University of Missouri Department of Theatre

The Department of Theatre at the University of Missouri, also known as MU Department of Theatre, has a rich history dating back to 1922 when a group of student thespians established The Missouri Workshop Theatre as an extracurricular activity. The department's growth was significantly influenced by Professor Donovan Rhynsburger, who joined the English faculty in 1925 and served as the producing director for the workshop. Under his leadership, the department evolved into a reputable theatrical enterprise, contributing to the cultural life of the campus and the surrounding community. Over 250 productions were presented during Rhynsburger's tenure, including the innovative Rooftop Theatre Under The Stars. Rhynsburger's multifaceted role in the department's early history included responsibilities as a teacher, director, producer, and designer. He was instrumental during World War II, initiating the Rinsewater Rag newsletter for Missouri Workshop members serving in the armed forces. His establishment of the Original One Act Playwriting Contest recognized the talent of Tennessee Williams, who was then a journalism student at the university. Additionally, Rhynsburger created the Intramural Play Tournament, which later evolved into the Missouri High School Speech and Debate Tournament. In 1960, the department's vision of an academic program in theatre was realized with the completion of The Fine Arts Building and University Theatre. This milestone led to the development of undergraduate and graduate degree programs, an expanded curriculum, and unique initiatives such as The Summer Repertory Theatre and The Black Theatre Workshop. The department was part of the Department of Speech and Dramatic Arts until 1986 when it gained independent status within the School of Fine Arts. Today, the MU Department of Theatre offers BA, MA, and PhD degrees in Theatre, with a curriculum that encompasses dramatic literature, performance studies, theatre history, design, technology, and creative collaboration. The department's production program showcases theatre in action, enhancing students' performance skills and fostering continuous exploration of theatre creation processes. The Interactive Theatre Troupe (ITT), founded in 2003 by Theatre professors Suzanne Burgoyne and Clyde Ruffin, is another significant component of the department. The troupe was initially part of a multi-campus initiative sponsored by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. ITT became a central part of Mizzou’s Difficult Dialogues program, funded by the Ford Foundation from 2006 to 2010. The program focused on diversity and interactive theatre, creating new scripts, training actors, and performing extensively, including for the MU chapter of the NAACP and Black History Month events. ITT has also been involved in projects addressing gender issues in STEM fields through the National Science Foundation ADVANCE grant and has developed performances on media's impact on body image and nutritional choices. A notable project funded by the Susan G. Komen Foundation of Mid-Missouri involved interactive theatre dealing with doctor-patient communication about breast cancer. The ITT's work has expanded through grants and initiatives, including a partnership with the Ellis Fischel Cancer Center for breast cancer research. The troupe's repertoire addresses various social issues, and its performances have been featured at multiple conferences and universities. ITT has become part of the MU Center for Applied Theatre and Drama Research, continuing to develop scripts and performances that engage and educate audiences on critical topics. Overall, the Department of Theatre at the University of Missouri has established itself as a nationally recognized program, dedicated to preparing students for participation in society and fostering an appreciation for human existence through the study and practice of theatre.