Full Name:
Rene Antonio Castro
Major/Year:
Theatre & Dance B.A., Focus in Acting and Lighting, Sophomore
Favorite class in Theatre & Dance and why:
Automated Lighting. There is something about the manner in which you have to solve the issues that come up with programming and making the looks that can ultimately bring so much emotion to music and live performance. I love solving puzzles and this class gives me an infinite amount of opportunities to do just that.
Favorite thing about Austin:
The People! Austin is such an interesting place and it really just comes down to the people. Also, I love how many independently owned businesses there are in this city. It's really amazing when you find a business just down the road from you became a franchise, and it all started right here. Plus there are many different and new avenues for theatre that go just beyond a typical theatre space and bring art to new mediums I never had thought to use.
Favorite place to study:
The PCLf, fifth floor. Lots of people are talking and I like having distractions. Distractions actually help me focus.
Brief biography (including projects, awards, accomplishments):
I grew up in San Antonio and started a hobby in theatre when I was younger. It soon became a passion. I came to UT as an acting focus, in my first year I acted in The Brick and the Rose and Our Town as well as performing in several directing projects. I grew an interest in lighting after taking a production lab course focusing on preparing the lights for the department production. I have been a lighting designer for The Playwriting Project and SEED. I am currently the Master Electrician for Emergency Prom.
Current projects/research/interests:
I am currently trying to expand my knowledge on automated lighting and digital lighting. This summer I will go to Costa Rica to the Digital Arts Institute for their programs in digital and LED lighting. I am also applying for a double major in the college of communications in Journalism.
