Photo: Christopher Ash
Joel Abbott is a theatrical sound designer and composer working on Broadway, Off-Broadway, and in regional theatres across the country. He trained at the Yale School of Drama and spent several years as associate to Tony-nominated designer John Gromada.
His work includes productions with Roundabout Theatre Company, Signature Theatre, Manhattan Theatre Club, and New World Stages, along with Broadway's Todd Haimes, St. James, and Schoenfeld Theatres.
Joel designs sound effects and ambiences, sound and vocal reinforcement systems, live Foley, and music that help shape the sound-world of a production. He has designed more than 200 shows and composed music for over 165 episodes of television.
He began his career as a musical improviser at Dad's Garage Theatre in Atlanta, performing in more than 4,500 shows. He lives in New York with his wife, several guitars, and three very fluffy dogs.
“Joel Abbott provides the fine sound design work that aids in bringing touches of realism into the play.”Taking Steps, Barrington Stage Company — The Berkshire Edge
“One of the biggest stars of the night, though, is Joel Abbott, a Foley artist who concocts a radio-show-like array of sound effects that build much of the sense of whimsy into the production. His use of a wind-up wind machine and a clacking typewriter brings vivid sound to the fury of de Rougemont's story”Shipwrecked: An Entertainment, Vermont Stage Company — Burlington Free Press
“Joel Abbott's sound is excellent”Opus, Vermont Stage Company — North Country Public Radio
“The real fire of the show is in the musical performances (original songs, and accompaniment as Charlie the Piano Guy, by Joel Abbott).”We Know Edie La Minx Had A Gun, Yale Cabaret — New Haven Review
“As for Joel Abbott's sound, the background and dramatic accent music are all excellent and sometimes funny choices, as are the various night sounds. The sound supports the action in the style of the period.”Around the World in Eighty Days, St. Michael's Playhouse — North Country Public Radio
“…it's both mesmerizing and thought-provoking, making for the most satisfying exhibit I've seen in town this year.”I Like the Sound of That, Artspace New Haven — New Haven Independent