What they are saying....
"One of the keystones of our program is our Seminar Series in which technical theatre professionals speak to our students about their particular discipline and personal experiences. As an advocate of rigging safety, Bill has become a 'regular' guest. Beyond his breadth of knowledge Bill is a comfortable and entertaining speaker. He is receptive to the student's questions, which make his presentations even more instructive. He is a uniquely valuable resource."
-Ben Sammler, Chair, Yale School of Drama, Yale University
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"Approachable experts like Bill are rare; he would be a valued asset in any industry. As a professional who has been on the leading edge of Entertainment Rigging since we started calling it Entertainment Rigging Bill has been a tremendous resource to my program and to my students."
-David Boevers, Faculty Technical Director, Carnigie-Mellon University
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"We've had the pleasure of welcoming Bill Sapsis a couple of times here at the University of Massachusetts-Amherst. He provides a depth of knowledge and experience virtually unmatched in our industry. Through his gift of gab, Bill leads his audience through various story-lines that arc across a wide range of rigging topics and methods. With a continuous thread of safety, Bill stresses the need for knowledge, attention to detail, and doing the homework necessary to design and create successful projects.
What I enjoy most is that even though he is at the forefront of establishing industry standards and one of the best riggers in the world, Bill Sapsis is able to communicate effectively with the novice student and the seasoned professional. He creates an interactive atmosphere where any question is a good one, and I've seen veteran stagehands ask the most basic questions without shame.
With Bill, we get confirmation of what we are doing right, challenges to recognize and develop safe practices, and leadership in creative and innovative techniques."
Thanks Bill!
-Michael Cottom
Sr. Lecturer, Faculty Technical Director
University of Massachusetts-Amherst
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"I have been a practicing professional in the entertainment industry for over 45 years. At least 30 of those years have been in the classroom, as well. I can stand in front of a class and impart facts and information and hope that it sinks in with the students. One of the best decisions that I have ever made is inviting Bill Sapsis to address one of my seminar classes. He brought current information about the state of the business to my students in a manner that only Bill can do. He was a "known" quantity to my students who look up to and respect him for what he has done and for what he has to offer. After the class, students came up to me and thanked me for bringing Bill to UNLV. He was candid, honest and encouraging to a group of young minds that will someday be the future of our industry."
Joe Aldridge
Director of Entertainment Engineering and Design UNLV
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"Bill’s speaking engagement at The Public Theater was extremely informative, entertaining, and very insightful into the world of rigging and proper technique. With his expertise, we have implemented significant improvements in our theater. Bill’s openness to providing his continual rigging expertise to our institution has made him a valuable teaching asset. "
-Corrine Livingston
Assistant Audio Supervisor
NYC The Public Theatre
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