Director of Education & Outreach at Pittsburgh Public Theater (PPT), Katie Conaway lives in Pleasant Hills with her husband Craig, their Black Lab and two cats. She recently spearheaded an enhanced accessibility and inclusion initiative at PPT—the country’s first regional theater to introduce Sound Associates I-Caption® and D-scriptive® services. Synced with PPT shows, these important services provide real-time closed captioning for patrons who are deaf or hard of hearing, and audio descriptions for patrons with visual impairments. When not at the theater, Katie can be found planning trips, checking out Pittsburgh’s cultural scene and volunteering with TJ Arts, which supports performing arts in the West Jefferson Hills School District.
Monday, April 24
I’m useless without coffee, so I’ll start the day with a cup at home. Craig and I have a rambunctious Black Lab and we like to hang out with him in the morning. After a few rounds of fetch, I’ll grab my laptop and proofread minutes from last night’s TJ Arts board meeting before sending them out.
Then I’m off to the theater. I’m due to give an update to the Governance Committee this morning, so I’ll review my notes. Emails and voicemails about summer youth classes are also sure to welcome me.
I’ll need a caffeine boost before our afternoon Executive Committee Meeting. The walk to Nicholas Coffee & Tea Co. provides a refreshing change of scenery, and it smells divine in there. If I’m feeling indulgent, I’ll treat myself to a lavender macaroon from Gaby et Jules at Market Street Grocery.
Tuesday, April 25
Since I’ll be at the theater late tonight, I’ll enjoy a leisurely morning at home. My husband and I recently returned from a trip to South Africa with my brother, and I’ve been editing our photos and GoPro footage.
The majority of today is dedicated to the audio description script for our production of Death of a Salesman starring Zach Grenier (David Lee on The Good Wife). Tonight is my last chance to update the script before I record tomorrow. Audio description is part of our enhanced accessibility and inclusion initiative.
I’ll meet my friend for dinner at Poros; the patio is lovely in warm weather. Then, I’ll settle in and edit my notes from the booth during the show.
Wednesday, April 26
A cup of coffee for the road and I’m out the door to prepare for this morning’s student matinee. I’ll swing by Prantl’s to grab them some treats since it’s the last day for our AIU Apprenticeship students.
After the show, I’ll lead a talkback with the cast and crew. It’s always interesting to hear the students’ perspectives; they ask great questions.
I’ll dash over to täkō for a delicious bite before I’m due to record. Can I just say how THRILLED I am that they’re open for lunch?
If it’s nice out, Craig and I will have dinner on the porch. A peaceful yoga class at Cool Fitness will counteract my hectic day.
Thursday, April 27
I’ll start working on my final presentation for Arts Education Collaborative’s Leadership Academy, which wraps up in a few weeks.
I’ll take a break at lunchtime to pop over to the Remembering Pittsburgh exhibition at Lantern Gallery.
This afternoon I’m meeting with Ellen Rossi at the EQT Foundation, which supports our Creative Dramatics program and Shakespeare Monologue & Scene Contest. We have exciting ideas for next year.
After work, I’m meeting up with a friend for Bricolage’s new immersive experience, The Ascendants. Happy hour is likely to follow at Condado Tacos.
Rounding out the day is a glass of wine in time to enjoy TGIT—did I mention I’m a ShondaLand fangirl?
Friday, April 28
I’ll swing by Big Dog Coffee on my way to Creative Mornings. I’m looking forward to what’s sure to be an inspiring talk from Grant Oliphant, President of The Heinz Endowments.
I’m meeting a family friend for lunch in Market Square to talk about marketing strategies for her company, My 4-Year Plan, which helps students and families with college plans.
A few times a season, The Public hosts FREE CITY, a completely free community performance for audiences not served through our traditional shows. I’ll spend time the afternoon following up on RSVPs with my community partners for our June production of the comedy, An Act of God.
Tonight is Opening Night of Death of a Salesman. My colleague Lou Castelli and I will likely slip away for a celebratory drink at Talia once the show starts.
Saturday, April 29
If I haven’t stayed too late at last night’s cast party, I’ll try out Barre Fitness, part of Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre‘s Community Classes. While I’m in the neighborhood, I’ll stop at Pittsburgh Juice Company to for a refreshing treat.
This afternoon is Saturday Studio: Shakespeare Edition, so I’m headed to the theater for a few hours.
Tonight we’ll meet up with friends for a good brew at Spoonwood or Hitchhiker Brewing.
Sunday, April 30
After a wonderful, but busy week, I look forward to a day with no concrete plans. We’ll likely head to First Watch for breakfast (my usual: AM Superfood Bowl and Kale Tonic).
If the weather holds, we’ll venture to Ohiopyle with the pup. Otherwise, we’ll head over to Carnegie Museum of Art with a mandatory stop at Café Carnegie.
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