Sound Design student gains skills and connections at Santa Fe Opera

School of Design and Production Sound Design student Brooke Santiago spent the summer behind the scenes of one of the nation’s premier opera companies. As an audio-visual apprentice at the Santa Fe Opera in New Mexico, Santiago gained hands-on experience with complex sound systems, from hanging speakers to operating shows in a fast-paced repertory season.

The opportunity, discovered through UNCSA’s Industry Connections initiative, came after Santiago’s persistence paid off—she applied twice before earning a coveted spot. Over three months, she built technical skills, collaborated with industry professionals, and deepened her understanding of the unique role sound design plays in live performance. The transformative experience left her inspired to bring new ideas to her upcoming film and theater projects at UNCSA.

Below, learn about Santiago's exciting summer in New Mexico: 

Tell us about what you did this summer!

This summer, I spent three months in Santa Fe, New Mexico, working at the Santa Fe Opera as an Audio-Visual (AV) apprentice. My first few weeks were spent learning the sound system, hanging speakers and monitors, and running extensive cabling. That hands-on training quickly transitioned into long tech nights in the AV suite as we prepared to open our first show of the season, "La Bohème." Over the course of the summer, I served as a board operator for two of the five operas in repertory and was on deck crew for two others, leaving me with one show off. I thoroughly enjoyed trying new things and meeting people from all over the country who are passionate about opera and live entertainment.

 

 

 

 

 

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What was the best part of the summer?

The best part of this summer was the people. I had the opportunity to meet and work alongside incredibly talented professionals and peers, many of whom have become good friends.

How did you get this opportunity and make it happen?

I discovered this opportunity through the UNCSA Design and Production program’s Industry Connections initiative, during my first year of college spring semester. I applied and interviewed and sadly was not accepted but was encouraged to apply again next year so I did. I applied again and was grateful to be selected for this past summer.

Who were the people that were instrumental in making this possible?

I’m incredibly grateful for the many people who made this opportunity possible. First, I thank God for guiding me throughout the process. I’m also deeply appreciative of my parents, who supported me in traveling across the country; my professors, who wrote letters of recommendation and offered constant encouragement; and all my friends and close peers who encouraged me and most of all my friend Chase, who inspired me to apply in the first place.

Was the experience what you expected or something more? How did it shape your artistry?

This experience exceeded all my expectations. From the technical skills I developed to the relationships I built, it has truly been transformative. I gained a deeper understanding of repertory opera and how audio and visual design plays a unique and critical role in this art form. It broadened my perspective and inspired me to explore new possibilities in my own work.

What’s next? What are you looking forward to most this year?

This fall, I’ll be working on several student films and other creative projects. I’m especially excited to apply the skills and knowledge I gained this summer in new contexts and continue growing as a collaborative artist.

By Melissa Upton-Julio

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