Rich Brown

Professor Rich Brown, PhD, is a distinguished faculty member at the Department of Theatre & Dance at Western Washington University, where he also serves as the Chair. With a profound commitment to the craft of acting and movement, Professor Brown has cultivated a rich academic and professional career centered around psychophysical acting, Suzuki, Viewpoints, commedia dell'arte, and devising. His expertise in these areas has made him a sought-after educator and workshop leader, both within the United States and internationally. Throughout his career, Professor Brown has demonstrated an unwavering dedication to the education and training of students in the performing arts. His approach to teaching is deeply rooted in fostering creativity and self-expression, encouraging students to explore and expand their artistic boundaries. Under his guidance, students are not only trained in the technical aspects of theatre but are also inspired to develop their unique artistic voices. Rich Brown's contributions to theatre education have been recognized with numerous accolades, most notably the prestigious Carnegie Foundation's Washington Professor of the Year award in 2015. This honor reflects his exceptional impact on students and his innovative approaches to teaching and curriculum development within the department. In addition to his teaching responsibilities, Professor Brown is actively involved in directing and devising theatrical productions. His work often integrates various performance techniques, creating dynamic and engaging experiences for both performers and audiences. His leadership within the department has been instrumental in shaping a vibrant and supportive environment for undergraduate theatre artists. Rich's influence extends beyond the classroom, as he continues to contribute to the broader theatre community through workshops, intensives, and collaborations. His passion for the arts and commitment to excellence have left a lasting impression on students, colleagues, and the field of theatre education as a whole.