‘It’s Alive’: New professor arrives in CMU theatre department

With a passion for performing arts, Professor Anne Mcalexander joined CMU’s Department of Theatre and Dance this fall, bringing a rich background in theatre and musical production. After earning her M.F.A. in directing at Ohio University, she taught as a Visiting Assistant Professor of Musical Theatre at the University of Kentucky. She then served for four years as an Assistant Professor of Musical Theatre and Directing at Nebraska Wesleyan University, where she taught courses in musical theatre techniques, acting, directing, advanced dance, and coached musical theatre voice. 

 Despite only recently joining the CMU faculty, Mcalexander has already directed and choreographed a Fall production of the 2007 Broadway hit Young Frankenstein. This project was an opportunity for her to prepare CMU students for the demands of Broadway-style productions. Her goal was to train her students in the dancing and acting skills that are needed to thrive in the professional world of musical theatre.  

 One of Mcalexander’s research interests focuses on practices in theatrical intimacy direction. Prior to her arrival at CMU, she did a research project on adapting practices specifically for theatre and rehearsal classrooms. Currently, Mcalexander is training with theatrical intimacy directors and coordinators as she works toward her certification as a theatrical intimacy director so she can bring these practices fully into the classroom. 

At CMU, Mcalexander’s goal is to foster an inclusive and creative environment where students feel empowered to share their voices and passions within the field of theatre. She is dedicated to building a supportive community for aspiring theatre artists, helping them find their place and purpose in the industry. Mcalexander expresses hope that the field of theatrical arts will remain a space where all artists can make bold, authentic statements and contribute meaningfully to the art form.