Moraine Valley graduate plays a pivotal role in Fine & Performing Arts Center

When Amanda Hantson first came to Moraine Valley as a student, she was searching for a quality education and viable career paths to pursue. Nearly 20 years later, Hantson has established herself as a key member of Moraine Valley’s Fine & Performing Arts Center as assistant technical director.

Hantson began taking classes in September 2007 and initially was unsure what a career in stage production or technical theater might look like. With guidance from professors Craig Rosen, Lee Brasuell and Tom Dow, she explored the possibilities within technical theater and gained hands-on experience working on both professional and Academic Theater productions. Their support also helped Hantson secure her first job in technical theater.

“I did not truly understand how many different avenues there were in technical theatre,” Hantson said. “Brasuell took a chance on a kid right out of high school who wanted to keep learning and doing theater. They hired professional designers whom we were able to work with and learn from.”

After graduating from Moraine Valley in 2010 with an associate in arts degree, Hantson attended the University of Illinois at Chicago, where she expanded her knowledge of theatre production and design. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Theatre in 2013. After graduation, Hantson worked as a freelancer for multiple venues, including College of DuPage, Beverly Arts Center, Joe’s Live, Paramount, North Shore Center for the Performing Arts, Stonewold Studio, GAND Concert Sound and the Rialto.

As Moraine Valley’s assistant technical director, Hantson’s responsibilities include managing the college’s sound equipment, coordinating road show details, overseeing student volunteers/experienced crew and working with the production team on set design and construction. She continues to freelance with other Chicago-area theaters and travels to work on small musicals. Within the past year, Hanston has been scheduled for at least ten additional engagements across the country.

Even as she works on her 18th season of productions, Hantson still reflects on the education and encouragement she received at Moraine Valley, including the advice not to be afraid to ask people for guidance or help. As a proud Moraine Valley alumna, she continues to give back to the community that helped shape her career. Her success highlights the lasting impact of the college’s Theatre Program.

“I truly love what I do for a living,” Hantson concluded.