Christopher O’Neil has been working as a theatre technician since 1987 when a classmate turned to him in their Pre-Calculus Class (which they were both failing miserably) and said – ‘hey I’ve got a great idea for a play and I need someone to build scenery.’ After Sister Pat finished taking them to task for speaking in class, Chris found himself hooked.
Working at The Providence College Scene shop got him introduced at Trinity Rep in 1988 and he started working there to pay his way at school running spot lights, audio consoles and then taking a position as electrician board operator after graduating in 1992.
Chris’s career took a new direction when a friend offered a position as stage manager/lighting technician for Holland America Cruise Lines in March 1994. It was tough to leave behind friends, family and Trinity Rep, but winters being what they are in New England, Chris was happy to heed the call of the sea. For 6 years, Chris sailed 8 different Cruise Ships for up to 8 months at a time. Highlights of those six years include taking 2 world cruises – each requiring a new show be ready every day for 110 days. Installing state of the art equipment and working shakedown for the Rotterdam 6 at Fincantieri shipyards in Venice and Trieste. When not working, Chris also enjoyed SCUBA-diving in the Caribbean and South Pacific, kayaking in Alaska and experiencing the many cultures of shipmates and ports-of-call all over the world.
Returning to Providence in 2001 Chris found Providence a city much improved and settled down again near family and friends. Working for 2 years in corporate presentations was profitable, but unsatisfying so Chris was happy to take his position with Brown University Theatre, Speech & Dance in 2003. He has been working hard to support the education of students and direction of faculty ever since. Every day a new day, a new challenge. Chris has also been active in the University community including acting as an advisory member to Roberts Campus Center (Faunce House) Renewal Project, Creative Arts Center Building Committee, Alumnae Hall Lighting and Rigging Safety Upgrade Project, Staff Advisory Committee 2007-2008 and BEAR Day 2008 Committee. Chris also instructs TSDA-1100 Theatre Management in the fall semester.
Chris is very interested in local politics and exploring how the arts and local government can work together to improve the lives of young and old. Chris has recently completed a 6-year commitment to The Attleboro Cultural Council working to at the local level to improve cultural opportunities and increase exposure to the arts for citizens. In 2002 Chris also spent time on 2 sub-committees of the Attleboro Steering Plan Commission. |
