Department of Theatre and Dance

Dr. Michael Phillips, Associate Professor: Dr. Phillips received his Ph.D. from the University of Oregon in 1996, where his dissertation concerned the philosophical connections between 20th century scientific theories (quantum physics, relativity, and chaos theory) and dramatic literature. He is a professional director, with over 30 full-length professional and university level productions. His professional credits include work with Salem Repertory Theatre in Salem, OR, Lancaster Opera in Lancaster, PA, Lord Leebrick Theatre Company in Eugene, OR, and The Neighborhood Playhouse in Atlanta, GA. He has also worked as a dramaturg, most recently with Sojourn Theatre in Portland, OR. At WOU, Dr. Phillips teaches Theatre History, Dramatic Literature, and Directing.

David Janoviak / Professor: David Janoviak is a professional actor, director and teacher. He is presently assistant professor and head of the Theatre and Dance Department at Western Oregon University. Janoviak has performed at regional and professional theatres across the country and abroad, including The Northern Stage Company, Theatre Hebertot, Actor’s Repertory Theatre, The Dallas Shakespeare Festival and seven seasons with the Utah Shakespeare Festival. Janoviak has also directed over forty productions. He has served as artistic director of the Spotlight Theatre Company for five seasons and has won numerous awards for his acting and directing, including Best of 1990 in Theatre Week Magazine for his performance in the title role of Dr. Faustus. He is presently assistant professor and head of the Theatre and Dance Department at WOU as well as artistic director of Salem Repertory Theatre.

Scott Grim / Professor; Scenic Designer: Scott Grim is currently a Scenic Designer and Associate Professor of theatrical design and technology at Western Oregon University. He holds an M.F.A. in Theatre (Scenic Design emphasis) form the University of Georgia. Mr. Grim has designed numerous theatrical productions outside of WOU, including Leach Theatre in Missouri, Highlands Playhouse of North Carolina and Pentacle Theatre. A number of his designs have been included in the United States Institute for Theatre Technology International Design Archive. He has served as Technical Director at various institutions for over 14 years, including the Jekylle Island Musical Comedy Festival on Jekylle Island, Georgia. Some of the over 40 productions Mr. Grim has designed include Playboy of the Western World, God’s Country, Fuddy Meers, Into the Woods, Macbeth, Noises Off and You Can’t Take it With You.