Recent News

Oluwaseun S. Olayiwola (B.F.A. 2018) is currently a Fulbright Scholar pursuing an M.F.A. in Choreography at Trinity Laban in London, England. As an advocate for the arts and a Nigerian-American artist, Oluwaseun hopes to engage residents with dance during his two years in the program and contribute toward the Nigerian diaspora’s representation in the arts landscape.

Alumnus Cosme Flores (B.F.A. 2018) was recently cast as "Ben" in Power Rangers: Beast Morphers, set to air on Nickelodeon in 2019. Featuring an all-new cast of heroes and villains, Beast Morphers will expand the Power Rangers universe with tactical leather suits, 'Beast Bot' sidekicks and elevated battle footage.

Alumna Karen Rodriguez (B.A. 2013) is one of the newest members of the ensemble at Steppenwolf Theatre Company. Rodriguez recently performed at Steppenwolf in The Doppelgänger (an international farce) and The Rembrandt.

Professor Susan Mickey was recently nominated for a Joseph Jefferson Award (Equity) in Costume Design for her work in The Taming of the Shrew (Chicago Shakespeare Theater). These prestigious awards honor outstanding theatre artists in the Chicago area by recognizing excellence through its recommendations, awards and honors. The 50th Equity Awards will be presented October 22, 2018 at Drury Lane Theatre (Oakbrook Terrace, IL). 

Kirk Lynn (Playwright) and KJ Sanchez (Director) discuss the life and art of the late Leonard Bernstein as the world celebrates the centenary of his birth. Exploring his spirit through devised theatre techniques, biography, contextual history and music theory, this new work attempts to capture the passion and art of an American musical legend.

Flordelino Lagundino (M.F.A. 2004) was named the new Artistic Director of Park Square Theatre in Saint Paul, Minnesota. Lagundino is a director, actor and producer whose performance in VIETGONE led to a Best Ensemble Ivey Award. He is the Sir John Gielgud Classical Directing Fellow at Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival.