Today’s interview is of Sheel Choksi, a sophomore attending UC Berkeley. I’ve had the pleasure of working with him as Media Technology Co-chairs for ABA. He’s extremely proficient with Macbooks and most types of video editing software. He has received much influence from his older brother, who is now working at Ashton Kutcher’s video game production division.

1) Can you explain a bit more about what technical directing exactly is?

Sheel: Sure. It’s basically the coordination of all technical aspects of a production. So that would include sounds, sfx, microphones, lights and light design. A technical director would also purchase all of the technical equipment for the theatre/production such as sound boards, wires, spotlights, etc…

2) What got you passionate about technical directing?

Sheel: Well I worked crew in high school theatre and started as a basic stage hand. As I got more interested in it, I worked up the ranks of crew and really found my passion.

3) What influences have played a major role in your life?

Sheel: The first time I worked was when my brother was stage managing and he needed an extra person on crew. That really helped draw me into the field. My activities director, one of my role models, was also a director for school plays, so that further drew me in.

4) Do you have any long-term goals for technical directing?

Sheel: Well, ideally I’d like to either be contracted to a large theatre and do all the shows that come by there, or I’d like to work on one specific, large production and travel with it across the states while taking care of their technical needs.

5) Do u have any advice you’d give to people interested in technical directing?

Sheel: Well I don’t think that I’m that far along yet but just get involved in as much as possible. Participate in many different types of productions such as talent shows, musicals, and plays.