Steve Schroeder: Reflections from Overture’s first technical director

With Overture’s 20th anniversary season coming to a close, it's the perfect time to spotlight those who have helped shape Overture’s success from the beginning. As Overture’s first and longest-serving technical director, Steve Schroeder fondly recalls his involvement throughout the years.  

Early Career 

Schroeder began his technical career in the 1970s, hanging chains and cables from the ceilings of theatrical venues. He then worked as a stagehand at Overture’s predecessor, Madison Civic Center, preparing the building for shows, unpacking equipment and setting up events. His technical knowledge made him valuable in his subsequent roles as sound operator, fly operator and house technician. 

By the late 1990s, Schroeder became technical director of Madison Civic Center, and he assumed that same role in 2004 when Overture opened, coordinating labor, timing and technical needs for shows to ensure smooth set-ups and teardowns.

Envisioning Overture 

As discussions about a new cultural venue for Madison gained momentum in the 1990s, Schroeder was actively involved in the planning stages. Schoeder remembers witnessing the project's budget grow larger and larger, reflecting Madison’s need for a bigger space to satisfy the community's artistic needs.  

Collaborating with consultants, Schroeder's practical approach to theater equipment and installation ensured that the technical aspects of Overture Center were both technically advanced and feasible. 

“I was really glad to be involved in the planning of Overture Hall to steer things in the right direction,” Schroeder said. 

His contributions were instrumental in making Overture Hall a state-of-the-art venue that is memorable for performers and audiences alike.  

Overture Hall  

Over decades of doing tech at Overture, Schroeder consistently heard positive feedback from performing groups.  

“Everyone who has come through, from the Chicago Symphony to the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, has fallen in love with Overture Hall,” he said.  

Audiences love the venue as well. “Sitting in Overture Hall, you can hear every individual instrument in the orchestra,” Schroeder said. “There's not a better venue in the country for listening.” 

Schroeder believes Overture Hall is incredibly special because of its design’s curves and angles that allow sound to travel clearly all the way to the farthest back rows.  

"The acousticians did a remarkable job, and I'm proud to have been a part of making the hall so impressive” he said. 

Memorable Moments 

After 40 years of working behind the scenes in the performing arts, Schroeder still recalls the inaugural Broadway performance following Overture’s opening, “The Phantom of the Opera,” as the most memorable.  

The technical challenges of accommodating such a grand show in the new venue were immense.  Schroeder and his team worked for two weeks ahead of the show’s arrival to modify the theater’s infrastructure to meet the production's needs.  

At the time, in January 2005, bringing “The Phantom of the Opera” to the brand-new Overture facility was a huge undertaking intended to show off Overture Hall’s grand capabilities. 

Overture's Impact 

Schroeder believes that the vibrancy of downtown Madison is, in large part, due to Overture bringing people to the area to support the arts.  

“Overture’s impact on Madison has been amazing,” Schroeder said. “The organization not only provides a venue for world-class performances but continues to build community in the arts.”

Connection in Retirement 

After retiring from Overture in January 2020, Schroeder still maintains a strong bond with the organization. In his retirement, Schroeder continues to offer his skill as a rigger, enjoying the opportunity to work alongside longtime colleagues and contribute to Overture’s operations.  

“I help out when the tech team needs me, and it’s nice having someone tell me what to do for a change,” said Schroeder, smiling.  

In addition to his continued rigging at Overture, Schroeder leads an active and fulfilling life in his retirement. He volunteers at a local park doing habitat restoration projects and enjoys spending time outdoors with his two dogs. 

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