John Riddell
With a background as a production manager and lighting designer, John knows how to translate client and user needs into project goals. He understands the technical complexity of performing arts spaces, and in his role as a project manager, he considers how design decisions at every stage may affect the usability and sustainability of the space.
Before joining Theatre Projects, John worked in professional theatre as a lighting designer and freelance production manager. He lit shows for many of Ireland’s leading productions, including Of Mice and Men, which he worked on as the lighting designer in residence at Belfast’s Lyric Theatre. He’s also previously worked as a construction manager and freelance production manager for Scottish Opera.
Academic research of performance spaces has been a long-time passion of John’s. Having previously completed a Bachelor of Arts in history and drama from King Alfred’s College at the University of Winchester and a Master of Arts in theatre consultancy from the University of Warwick, he’s now completing his PhD in theatre design. He’s analyzed nearly 100 venues on behalf of the Arts Councils of Ireland and Northern Ireland, which was compiled into a technical survey for the joint initiative called Auditoria.
John in action
Our Team
It takes a village to create a special place for a community to call home. Our team brings together specialists with backgrounds in the performing arts, architecture, mechanical engineering, lighting design, acoustics, and more to offer a holistic approach to creating, renovating, or repurposing all forms of storytelling spaces. We understand the decisions that need to be made at every stage of the project and we know how to make a performance space work for artists, audience, and production teams.
