Grant to Help Update Lighting in TDH

The future of Clarke University’s award-winning theater program just got brighter, thanks to a grant from ETC Lighting Company. The grant provides Clarke with a new Ion control console and 25 Source Four lighting fixtures, valued at $15,500, which will help update the lighting equipment in Terence Donaghoe Hall. It marked the largest donation ETC gave out during its current grant cycle. “Given the fact that our current system is over 20 years old, the students will now have the capability of learning and working with equipment they will encounter in the ‘real world,’” said Ellen Gabrielleschi, chair and professor of drama at Clarke. Clarke has been a leader in theatre for many years and has a very reputable history with the American College Theatre Festival – a nationwide festival sponsored by the Kennedy Center. Since the 1970s, the drama department has actively participated in this festival, entering productions to be considered for presentation at the regional level. Clarke has been chosen to perform its production at the regional festival nine times over the past 25 years and has been first alternate four times. Clarke has been awarded certificates of excellence in set design, lighting design, costume design, directing, ensemble, and former chair, Dr. Carol Blitgen, BVM, was awarded the Kennedy Center Medal of Achievement for excellence in an undergraduate theatre program.   ETC is a global leader in the manufacture of lighting and rigging technology for entertainment and architectural applications. ETC was founded in 1975 in Madison, Wis. For more information, contact the Clarke University Marketing and Communication Office at (563)588-6318.Clarke University is a Catholic, liberal arts and sciences university dedicated to preparing students who positively impact their workplace, family and community. Academic offerings include more than 40 undergraduate liberal arts and pre-professional programs, a robust adult degree program and six graduate degree programs.  Founded in 1843 by the Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Clarke is located near the Mississippi River in the thriving city of Dubuque, Iowa. It is the only BVM university in the country.