My Bio:

My name is Cooper Nickels, and I am originally from a small town called Manchester, Tennessee. I have always loved storytelling, and now, I want to make a career out of it.

I have been trained in technical direction and project management, but my true passion is in prop shops. I love building furniture, hand props, and special effects. I enjoy working as a props artisan, because you are only limited by your imagination, and it requires a great amount of problem solving and management skills to be done well. I worked at Chautauqua Theater Company for two seasons: first as the props intern and later as the prop master’s assistant. I quickly became our lead carpenter, and I made major shop improvements while I was there.

In addition to my technical theater skills, I have interests in cooking, glass blowing, and puppetry, all of which have added to my abilities as a collaborator and a creator. I am excited about where my career is going, and I know it will be worthwhile for anyone who comes along with me.