Marlis Schweitzer

Dr. Marlis Schweitzer is a Professor and Chair of the Department of Theatre, Dance & Performance at York University’s School of the Arts, Media, Performance & Design. She holds a BA and BFA from the University of Victoria and a PhD from the University of Toronto. Her research bridges material culture, visual culture, and feminist historiography, with a focus on Anglo-American performance from the 18th century to the present.

Her scholarship examines the transnational migration of theatrical objects, repertoires, and political ideas. Notable works include When Broadway Was the Runway (2009), Transatlantic Broadway (2015), and Bloody Tyrants and Little Pickles (2020), the latter earning the George Freedley Memorial Award. Current research, funded by SSHRC, investigates the historical display of human heads in scientific and theatrical contexts (1764–1840s).

Dr. Schweitzer has served as editor of Theatre Survey (Cambridge University Press), co-edited six books, and leads interdisciplinary research initiatives. Awards include SSHRC grants, fellowships from prestigious institutions, and a York Research Chair (Tier II).