Chrissy Calkins Steele

Chrissy Calkins Steele is a Professor of Theatre and Chair of the Theatre and Dance Department at Principia College. She specializes in teaching acting, voice, movement, and Shakespeare, while co-leading UK study abroad programs focused on Shakespearean performance. Her scholarly work bridges interdisciplinary approaches to Shakespearean performance and actor training methodologies.

Education:

• MFA, Interdisciplinary Arts, Goddard College
• MA, Shakespeare Institute, Birmingham University, UK
• BA, University of Iowa (Phi Beta Kappa)

Research & Creative Practice: Steele's interests center on voice pedagogy (Linklater), physical alignment techniques (Miracle Ball Method/Eginton), and Michael Chekhov's acting methodologies. She emphasizes the creative process in actor training and Shakespearean performance practices. Her work often explores how interdisciplinary approaches can deepen textual and physical interpretation.

Professional Contributions:

• Founding member of Bankside Repertory Theatre Company (Alton, IL)
• Co-founder of Kaleidoscope Children’s Theatre Company (Chicago)
• Artistic associate with Moving Dock Theatre Company

Awards & Recognition: Recipient of the Harper Award for Teaching Excellence (2018) and KCACTF Certificate of Merit (2014). Active presenter on Shakespearean language and actor training at regional and national conferences.

Performance & Collaboration: Maintains active roles with regional theatre companies across Illinois, Missouri, Iowa, and beyond. Served as a workshop artist for organizations like Urban Gateways and Lutheran Social Services.