John Smith

John A. Smith is the Technical Services Manager and serves as the head of the Tech department since moving to the position in 1999. John’s production cohorts are a talented and versatile full-time technical staff that consists of Stage Managers, Lighting Supervisor, Sound Engineers, Video and Film Projectionists. This department provides technical support to all the program areas of the Center and collaborates with artists, designers and directors to produce the multitude of exhibitions, performances and events that are the essence of a vibrant season at the Center.

Beginning his work at the Center in 1989 when the building opened, John applied his knowledge of sound reinforcement, project management and technical theatre craft to the ambitious and innovative programs that comprised the landmark inaugural year of the Wexner Center. As the Center evolved, his duties expanded to include Stage Manager of the Performance Space and resident lighting designer and rigger for Exhibitions.

Some of the more memorable work that John has helped produce during his tenure at the Center include artists, shows and events in no particular order: Spaulding Gray incl. “It’s a Slippery Slope” (1997), Ann Carlson “White” (1994), Ann Hamilton “appetite” (1998), Elizabeth Streb residency “Ringside” (1999), SITI Company residencies, White Oak Dance Project, Wynton Marsalis/Lincoln Center Jazz, Terry Allen “a simple story (Juarez)” (1992), Julie Taymor “Playing with Fire” (1999), Andy Warhol “Other Voices, Other Rooms” (2008), the Outdoor Drive-In film series, the John Glenn Memorial service and every Wexner Center Anniversary Gala Party since year One.