Her Story
About Shreya
Shreya Srihari is an emerging technical theater professional, award-winning lighting designer, and stagehand with four years of experience in live event production, theatrical lighting, and backstage operations. They currently work as a stagehand for both Rhino Staging and the Rialto Center for the Arts in downtown Atlanta, where they support rental events through equipment setup, rigging, lighting execution, microphone organization, cue calling, curtain operation, and event logistics. As the first and only college student employed as a stagehand at the Rialto Center for the Arts, Shreya has demonstrated exceptional technical ability, adaptability, and professionalism in a demanding production environment. They also balance roles as a recreational gymnastics coach and summer camp counselor, reflecting a strong commitment to leadership, mentorship, and community engagement.
A sophomore at Georgia State University, Shreya is pursuing a double major in Journalism with a Multimedia concentration and Film and Media, combining technical production expertise with storytelling and visual communication. Their interest in screenwriting, script development, editing, and media production complements their extensive hands-on theater experience. In addition to their academic pursuits, Shreya holds certifications in CPR, First Aid, and mandated reporting, and has developed a reputation as a quick learner who excels at mastering new lighting systems, production equipment, and event technologies. Outside of their professional work, they also enjoy cosmetology as a creative hobby.
Shreya's accomplishments in technical theater have earned statewide recognition. During their senior year at Denmark High School, they served as construction manager, shop manager, and head of lighting design and execution for Jekyll & Hyde: The Musical, leading the production's technical efforts. Their work earned the prestigious 2025 Georgia Shuler-Hensley Award for Best Lighting Design, while also contributing to the production's recognition for Best Technical Execution among 61 participating schools. Passionate about concert venues, professional theater, and live entertainment, Shreya continues to build a career centered on creative problem-solving, technical excellence, and delivering memorable production experiences.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Shreya
01What do you attribute your success to?
Pushing myself and holding myself to the commitments and interests I want. I constantly seek opportunity and don't say no to things that might lead to more. There's no harm in asking, as shown by becoming the youngest stagehand at Rialto Theater.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Not to limit your options. Don't expect one track, apply and look for every field even if you may not necessarily want it, learn to love it, and embrace change.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would encourage young women entering this industry not to limit themselves. Stay open to new opportunities, embrace change, and be willing to step outside your comfort zone. Growth often comes from adapting to new challenges and continuously learning along the way.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Challenge is gaining respect in a male-centered workforce as a young woman. Opportunity is that it's team-based work leading to many connections and jumping off points.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Patience, organization, dedication, pacing yourself, knowing your limits, stamina, perseverance, being a quick learner, being okay making mistakes, and asking for help.
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