What happens when nascent engineers, computer types, and other Techies come together on stage?  It is performance magic known as DramaTech.  Georgia Tech’s student-run theater is Atlanta’s longest continuously running theater troupe and, on November 3rd, it’s celebrating 20 years of innovation in the Dean James E. Dull Theatre in the Ferst Center of the Arts. 

When the previous DramaTech space was condemned, Dean of Students James E. Dull (now Emeritus) mounted a campaign for a new theater to be built as part of the Ferst Center.

“Dean Dull was a tremendous advocate for DramaTech,” says DramaTech Director Melissa Foulger. “He ensured that our space in Ferst worked, not only for performances, but also as a laboratory where students whose lives revolve around equations and methodology also have opportunity to push themselves creatively.”  

The Dull Theatre space allows students to experiment in acting and performance, as well as in directing, lighting, sound, costumes, and scenery, and production management. 

Ty Autry, an electrical engineering major, believes that the value of the experience extends beyond theater knowledge.

“DramaTech is an outlet for creative experimentation and expression. It also provides me with a wonderful opportunity to learn to work with deadlines, to collaborate with different majors and a multitude of different personalities.  In a way, DramaTech helps me to understand how to operate in the business world.”

Begun in 1929, this year's performances in Dull will be attended by more than 2000 people. Shows run in the fall, spring, and summer semesters and feature scripts from the theatrical canon, innovative contemporary pieces, musicals, and improvisation.  

“No organization does so much for the students of Georgia Tech as DramaTech,” says physics major, Sam Whited. “There is almost never a time, day or night, where there aren’t students busily working in the Dull Theater.  For many of us it becomes our home, a place we can return to when our lives are lacking in art.”

The draw is strong enough that some remain involved long after leaving Georgia Tech.  Stephanie Daigle is a computational media alumna who heads the Friends of DramaTech alumni group. 

“DramaTech gave me a new family and support system while at Tech, a place to escape the craziness of Georgia Tech,” she said. “I gave a lot of time and dedication to DramaTech and it gave a ton back - a husband and lifelong friends!”

All are invited to the celebration of DramaTech’s 20 years in the Dull Theater on November 3rd.  Events will begin at 4 pm with performances by DramaTech troupes, Let’s Try This! and VarietyTech.  The event will also feature guest speakers and a reception before the 8pm performance of Neil Simon’s Laughter on the 23rd Floor.  

The DramaTech Season

Begun in 1929 as the Marionettes, DramaTech, today, is in production almost year-round.

Fall Semester

Black Box Comedy Festival featuring nationally known comedians and improvisers

VarietyTech, an annual variety show

Large-cast theatre production that runs for 3 weeks

Let’s Try This! bi-weekly comedy improv shows

Spring Semester

A musical production and small cast play

Let’s Try This! bi-weekly comedy improv shows

Summer Semester

Smaller scale productions

In addition to scripted shows, DramaTech classes and workshops with professionals are offered through the School of Literature, Media, and Communication, Ivan Allen College, which houses the program.