Sue Hlavinka

Sue Hlavinka, M.A., is Lecturer in Immersive Arts & Technical Theatre at Western Colorado University. A theatre artist, designer, and educator, she has worked in scenic, lighting, costume, and production design for more than three decades in educational and professional theatre. Her work emphasizes visual storytelling, collaboration, and creating immersive experiences that engage audiences while fostering meaningful student learning.

Before joining Western Colorado University, Hlavinka served as Resident Designer and Adjunct Professor of Theatre Production and Design at Heidelberg University, where she taught stagecraft, scenic design, costume construction, makeup, and theatre production while designing multiple productions each season. She believes the strongest theatre education happens through hands-on collaboration, mentorship, and the shared process of bringing stories to life.

Hlavinka earned her Master of Arts in Theatre from Regent University and her Bachelor of Science in Theatre from the University of Louisville. Her professional experience includes specialized flying effects training with ZFX and production experience with the Humana Festival of New American Plays.

As both an artist and educator, Hlavinka is passionate about integrating design thinking into the creative process, encouraging students to approach challenges with curiosity, empathy, collaboration, and innovation. She strives to cultivate thoughtful artists, confident collaborators, and creative problem-solvers who are prepared not only for careers in theatre and immersive arts, but to lead with imagination, adaptability, and purpose in an ever-evolving world.