Biography
Joe C. Klug
is a live performance Scenic Designer whose goal is to re-engage an audience that is disconnected by a social media driven society. Through his work exploring, shifting, and challenging the traditional relationship between audience and performance, he aims to connect viewers in new ways with stage-based stories. Joe’s paradigm-changing scenic design work has been seen in theaters across the country. In 2018 Live Design acknowledged Joe’s impact in “30 Under 30,” a feature on the young movers and shakers rising to the forefront of their field. In 2020 Joe was honored with Live Design and USITT’s Rising Star Award, recognizing emerging professionals for their artistic achievement. Joe is a proud member of USA Local 829 and an Assistant Professor of Scenic Design at the School of Theatre, Film & Television at the University of Arizona.
Artistic Statement
As a young scenic designer and theatre professional from the center of the country, I have reimagined giant Broadway productions to speak to regional and local audiences throughout the States. I am inspired by the essential humanity these stories highlight and tap into my midwestern background where divides hide just under the surface, to create experiences where, at least for one performance, regardless of your beliefs, you can share a laugh or a sob, and find common ground.
In my role at UArizona, I have developed both linear and non-script based storytelling skills and how they relate to shaping space and audience experience. I believe the future of design consists of being able to engage audiences in conversations with performance both as passive observers and as interactive participants in the performance experience.
Upcoming Projects
"Matilda"
Garden Theatre
Orlando Florida November 2020
"Scrooge in Rouge"
Oregon Cabaret Theatre
Ashland Oregon November 2020
President Robbins Production Designer
University of Arizona Presidents Office
Tucson Arizona november 2020