Theater to be named for professor

The new facility should be ready by Homecoming in October.
GREENVILLE, Pa. -- Thiel College will name its new black box theater in honor of longtime Thiel professor and theater director Dr. William A. Robinson.
Dr. Lance A. Masters, Thiel president and CEO, said the lead donor, who asked to remain anonymous, in the $1 million project recommended that it be named for Robinson.
The new facility will be known as the William Robinson Theatre, he said.
"It is fitting that this building be named for Bill Robinson, whose leadership and dedication have enhanced the Thiel College experience for so many students," Masters said.
The black box theater, which will be adjacent to the William A. Passavant Memorial Center, will be the only one of its kind in the area and will be used by the Thiel Players and the Greenville Area Community Theatre.
About the theater
Black box refers to the type of interior design of the theater. It features an open performance space, usually with black walls and a flat floor with seating consisting of loose chairs, often on platforms, for easy redesign to accommodate various performances.
The facility is often favored by colleges and other theater-training programs because the space is so easy to change.
Thiel's 7,500-square-foot steel structure will feature a contemporary interior with flexible seating and staging. The building will be delivered Aug. 14 and construction is expected to be completed by Homecoming, Oct. 6-8.
Robinson's career
Robinson joined the Thiel faculty in 1974 and has served as chairman of the performing arts department.
As director of the Thiel Players, the college's dramatic troupe, he has produced works ranging from Chaucer's "The Canterbury Tales" to contemporary musicals.
Since 1980, Robinson and the Thiel Players have produced "You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown" during Freshman Orientation Week.
Robinson also directs the Greenville Area Community Theatre. He earned his bachelor's degree from Duquesne University, a master's from the University of Pittsburgh, and a doctorate from Bowling Green State University.