Playing many roles

A theatre major with a minor in arts administration, Marissa transferred to Northwestern for a well-rounded education in both theatre and faith. She participates in theatre productions and works as a teacher’s assistant and in the costume shop. She was the student government junior class representative and is now one of the student leaders for orientation. After college, Marissa hopes to work as a graphic designer for a creative company and eventually open a family community theatre.

Trying it all
Many theatre programs require students to choose a concentration in theatre. Northwestern encourages us to try it all! In just one semester, I might act, design, run sound or lights, and usher. We become skilled at many things.

Community + theatre
The small campus provides connection with peers and mentors. I live in Texas, so home and family are quite a trip away. Because of this, I have really had to build a community in Iowa to avoid heavy homesickness. The theatre faculty are like family.

Love skills + practical skills
Something that I think is really unique to Northwestern is that they teach their students to love first. Northwestern is teaching us to answer the fundamental questions of “Who is my neighbor?” and “How can I love them?” Along with that, we learn the practical skills, such as, “I sew them this costume,” “I teach them multiplication,” or “I give them medicine.” Northwestern teaches us both love skills and practical skills.

The story of redemption
One of my theatre professors, Dr. Robert Hubbard, always makes a habit of drawing our learning back to our faith. When we read a play, he makes sure we understand its redemptive qualities that reflect Christ’s mercy. Once we had to rehearse on a Sunday. He said, “Isn’t it a good thing that the stage is an altar and our rehearsal is worship?”