Staff Spotlight - Eric Thompson

Every couple of months we will be shining a spotlight on a staff member who really makes everything come together at Barksdale Theatre. Our first Staff Spotlight focuses on an amazing person you may not have seen on our stage, but someone who is nonetheless vital to making sure that you as an audience member get to see a first rate production.

ERIC THOMPSON, Master Electrician

As the Master Electrician for Barksdale Theatre and Theatre IV, Eric is responsible for all electronics used during performances. That means maintaining and repairing equipment, and overseeing the hanging, connecting, gelling, focusing and safety chaining of all stage lighting fixtures.

One of the most interesting things about Eric is his background as an opera singer. Among the operas that he's performed in, his favorite is Rigoletto by Giuseppe Verdi. His dream opera is Le Villi by Puccini. We asked Eric how an opera singer ends up as a Master Electrician; his response- "Lighting is my second passion. And it helps to pay the bills."

Hopefully we’ll see Eric onstage soon, singing his lungs out.

Eric has been happily married for 14 years and has three beautiful children. As a final note, Eric says, "If you happen to be in the Newport News area check out Mitty’s Ristorante for a romantic and delicious night out."

*Information gathered by Catherine Dudley.

For more information on staff from Theatre IV go to http://www.theatreivrichmond.org/blog.html