College of Charleston Professor Receives Theatre Design and Technology Award

by Hannah-Marie Wayne ’19 (M.P.A., ARCM ’22)

^{Above: Janine McCabe at the SCTA Awards Gala at Drayton Hall Theatre in Columbia, South Carolina. Photo courtesy of the South Carolina Theatre Association.}

From Broadway to Charleston, Janine McCabe ’98 has offered incredible talent and creativity to the College of Charleston’s Department of Theatre and Dance for the past 18 years. Last month the South Carolina Theatre Association (SCTA) awarded her with the Excellence in Theatre Design and Technology Award, which honors an individual for their body of work and contributions to technical work and design of theater in South Carolina. 

As artistic director of CofC Stages and an associate professor of costume design, McCabe’s contribution to the department is undeniable, and you’ve likely seen her work. As a mentor to aspiring costume designers, she has an incredible ability to challenge, encourage and engage students like Ellen Swick ’10, who graduated from the department and later became its costume shop manager.

“Working on a production with Janine isn’t just a job; it’s a whirlwind of bold creativity, meticulous attention to detail, collaboration and friendship,” Swick says. “Janine embodies excellence in design, precision and a knack for problem-solving. She is a fierce advocate for all, driven by a passion for theater, and a leadership style that inspires greatness and refuses to settle for anything less.”

McCabe’s leadership has created a respected costume design program with an emphasis on collaboration between all performance areas. During her time at the College, Janine has been instrumental in the creation of several new programs, like the Student Design Showcase, a six-hour-per-week studio design course, and CofC Stages (which defines the departmental production company). Her work beyond the classroom is a testament to her passion for theater and community in Charleston.

As resident designer for regional companies like PURE Theatre and Annex Dance Company – as well as a repeat guest designer for Charleston Stage; Trustus Theatre in Columbia, South Carolina; Flat Rock Playhouse in North Carolina; and Charleston Opera Theatre – with 25 years of design experience, McCabe brings creative designs and professional expertise to her work at every level in the field. She brings students on these projects as assistant designers and team members to inspire and cultivate their love for theater, dance and opera and to connect them with real life experiences in the field as they begin to build their network.

McCabe’s legacy at the College is one of unwavering dedication, unparalleled creativity and profound impact. Her vision has not only shaped the department but has also left an indelible mark on the broader theater community in South Carolina. Through her innovative programs, mentorship and extensive professional network, she has opened doors for countless students, guiding them from classroom to career with her unique blend of passion and expertise. 

As we celebrate McCabe’s achievements and her SCTA Excellence in Theatre Design and Technology Award, we also honor the countless contributions she has made to the arts, inspiring future generations to pursue their own creative journeys with the same fervor and excellence that she embodies.