Dan Hanessian

Dan Hanessian has been a professional theatre technician and professor for over 30 years. His work has included Broadway, Film, Television, Opera, Dance, Themed Entertainment, Las Vegas spectaculars, Live Events, and a host of other productions.

This range of experience provides Dan with a unique perspective on problem solving and how to work collaboratively. These skills, combined with a deep understanding of how the industry works allows up-and-coming technical directors and production managers the opportunity to gain insights and knowledge that prepares them for careers in all areas of the entertainment industry, which is why alumni from Design/Technology are leaders in a wide range of areas within the entertainment industry. Their work is central to Broadway, concert tours, dance, opera, events, and so much more.

As the founder of the Broadway Technical Theatre History Project Dan is focused on making sure that the professionals behind the scenes are being recognized and remembered. The recipients of the Backstage Legends and Masters Award reflect a who’s who of the Broadway technical theatre world. This annual ceremony takes place each spring and focusses attention on the central – and often unheralded – role that individuals working backstage have played over their careers.

A proud member of IATSE (Local’s 74 and 52), USITT, and the point person for the Design/Technology membership with ESTA, Dan has been featured on the StageLync Podcast and works with a number of organizations that are building pathways into the industry for high school students interested in technical theatre.

If you are serious about a career in technical theatre, Design/Technology at Purchase College, SUNY is the place for you.