Collierville's arts scene knows the name Richard Logston well, though spectators may not immediately recognize his face. This behind-the-scenes mastermind has made a significant mark in local theater, having designed and built sets for approximately 100 productions. As the town's first and only Technical Production Manager, Logston celebrated a 35-year career milestone last Wednesday, according to the Town of Collierville's official website.
Logston’s journey into the world of theater began early on, kindled by a love for the art sparked after seeing his cousin perform in plays. A visit to the cinema to watch 'Star Wars' in 1977 was the decisive moment that led him to pursue his career in this field. Despite an initial inclination towards acting, technical theater presented an opportunity that resonated more with his natural aptitude, leading him to study Theater Design and Technical Production at Memphis State University, now known as the University of Memphis, as detailed by the Town of Collierville.
"I worked a full theater season there, from September to March," said Logston. "Then after we got the last show in the theater, they said they didn’t need us anymore. But that was okay because I had been there long enough to realize I didn't want to live in Philadelphia," as stated by the Town of Collierville. He then transitioned back to Collierville, where he has since helped shape the artistic tapestry of the community. Logston's contributions extend beyond the theater walls, as he's also dabbled in designing a new sleigh for Collierville's Christmas Parade back in 2021, drawing from a simple YouTube video to craft the festive creation.
While downtime in March allows more predictable working hours, the rest of Logston's year is a whirlwind of activity, with back-to-back productions. "I try my best to fit everything within a 40-hour week," Logston told Collierville's website. "Sometimes I’ll work from afternoon through the evenings, and sometimes I’m here from 8:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m. But I really don’t have 'typical' days." His dedication extends to fire-watching during shows that utilize atmospheric effects, such as smoke or fog, ensuring a seamless experience for audiences. One thing is clear: his decision to return to the town that first gave him wings doesn't seem to carry a shred of regret. "Not for a minute," Logston affirmed, reflecting on his career choices.
