Patrick Orr did his undergraduate studies in Theatre at the University of Vermont graduating in 1977. The first technical director hired by the Department of Theatre he has been in his position since 1983.

A native Vermonter, Patrick has been active in technical theatre since his high school days in Barre, Vermont. He is a charter member of  Vermonts stage hands union IATSE 919 and was active on its executive board for over 15 years. He has also chaired its safety compliance and education committees.

Patrick brings a diverse background in technical production to the Royall Tyler Theatre. He has toured nationally with Placido Domingo as tour carpenter, designed off-Broadway, has worked on several major motion pictures and provided consulting services for theaters on subjects ranging from speciality rigging to pyrotechnics and special effects. In 2012 Patrick received outstanding support staff of the year award from UVM's College of Arts and Sciences.