Bill Digneit - NMU Theatre and Dance

William “Bill” Digneit (M.F.A. Florida State University 2011) is currently one of the founding Co-Directors of SISU: The Innovation Institute at Northern Michigan University. Bill is also the current Department Head of the Theatre and Dance Department and Director of the Forest Roberts Theatre. He holds a Masters of Fine Arts in Technical Production and Management. In the Theatre and Dance Department, Bill markets and promotes the current season and teaches classes focusing on technical practices applicable to nightlife and festival venues. Innovation, collaboration, listening, equity, and a willingness to try something new are the pillars that Mr. Digneit’s leadership is supported by in higher education. 

Outside of the classroom, Bill is the current production manager for the annual Live Design International Conference and Trade Show in Las Vegas and has also managed LDI Mexico. He has been working in production management with LDI for over 12 years. He is passionate about entertainment technology education and creating new learning opportunities to push the industry towards a brighter future. Mr. Digneit also works regionally and nationally to facilitate meaningful change within the entertainment industry’s inclusivity practices. He founded and launched the first fully inclusive theatre audience experience at NMU, and the Theatre For All program is now a cornerstone of the program. Bill is the co-owner of Double Trouble Entertainment, a Michigan based entertainment and production-company focusing on nightclub design and outdoor events. Mr. Digneit is also the co-owner of DIGS Marquette, a restaurant and entertainment venue in Marquette, MI.