Staff Spotlight: Ben Dobler, Lead Video Engineer
3/4/2020 12AM
You don't see him, but you see his work
Ben Dobler
Ben Dobler is one of those brainy techie guys who works behind the scenes to make concerts and other events happen, but his work is more visible than most. Among other duties, he oversees the video technology that is increasingly important to productions in the Center’s three venues. That includes the amazing modular LED “video wall” added to the arsenal last year – see video below.
An Indiana Wesleyan grad and native of Berne, Indiana, Ben has been a full-time Center staffer for over three years, having served previously as interim technical director at Wabash College and electrical supervisor for Phoenix Theatre.
At our request, he was kind enough to take his own moment in the spotlight.
In a nutshell, what do you do around here?
I’m a member of the production department – the team of people who create the technical magic on stage. My main role is taking care of any video needs in the three venues, including the video wall you might have seen used on shows in the last year, but I can also be found playing audio engineer or lighting designer.
What is the coolest thing that ever happened to you on the job?
In 2016, I was the audio engineer for Actors Theatre of Indiana’s production of Sweeney Todd in the Studio Theater. Last month I got to take that experience and crank it up when they produced it alongside the Carmel Symphony Orchestra and a choir in the Palladium. It was an ambitious project, but everyone pulled together to create something exciting.
Are you now, or have you ever been, a performing artist?
When I was in high school I was in choir and played the saxophone in band. I also acted in some plays and musicals. My last time acting in a play was probably freshman year of college, when I played Lucky in Samuel Beckett’s Waiting for Godot. The role is mute, except for a long, rambling, philosophical monologue which I never did quite memorize.
What are your interests or hobbies outside the Center?
One of my favorite things to do on a day off is tuck in at a local coffee shop and read while sipping a latte. It’s also hard to beat a good Sazerac at a relaxed cocktail bar. Or a beer with friends at local brewery. I think maybe I just like beverages?
Who are you most looking forward to this season?
David Sedaris! When I got the email announcing he would be added to the season, I did a major happy dance. He is quite possibly my favorite author. Listening to the audiobook of him reading Santaland Diaries is one of my Christmas traditions.
