a career in the Lone Star State. Moving to Dallas and joining an established, growing family-friendly theatre company is what I have wanted and worked towards for many years."

"We are happy David is coming to Texas to be a part of Artisan," said DeeAnn Blair, executive producer and co-founder of Artisan Center Theater. "He began planning and designing for our New Year's Eve show while studying for his finals, so obviously, he is anxious to hit the ground running. During his visit last month for interviews, he charmed the entire staff. He will be a great addition to the team."

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