Lighting a New Path
"You need to put yourself in a position to succeed."
Rick Goble originally came to the University of Nebraska at Omaha to earn a degree in computer science. However, after hearing about the School of the Arts’ Theatre program from his friends, Goble decided that a degree in theatre design and production was the right choice for him.
Rick’s first experience in theatre was in high school where he worked as a stage hand for two productions. He later gained employment as a stagehand at an Omaha local production company. This helped him realize that making this change in majors was going to be one he would not regret.
“Talking with faculty and students at that time was really helpful,” Goble said. “Professor Steven Williams brought in a former student who discussed working as a professional lighting designer, and all the unique things he was able to do in that field.”
The School of the Arts program allowed Goble to almost immediately start working on productions. Working as the master electrician of the school’s production of Freakshow, cemented his love of theatre lighting. “It really made me understand all of the effort that goes into a lighting designer’s work, and I really fell in love with it
after that,” Rick says. Rick believes that one of the greatest things about the School of the Arts Theatre program is its faculty. He says that no matter which professor or faculty member he went to with a question or problem, they all gave him the support he needed to succeed.
Through the help of his professors, and connections Goble had made during his education, he was able to get an internship working at the Utah Festival Opera and Musical Theater. Rick gained a unique experience as a stage electrician for musical performances, all thanks to the connections while attending the School of the Arts.
“Having professors who are willing to notice the effort you’re putting into your work, and then give you these
connections as a young undergrad student is unbelievable,” Rick says.
He wants potential School of the Arts students to know that school’s faculty is “invested in your success” and want to see their students go on to reach their aspirations. He says it is incredibly important to reach out to the faculty and staff and create connections in order to get the best out of your experience.
“You need to put yourself in a position to succeed,” Rick says. “You have to get involved and take opportunities. You can’t do that if you only sit quietly in class.”
Rick plans on graduating in the fall of 2019. He currently hopes to continue working as a stage electrician for different concert venues, although he still has a love for theater lighting. He says he is “stuck between his two loves.” He is also considering graduate school or getting involved in more internship programs.
By Ryan Lance
CFAM Journalism and Media Communications graduate