Hartmann named chairman of Clemson performing arts department

Published: August 3, 2011

David Hartmann image by: Clemson University

CLEMSON — David Hartmann of Seneca has been appointed chairman of Clemson’s performing arts department. He replaces Richard Goodstein, who recently was appointed dean of the College of Architecture, Arts and Humanities. Hartmann assumed his duties July 1.

He has taught at Clemson since 1990 as professor of theater and theater designer. Before joining Clemson’s faculty, he taught four years at Missouri Western State College in St. Joseph, Mo.

In 2010, Hartmann received an Award for Meritorious Achievement from the Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival for his work on the Clemson Players’ production of “Rent.” It was the fourth such award since 2005. He also is an active theater designer in regional theaters, including Center Stage theater and Warehouse Theatre in Greenville, and the South Carolina Repertory Company in Hilton Head.

“I came to Clemson 21 years ago to be part of a new performing arts building and degree program,” said Hartmann. “I am now extremely excited, proud and thankful to be afforded this opportunity to serve as the chair of performing arts.”

Hartmann’s professional credits began with work in various theme parks, such as Opryland USA in Nashville and the Great America parks in Chicago and Santa Clara, Calif. After attending the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, where he received a Bachelor of Fine Arts in theater design, Hartmann worked on the dinner theater circuit with stops at The Fireside Dinner Theatre in Fort Atkinson, Wis.; Circa ‘21 Dinner Playhouse in Rock Island, Ill.; and Tiffany’s Attic and Waldorf Astoria dinner theaters in Kansas City, Mo. Hartmann was awarded a Master of Fine Arts in design from the University of Minnesota.

“I can’t imagine a better choice for chairman of this thriving department,” said Goodstein. “Across the board, he has earned the respect and admiration of the faculty, staff and students in the department. I know he will accomplish great things.”

The performing arts department offers undergraduate degrees in music, theater and audio technology. The programs are housed in the Brooks Center for the Performing Arts, where students and faculty study and work closely with acclaimed guest performing artists.

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