Hans Hlawaty grew up busy with a mix of academic and creative pursuits. Between upper-level and AP classes he found time for theater and nearly every school musical ensemble. These varied interests paid off; the University of Oregon's Honors College admitted him with a Laurel Scholarship, and the School of Music opened its doors to him shortly thereafter. By the end of his sophomore year, Hlawaty was creating the musical score for "Tumbler" (in which Hlawaty also starred). As the composer, conductor, and producer of the score, Hlawaty learned the meaning of hard work, weaving a zero-dollar budget and a handful of student musicians into a widely-praised mix of jazz, blues, and funk.

"Jacks" was his next undertaking, with Hlawaty again starring in the film, and producing and composing the soundtrack. Hlawaty also got his feet wet in the business end of entertainment as he dealt with local and national record labels to license additional artists for the score. Following "Jacks" Hlawaty gigged professionally in the Willamette Valley, and composed freelance material for local artists

The production of "Westender" is Hlawaty's biggest undertaking to date. Fitting his duties as Producer around his on-set responsibilities as Assistant Director, he juggled personnel, locations, transportation, and scheduling while relentlessly cracking the whip on sets filled with wounded soldiers and mounted knights.