Mary Beth Menna

Mary Beth Menna serves as a Lecturer in the Department of Theatre & Dance at California State University, Dominguez Hills (CSUDH), within the College of Arts & Humanities. An accomplished theatre artist, she brings extensive professional experience as an actress in television, commercials, and independent films, alongside her work as a playwright and director. Previously, she served as Artistic Director of Ark Theatre Company and has taught at Studio School in LA Center Studios.

Her educational foundation includes:

• BA in Theater and Directing from DeSales University
• MFA in Acting from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

Menna's creative and pedagogical focus centers on acting methodologies, playwriting, theatrical direction, and improvisation techniques. Trained at renowned institutions including the Groundlings and UCB, she integrates professional practice with academic instruction through mentorship under industry figures like Alfred Molina, Mel Shapiro, and Bobby Moresco. Her approach emphasizes experiential learning and performance authenticity.

While specific research grants aren't documented, her leadership at Ark Theatre Company demonstrates production management expertise. Current advising likely occurs through Theatre & Dance program coursework and University Theatre productions, where she mentors students in acting and creative development. Her office (LCH B104) serves as a hub for student collaboration in the Loker Student Union arts complex.