Daniel Ruiz Bustos (Scenic Design, He/Him/Él) is a proud Mexican scenic designer currently completing his MFA in Theatre with an emphasis in Scenic Design at The University of Texas at Austin, expected to graduate in May 2025. With over a decade of multidisciplinary experience across film, interactive media, drama, dance, and music, Daniel’s collaborative and interdisciplinary approach is central to his design philosophy. Recent highlights of his work include Ephemera Genesis at The Cohen New Works Festival (2025) and an innovative collaboration with FUNDACIÓN ÉPICA La Fura dels Baus in Barcelona (2024), where he co-created an interactive performance exploring the physicality of artificial intelligence. His notable designs also include La Bohème for Butler Opera Center (2023), in collaboration with lighting designer Zach Young. This production featured dynamic moving scenic elements and integrated lighting as a powerful visual narrative, reimagining the world of the bohemian artists. Daniel’s current academic research culminates in his thesis project, Escenografía Viva (Live Scenography), which explores the integration of scenic elements with human movement, seeking to redefine traditional theatrical experiences. Additionally, his creative portfolio extends to the realm of film; his work Eva/Ana was showcased at the Sound of Silent Film Festival in Chicago in 2016. Daniel holds a Postgraduate Specialization in Scenic Design from CENTRO and a Bachelor of Engineering in Computer Science and Technology with a concentration in Filmmaking from Tecnológico de Monterrey. His diverse educational background and dedication to artistic collaboration continuously inspire him to push boundaries and expand the possibilities of live performance.
