My Nonprofit Reviews

People ask me "what is USITT?" And the short answer is, it is an organization that is for all those people who work backstage, the ones you usually don't see onstage at the theatre, in the movies, or at other entertainment events. But the longer, truer answer, is that we are a community of individuals who want to share their passion for the art and craft that they love so well. Whether it is through the annual conference, where we all go to "recharge" our creative batteries, learn, find jobs and network, or simply find and connect with a group of like-minded people, or through symposium, study trips, professional training or section communities, USITT is one of the places where we get to shine a spotlight on our talents, skills and community. And might I add that since we are the ones operating the spotlight, we do an amazing job!

Originally, I went with my husband (also in theatre) because I thought I would have a "vacation". Now, 17 years later, the vacation still hasn't quite materialized the way I originally planned. However, the work that the Institute does and how it affects my creativity as an artist and designer is so much further reaching than a vacation would have been! Meeting fellow artisans and compatriots has become a wonderful personal and professional resource. And seeing the new crop of designers finding their voice and fulfilling their dreams is truly invigorating and inspiring. So the volunteer work efforts for the past 17 years have been more work than any "vacation" I have ever taken, but so much more satisfying!