Dan Bacalzo

Dan Bacalzo is an Associate Professor and Program Coordinator of Theatre at Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU), affiliated with the Bower School of Music & the Arts. He holds a Ph.D. and M.A. in Performance Studies from New York University, along with dual B.F.A. and B.A. degrees in Theatre Performance and English Literature from Wichita State University.

His research focuses on Community-based Performance, Asian American Theatre, Dramaturgy, and Theatre History. He teaches courses such as Applied Theatre, Script Analysis, and Theatre History, emphasizing interdisciplinary and socially engaged practices.

Bacalzo’s creative work includes directing productions like Machinal (FGCU, 2019) and The Virginity Monologues (2003), as well as dramaturgical roles with the Guinea Pig Lab and other theater companies. His scholarly publications explore topics ranging from David Henry Hwang’s plays to queer performance and ecocritical perspectives in drama.

He has received grants such as the National Endowment for the Humanities Summer Scholar Grant (2015) and FGCU’s Innovative Assignment Award (2017, 2016). His creative and academic work often intersects with themes of cultural identity, community engagement, and experimental performance.

Bacalzo previously served as Artistic Director of Peeling, an Asian American performance collective (2001–2003), and has performed in multiple venues, including solo works like Sort of Where I’m Coming From (1998–2002).