Sam Bay Email & Phone Number

Washington, District Of Columbia, United States

In this role, I worked within a small full-time team to ensure the safe construction and installation of all scenic design elements for both of Signature's configurable performance spaces. This means building from the ground up- Across a 7 show season, we build new Stage and riser configurations in order to provide different immersive experiences, as well as install all of the additional staging, rigging, and automation that each show may require. This role requires us to have considerable experience in reading technical draftings, creating cutlists, and using a large range of carpentry shop tools. Additonally, one is expected to have knowledge in MIG welding, in common theatrical rigging techniques & hardware, with Creative Connors automation equipment, and with being able to lead a crew of overhire hands to work with us to transport, install, and dismantle each set.

I work on short contract gigs to secure the design, acquisition, construction, and organization of rehearsal and show props for a given production. I also keep track of all props spending as to remain in budget with the production's allotment for the department. Further, I attend all design and production meetings (as well as technical rehearsals) to ensure that my designs remain on par with the rest of the design teams vision. If needed, I fully construct, make alterations, and/or add finishing touches to all props as needed and ensure that all maintenance instructions are left clearly and concisely for the remaining run crew. Companies that I've worked with include The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts Theatre for Young Audiences, as well as The Forbes Center for the Performing Arts.

I worked as a team player to help support the needs of the Technical Director in different set building needs, from painting to carpentry. In this role, I've color matched paint as provided by the scenic designer, and worked to paint the majority of the finishing details of a multipaneled blue & pink scenic design. I also worked on the strike and clean up of the set after closing.

I worked to mentor the student props designers in how to properly oversee the purchase, construction, alteration, and maintenance of all props pertaining to JMU School of Theatre and Dance Mainstage season. I also managed the workflow of about 5-10 student employees, 5-25 scenic practicum students, and 1-4 student designers per semester. In our time between productions, I ensured the upkeep of all tools and material stock in our build shop, as well as the onside props stock and offsite warehouse storage facilities. I would also be requested on occasion to instruct general tool training to students or become an additional team lead to aid the scenic carpentry team, scene shop supervisor, and TD with the build/construction/painting/load-in of set elements.

In this role I worked with a team of students (Lead by a staff Scene Shop Supervisor and Faculty TD) to construct, install, and strike all sets for the JMU School of Theatre and Dance's Mainstage season. Later I was also hired on as props staff where I began crafting specialty props and helped managed the organization and upkeep of the props stock. It was in this role that I gained proficiency with a variety of different power tools, Including Miter Saws, Panel Saws, Saw-Stop Table Saws, Hand & Standing Band Saws, Reciprocating Saws, Jig Saws, Abrasive Chop Saws, Scroll Saws, Hand & Table Routers, Belt & Orbital Sanders, Rotary tools, Drill Presses, Drill & Impact Drivers, Angle Grinders, and Bench Grinders. I also gained skill with the use of most common hand tools (screwdrivers, hammers/mallets, Japanese handsaws, vise grips, files, wrenches, & pliers) common knots, several scenic painting techniques (like wood & marbling) and knowledge with common materials used in the construction of set designs. I also have some rudimentary experience in MIG Welding.

Bachelor Of Arts - Ba, Theatre/Theater, 3.7 Gpa

Activities and Societies: USITT, Alpha Psi Omega Fraternity, Stratford PlayersI graduated in May of 2022, Magna Cum Laude, with a B.A..

High School Diploma, 3.9 Gpa