Andi Lyons

Areas of Expertise: Lighting Design and Technology; Stage and Production Management; Technical Writing; Scenic and Production Technology; Issues of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion in the Performing Arts and Entertainment Industry

Affiliated Faculty: Women's, Gender & Sexuality Studies

Andi Lyons is Professor of Theatrical Design and Technology, and the Resident Lighting Designer, for the University at Albany's Theatre Program. She has designed lighting and/or scenery for over 150 university productions since 1982, served as the Department’s Technical Director until 1992 and as Production Supervisor until 1996, and continues as Head of Design and Technology. Additionally, Andi served as the Chair of the Theatre Department and then as Director of the Theatre Program from 2009-2017. Professor Lyons teaches courses in Lighting Design, Lighting Technology, Scenic Technology, Technical Design, Theatrical Drafting, and Stage Management. She has received both the University at Albany President's Award and the SUNY Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Teaching.

Andi is an active member of the United States Institute for Theatre Technology (USITT) – the association for design, production, and technology professionals in the performing arts and entertainment industry. She currently serves on its Board of Directors as Vice-President for Members, Sections & Chapters; and she is also a member of USITT’s Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee. In 2015, Andi received the Joel E. Rubin Founder’s Award for outstanding and continued service to USITT. On campus, Professor Lyons has received both the SUNY Chancellor's Award and the University at Albany President's Award for Excellence in Academic Service.

Beyond designing the major theatrical productions on campus each year, Andi has been involved in freelance activities with many companies, including Arena Stage, Dallas Theater Center, Capital Repertory Theatre, LaMaMa E.T.C., Laguna Playhouse, Des Moines Metro Opera, Dorset Theatre Festival, Tri-Cities Opera, Stageworks/Hudson, Williamstown Theatre Festival, Adirondack Scenic, National LGBTQ Task Force, and WAM Theatre. Andi earned her MFA at Yale University’s School of Drama. She is a proud Fellow of USITT, and a member of United Scenic Artists Local 829.