Ethan Chichester

(832) 341-1373 · ethan.chichester21@gmail.com

Hi, I’m Ethan Chichester, a Technical Director, Production Manager, and Entertainment Technician from Houston, Texas. After serving in the U.S. Army, I transitioned into the theater and live entertainment industry, where I’ve spent the past several years earning a BFA in Theater Design & Technology from SUNY Purchase College in New York.

I thrive on the challenge of transforming creative concepts into functional, tangible designs. The intricate problem-solving required to bring these ideas to life is what drives my passion. From Technical Direction to Production Management, I enjoy every aspect of the production process—from bid to load-out—ensuring that each project is executed with precision and creativity.

Whether it’s Technical design, managing complex logistics, rigging or collaborating with talented teams, I’m committed to making sure every production runs smoothly and successfully.

Professional Experience

Over Hire Carpenter

Alley Theatre, Houston, Texas

Carpenter for the load-out of A Christmas Carol. Also assisted with the disassembly and loading of scenery onto trucks.

January, 2025

Scenic Installer

Show Canada, Orlando, Florida

Installed permanent scenery, battens, and soft goods for the stage of a themed, live immersive experience at Universal's Epic Universe Park.

May - August, 2024

Mechanized Infantryman

United States Army

Served as a dismounted Grenadier and in a weapons squad for two years. Transitioned to a mounted leadership role as a Bradley IFV gunner and section team leader. Completed service with the rank of Corporal.

January 2018 - April 2021

Educational Experience

Technical Director

Purchase BA Theatre, Orlando

Oversaw a small team in technical design, fabrication, rigging, installation, and strike of scenic elements. Managed logistics for purchasing large custom curtains and supervised the design and fabrication of four custom Kabuki and curtain manipulation systems to create a tableau look.

September - November 2024

Production Carpenter

Purchase Repertory Theatre, Titus Andronicus

Managed scenic installations in a large black box theater, collaborating closely with rigging, electrical, and sound departments to ensure seamless spatial coordination. Oversaw the precise alignment of a rigged ceiling with the deck below. Developed and maintained schedules and timelines for all departments, ensuring efficient workflow and on-time project completion.

April - May, 2024

Draftsman

Purchase Repertory Theatre, Titus Andronicus

Produced detailed technical and installation drawings for a 16'x40' deck and adapted purchased columns for fabrication in the shop.

February - April, 2024

Production Rigger

Purchase Repertory Theatre, Socretes

Designed and produced a comprehensive rigging plot for a large, black box theater, leading both the installation and strike of the system. Utilized chain motors, and a hemp system to suspend a large 21' arch, 14'x20' tracking walls, and masking. In conjunction with the production electrician and audio team, I coordinated the hanging of lighting and sound equipment efficiently.

October - November, 2023

Lead Technical Designer

Purchase Repertory Theatre, Socrates

Developed technical drawings for the fabrication of the 8'x48' deck, fascia, and wagons.

September - October, 2023

Lead Shop Carpenter

Purchase Repertory Theatre, Orpheus Descending

Facilitated the construction of scenery with a two-person team, developed the cut lists, determined fabrication methods, and mentored first-year students on the safe and effective use of power and bench tools.

September - October, 2022