In Memoriam: Don Guy, Department of Theatre

Don Guy

We announce with great sadness that Don Guy, associate professor of Entertainment Technology in the Department of Theatre, passed away on April 24, 2021.

CoPA Dean Giulio Ongaro said, “He was at home in the arms of his wife, Professor of Dance Alicia Guy. This was unexpected news and I am sure that all of you are as shocked and saddened as we are. Please keep Alicia in your thoughts in this difficult, tragic time for her.”

Anyone who wants to reach out to Alicia may send condolences to:

Prof. Alicia Guy
Department of Dance
College of Performing Arts
Chapman University
One University Drive
Orange, CA 92866

Alicia provided this lovely summary of Don’s life and career to share with everyone:

Don received his BA from the University of Alabama and his MFA from the University of California at Irvine, where he met his wife. The first show they ever worked on together was the musical Sweet Charity. He was the lighting designer and she was a dancer.

Since that show, they continued to work together on both academic and professional projects. Their most recent professional project together was for Virgin Voyages’ inaugural ship, Scarlet Lady. At Chapman, the Guys cultivated an educational partnership with Cirque du Soleil and created an innovative interdisciplinary course, Technology for Live Performance, both of which were inspired by their passion to integrate the technicians and designers ‘behind-the-scenes’ with the dancers and choreographers on stage.

Fueled by Don’s love for international travel, they also co-taught multiple summer travel courses that showcased creative itineraries. Don worked tirelessly researching and creating new and exciting agendas every year that always included multiple cities and countries, all with unique destinations and performances. He cherished educating and sharing his knowledge and professional experiences with his students. Don was at Chapman for 16 years.

In addition to his work at Chapman, Don was a prolific lighting designer, lighting programmer, and system designer for cruise lines, magic, dance, theatre, themed entertainment, theme parks, and architectural projects. His work has been seen on six continents and in 48 US states. A few of his design credits include: Masters of Illusion — Live! (Bally’s Hotel & Casino on the Las Vegas Strip, Singapore, Manila, Canada, Dominican Republic, United States, and South America); Mama Africa the Musical (New York and Cape Town, South Africa); The Magic of Paris (Paris Hotel & Casino on the Las Vegas Strip); International Magic Festival (Athens, Greece); Dance Gala Performances (Lincoln Center in New York); Warner Bros. Movie World — Theme Park (Madrid, Spain); Universal Studios Japan — Theme Park (Osaka, Japan); over 20 designs for Norwegian Cruise Line; and most recently, Virgin Voyages. He was also the resident lighting designer/lighting director for Saint Louis Ballet. In addition to his live entertainment designs, Don designed architectural projects including Hard Rock Hotel and Casino; offices and TV studios in the World Trade Center; Lincoln Center; Emporio Armani; Yves Saint Laurent; Anheuser-Busch corporate interior remodel; and Macy’s, New York.

Two private services will be held with family and friends: at sea off the coast of Hawaii and in Tuscaloosa at the University of Alabama. May our beloved, Don Guy, rest in Paradise and forever ‘Roll Tide.’