When the theatre department brought Christopher Zinger on board as its new technical director and scenic designer, it fulfilled Zinger’s dream of teaching at the collegiate level and a Christian school.

“All my life experiences have made me who I am and hence they are the experiences I need to have for this job,” Zinger said. “While not a straight line from graduation to my dream job, each has allowed me to get something I needed to be in the theatre department, whether that was certain skills, experiences, or even confidence.”

Zinger received an Associate of Arts in theater arts from Jackson College and Bachelor of Arts in theater arts from Albion College. He is currently working toward a Master of Fine Arts in theater arts with a focus on scenic design at the University of Idaho.

His goal at Hillsdale is to make a difference in the lives of each of his students as they work to create productions, Zinger said.

“I will get to watch how students come into theater, what they do here, and what the outcomes are after they leave to make sure I have done my best,” Zinger said. “I am in the business of making a difference in people and will continue to do so.”

Junior Helen Rogers said she is excited to work with Zinger on future Tower Players productions.

“I am excited to see what kind of designs he cooks up and what his own unique style is,” Rogers said. “I can’t wait to learn what kinds of tips and tricks he has for the practical side of set building. I learned so much under Kim Britt, the previous scenic designer, and I can’t wait to continue that learning with Professor Zinger.”

Christopher Matsos, associate professor of theater and chairman of the department of theater and dance, said Zinger’s job is to construct the scenery for Tower Players productions and inspire his students.

“My hope is that Mr. Zinger will bring his infectious enthusiasm, as well as his skill as a technical director, to his work for Tower Players and Tower Dancers,” Matsos said.

Zinger will design and build the set for the Tower Players’ production of Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” according to Matsos.

Zinger said he is excited to bring his enthusiasm for theater to Hillsdale and incorporate all of his skills into his work.

“As a kid, I was fascinated with the idea of a Renaissance man,” Zinger said. “Now, as an adult, not only do I feel that I am that but, I am also the jack of all trades. I like it that way.”

Zinger will also oversee student employees and volunteers who work in the scene shop.

“God tends to take you on a journey. Sometimes it seems like you’re one of the children of Israel in the desert wandering around for a long time but eventually he will get you where he wants you,” Zinger said. “He did give you dreams for a reason.”