TexARTS Kam and James Morris Theatre

About The Project

As the sound designer for TexARTS' production of The Last Five Years, I was tasked with creating a dynamic and immersive audio experience for a deeply emotional two-person musical. Utilizing a digital soundboard, I mixed live sound from five musicians and two actors, each using in-ear monitoring, which required careful attention to balance and clarity in a more intimate setting. One of my key objectives was to craft a soundscape that enhanced the show’s dream-like quality. I accomplished this by blending subtle, atmospheric sound effects that echoed the fluid, non-linear storytelling of the piece, underscoring pivotal moments in the narrative with texture and emotional depth.

The project presented significant technical challenges, particularly because Central Texas was under a freeze warning at the time. The severe weather led to widespread power outages, and resource management became critical. Despite these difficulties, I remained adaptable, ensuring that every rehearsal and performance maintained consistent sound quality. This involved coordinating closely with the technical team to troubleshoot any equipment issues and find creative solutions to the constraints caused by the weather.

Collaboration was also a key component of my approach. I worked closely with Lynn and the actors to ensure that their performances were fully supported by the sound design, balancing the live elements. The use of in-ear monitoring added a layer of complexity, but it allowed for precise control of the band's audio environment, ensuring that they could hear each other without distraction.

Ultimately, this production holds special significance for me, as it was the last theatrical project I completed before joining the U.S. Army. Reflecting on the process, I take pride in the creative and technical solutions I employed, as well as the collaborative spirit that brought the production to life, even under challenging circumstances.