Whit Emerson, Ph.D.

Position

Affiliate Faculty in Musical Theatre

Email Address

Whit.Emerson@sckans.edu

Bio

Whit Emerson is excited to be an Affiliate Faculty member at Southwestern College. He holds a Ph.D. in theatre from Indiana University, an MA in theatre from the University of Central Florida, and a BA in theatre from Appalachian State University. Whit’s research explores both the theory and practice of how Hong Kong artists use theatrical performance to construct identities that reflect the modern global city. Whit maintains his creative work through acting and directing, with a specialty in engaging the actor's physical instrument. He is an Advanced Actor Combatant in the Society of American Fight Directors with certifications in all eight weapons and is in the process of becoming a Certified Teacher. Whit has published book reviews in Asian Theatre Journal, TDR, Texas Theatre Journal, and Theatre Topics. He has also been published in The Fight Master. In the classroom, Whit has been committed to incorporating global theatre texts in all of his courses, making a point of teaching students how to critically engage with unfamiliar cultural practices and political ideas through theatre.