J. Alan Smith is a costume designer, vocalist, and actor from Rock Hill, SC. During their tenure at Furman, they have had the privilege of both performing in and designing costumes for mainstage shows in the Theatre Arts department. Alan started their career at Furman as Petey in The Birthday Party, directed by Rhett Bryson. Since then, Alan has taken nearly every class the Theatre Arts department has to offer and has loved every second of it. Furman's theatre affords students the chance to work in all roles. Alan has worked as an actor, in stage management, operated sound and light boards, built sets, and hung lights. Most recently, Alan designed costumes for Kimberly Belflower's new play, John Proctor is the Villain, directed by Maegan Azar. This year, Alan also had the opportunity to work with guest artist David Lee Nelson to develop their own solo show. Alan has participated in major theatrical conventions, such as the Southeastern Theatre Conference (SETC) and the United States Institute for Theatre Technology (USITT) both as an auditioning actor and in their design competitions. Entering senior year, Alan is incredibly excited to see what the future holds and to get back to work designing and acting.

In his own words...

"In Furman's theatre, the faculty aren't simply professors. I have had the incredible opportunity to see them as colleagues, mentors, and friends as they entrust students with design opportunities and guide us through our years at Furman. I am indebted to my professors for all the wisdom they have imparted to me and for preparing me to work professionally as a theatre artist."