Eileen Curley

Dr. Eileen Curley (she/her/hers) is a Professor of English and Theatre at Marist College's School of Liberal Arts, where she teaches courses in theatre history, drama, writing, and literature. She also serves as Editor in Chief of USITT’s quarterly journal Theatre Design & Technology and is the Director of Marist Theatre Program. Her scholarly and artistic work spans theatre historiography, scenic design, and amateur performance studies.

• Academic Roles: Professor, Editor in Chief, Theatre Program Director

Education:

• BA in Theatre (Phi Beta Kappa), Grinnell College
• MA in Theatre History, Indiana University - Bloomington
• PhD in Theatre History, Indiana University - Bloomington

Research Focus: Dr. Curley specializes in 19th-century amateur theatricals, exploring gender subversion, charitable performances, and intersections between disability and design. Her work bridges historical analysis with practical scenography.

Recent Publications examine archival gaps in amateur theatre history, collaborative tensions in professional-amateur partnerships, and the socio-economic dynamics of charity performances. These studies highlight her expertise in blending archival rigor with cultural critique.

Artistic Practice: As a scenic and projection designer, she has contributed to over 50 productions across New York, Indiana, Washington, and Iowa, including six years as Props Master for The Brown County Playhouse. Current projects include scenic design for Into the Woods and The Crucible at Marist College.