School of Theatre Arts

Professor Trout has been a faculty member at Illinois Wesleyan University since 1990. He has accomplished over 100 designs in scenery, lighting, costumes and sound for the university and professional venues since his appointment. He is a scene design member of United Scenic Artists, the union representing professional theatrical designers, since 1989. His academic designs for "The Triumph of Love" and an original play, "Front," were recognized by Kennedy Center/American College Theatre Festival, Region III, "The Triumph of Love" for Meritorious Achievement.

Some professional designs include: "Nutcracker" and "Beauty and the Beast" for the Augusta Ballet in Augusta, GA; "Die Fledermaus" for the Tri-Cities Opera in Binghamton, NY; "Christmas Carol" and "The Hardy Boys" and many recent mainstage and touring shows for the Lexington Children’s Theatre in Lexington, KY; "Stella Lou and Floyd Collins" for Heartland Theatre, Normal, IL; and residencies at Western Illinois University in Macomb, IL; University of Wisconsin, Green Bay; and at Dartmouth College, in Hanover NH.

As an architectural designer with The Edwards Design Group he created a new interior for St. Patrick Catholic Church in Decatur, IL. His $1.3m design for the large, 1908 neo-Gothic church, which included furniture, architectural detail, paint scheme and an architectural lighting design, was one of two chosen for the highest level of award at the Central Illinois Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Biennial Design Awards and was recognized by the City of Decatur Historical and Sites Commission with an Award for Excellence in Architectural Restoration.

Curtis’s proudest achievement is that IWU design and technical graduates move fluidly into internship and staff positions with professional organizations such as Santa Fe Opera, The Seattle Rep, Utah Music Theatre, Center Stage, Williamstown Theatre Festival, PCPA, The Berkshire Theatre Festival, The Glimmerglass Opera and the Goodman Theatre.

Education

M.F.A., Western Illinois University; B.A., Western Illinois University

Professional Affiliations

USA local 829, Phi Kappa Phi, Phi Mu Alpha