Eli Van Sickel is a theatremaker and independent scholar based in Chicago. He received an MS in Theatre History/Studies from Illinois State University and a BS in Directing and Dramaturgy from Indiana State University. As a practitioner, Eli has been a sound designer, director, dramaturg, actor, house manager, and social media coordinator. As a scholar, his primary research deals with history, theory, and issues in American deaf theatre. His secondary interests are disability performance and the theatricality of professional wrestling. Eli is hard of hearing and has worn hearing-aids since he was two years old. You can find him on Twitter @EliVanScythe.