“Artists take the world and internalize it and give something back,” Artistic Director and Theater Department Head of Indiana University Jonathan R. Michaelsen said. For Michaelsen, giving back is what his career is all about.

Michaelsen began his career at IU 12 years ago but has been participating in and teaching theater all his life. Throughout his journey, he has discovered that teaching is his ultimate passion. He considers himself lucky to be able to teach yet still allow students to develop on their own. One of the best parts of his job is allowing the students to have creative freedom with how they go about learning the role of the character and how they problem solve.

IU produces an average of three shows during the regular school year but also puts on shows for the summer theatre program. For …
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Students and community members visit the Wells-Metz Theatre to enjoy “Sense and Sensibility.”

Jonathan Michaelson, Chair of the Department of Theatre, Drama, and Dance at Indiana University, dedicates his time to the theatre.

Robbie Stanton, a costume designer for Indiana University, explains his part in bringing the show to the audience.

Jenny McNight and Grant Goodman, hired equity actors, are performing in “Sense and Sensibility” and “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.”

“If we work well together, we’re better,” Jonathan Michaelson, the chairman of Indiana University’s Theatre Department said. The truth of this statement resonates, not just with thespians, but also with audience members.

“We come to a lot of the plays,” said Connie Hegarty, an audience member. Connie Hegarty and her husband Harv Hegarty have been on multiple theater boards and Connie Hegarty spent her childhood going to the theater.

“It’s live entertainment,” said Harv Hegarty, showing …
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