Melissa Owens Kaley

Melissa Owens Kaley is an Associate Professor of Theatre and Chair of the Department of Theatre and Dance at Converse University's School of the Arts, leading Theatre, Musical Theatre, and Dance programs since joining in 2012.

Education:

• MFA in Theatre Performance from Kent State University
• MA in Theatre from Miami University
• BA in English Literature and Drama from LeMoyne College

Research and Teaching Interests: Professor Owens Kaley specializes in the Michael Chekhov Acting Technique, developing individual artistic voices through inclusive creative ensembles. Her expertise spans Acting, Directing, Costume Design, Performance Studies, and international Study-Travel Theatre courses, with active workshop presentations at ATHE, MICHA, SCTA, and SETC conferences.

Scientific Awards:

• 2021 Cato Award for Faculty Excellence from Converse
• 2019 Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival Award for Excellence in Directing
• 2019 Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival Award for Excellence in Playwriting for adaptation of Lady Gregory’s The Dragon

Professional Experience and Advising: With over 30 years as an Equity/AEA actor, director, and designer, she has directed 40+ Converse productions including Urinetown and The Tempest while mentoring students in performance, directing, and costume design. Her Barter Theater residency included roles in The Crucible and The King and I.