Andrew William Smith

Andrew William Smith is an Associate Professor of Acting at the Carnegie Mellon University School of Drama, where he teaches core acting courses and oversees audition training. As Co-Artistic Director of Project Y Theatre Company in NYC, he produces works centering marginalized voices. His professional acting credits span regional theaters like Quantum Theatre and Pittsburgh Public Theatre, with roles in The Gun Show, Arcadia, and Pride and Prejudice.

• Education: MFA in Acting (University of California, San Diego, 2005), BA in Theatre and English (Middlebury College, 1998).
• Teaching Expertise: Meisner technique, Shakespearean studies, on-camera auditioning, and devised theater.

His research interests include diversity and inclusion in performing arts, creative processes, and the intersection of technology and theater. He pioneered online musical collaboration during the pandemic using Jamulus software. His directing work focuses on new plays, particularly through Project Y’s Women in Theatre Festival and themes of race, feminism, and social media.

Project Y has received grants from the New York State Council on the Arts, New York Department of Cultural Affairs, and The Puffin Foundation. Andrew’s scientific award includes the Teaching Excellence Award from UC San Diego (2005). He resides in Pittsburgh, PA with his family.