Peter Sham

Peter Sham is an Associate Professor in the Department of Theatre Arts & Dance at Southern Utah University, affiliated with the College of Performing and Visual Arts. A world-renowned playwright and director, he is celebrated for his work on Lend Me a Tenor the Musical and his role as Artistic Director for the Neil Simon Festival. Sham has taught a range of courses, including Acting, Directing, and Shakespearean performance, emphasizing innovative casting and emotional authenticity.

Education:

• Masters of Fine Arts in Acting, University of Delaware

Peter Sham’s research and creative work focuses on Shakespearean adaptation, gender dynamics in theatre, and the intersection of classical texts with contemporary performance practices. His productions, such as the gender-bending Hamlet featured in the Adams Shakespearean Theatre, challenge traditional norms and highlight universal emotional experiences.

Awards and Recognition:

• Board of Trustees Award for Excellence
• Kennedy Center’s Excellence in Education Award
• Scholar of the Year (College of Performing and Visual Arts)

Sham’s career spans 12 seasons with the Utah Shakespeare Festival and includes leadership roles in artistic and academic spaces. He prioritizes student growth, aiming to provide transformative experiences through theatre education.