As this academic year comes to a close, we are proud to reflect on what our School of Theatre & Dance has accomplished—onstage, behind the scenes, and throughout our community.
This season brought audiences face to face with powerful stories. Productions like Hamlet, Lizzie, DanceTech, and Sweeney Todd explored themes of loss, revenge, resilience, and sacrifice. These are not easy stories—but they resonated. Thanks to exceptional artistry and enthusiastic word of mouth, we welcomed some of the largest audiences in my 14‑year history. Highlights included sold‑out performances of Sweeney Todd, even on the same evenings that George Strait filled a nearby stadium and most of the surrounding parking.
That level of engagement speaks volumes.
We were also delighted to welcome back our Producer’s Circle this year, offering patrons special behind‑the‑scenes experiences and events. One particular highlight was a visit from two actors known for their major roles on Downton Abbey, made possible through the generosity of the TTU Museum. Collaborations flourished as well—especially our partnership with the School of Music on Sweeney Todd, beautifully directed by guest artist Jim Wren and performed with two full casts.
Beyond campus, our faculty and students continued to make their mark nationally and internationally. They coached dialects at major theatres, worked and trained abroad in Japan, Turkey, and Prague, published scholarship, earned prestigious awards, participated in festivals, and launched our first Dance Study Abroad program in Spain.
Yet it was the everyday moments of teamwork and generosity that most clearly defined the year.
When an unforeseen scheduling conflict with a major stadium concert threatened our performances, students, faculty, and staff worked quickly and creatively to ensure the show could go on. Students volunteered early mornings and long hours to manage alternative parking and assist our patrons. Their professionalism and commitment ensured that audiences were welcomed and performances ran smoothly—an inspiring example of ensemble in action.
That same spirit extended throughout the year. Our designers helped bring the Lubbock Arts Festival to life. The School hosted two College Days, welcoming dozens of prospective students to campus. Faculty and staff supported UIL events, partnered with local schools and arts organizations, and expanded outreach efforts across the region. This June, dance will launch its first WildWind Intensive. BurkTech also marked its tenth anniversary with a moving production centered on the lived experiences of individuals challenging and redefining perceptions of disability.
Together, these efforts reflect a shared belief: while performance is central to what we do, our mission is rooted in collaboration, outreach, and community engagement. We aim to develop artists who understand that their work has the power—and the responsibility—to connect, to challenge, and to contribute. Art does not exist in isolation, a principle embodied in our Theatre & Dance in the Community course, required of every student.
Finally, we are proud to recognize Dr. Bill Gelber for his decades of extraordinary service to the university and the Lubbock community. His recent receipt of the William Kerns Award for Performing Arts is richly deserved. His legacy, built on generosity, excellence, and dedication, will continue to shape this School for years to come.
Thank you to our audiences, supporters, students, faculty, staff, and partners for making this such a remarkable year. We look forward to what lies ahead.