Janet Hayatshahi

Janet Hayatshahi is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Performing Arts and Arts Leadership at Seattle University, affiliated with the College of Arts & Sciences. Her work focuses on anti-racist performance practices, physical theatre, and theatre as a tool for social change. She holds an MFA from UC San Diego, an MA from San Diego State University, a BFA from Ithaca College, and training from the Pacific Conservatory of the Performing Arts.

• Education: MFA (UC San Diego), MA (San Diego State University), BFA (Ithaca College), Pacific Conservatory of the Performing Arts

Her research explores social problems through performance, re-imaginings of ancient narratives, and interdisciplinary collaborations. She emphasizes non-traditional performance spaces and the intersection of architecture with bodily expression. Professional credits include acting in roles like Roya (Seda Iranian Theatre Ensemble) and directing works such as Love’s Labour’s Lost (Seattle Shakespeare Co).

Her teaching spans courses like Acting I-III, Theatre as Social Change, and Script Analysis. Her publication Resistance (2019) contributes to actor-activation methodologies.