Jessica Thebus

Jessica Thebus is a Professor and Director of the MFA Directing Program at Northwestern University's School of Communication. She holds a PhD in Performance Studies and has directed over 20 years of theatrical productions in Chicago and nationally.

• Key affiliations: Goodman Theatre, Steppenwolf Theater Company, Northlight Theater, Lookingglass Theater Company
• Specializes in directing and adapting plays, with a focus on community-centered outdoor spectacles

Her research interests bridge theatre practice with social impact through projects like The Persephone Project and Art Of Spontaneous Spectacle, emphasizing collaborative creation and environmental justice.

Award highlights:

• Multiple Joseph Jefferson award nominations and wins
• Chicago After Dark Awards for directing excellence
• Piven Theatre Visionary Award recipient

She has led the Youth Theater program (1998-2001) and directed notable productions including Sarah Ruhl's Dead Man's Cell Phone and the world premiere of Stage Kiss at Goodman Theatre.