Rachel Hoey

Rachel Hoey is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Communication, Media, & Performance at Allegheny College, where she oversees the Acting and Directing programs. She joined the institution in Fall 2022 as a Visiting Professor and was promoted to a tenure-track position. Her teaching includes Acting I–III, Directing I, Theatre for Young Audiences, and Text & Performance. She actively contributes to campus theatre through directing and intimacy choreography.

Educational Background:

• B.A. in Theatre Performance, San Diego State University (2010)
• M.A. in Theatre Performance, San Diego State University (2012)
• M.F.A. in Directing, Indiana University (2020)

Rachel's research and practice focus on theatrical pedagogy, storytelling, and the practical application of techniques from Augusto Boal, Viola Spolin, Uta Hagen, and Anne Bogart. She specializes in arts integration, devised theatre, and improvisation for youth, with a strong commitment to inclusive and socially just performance education. Her work emphasizes consent and intimacy training, which she implements both in the classroom and through workshops for local theatres like The Academy and Meadville Community Theatre.

Though no formal publications are listed, her artistic and educational projects reflect a deep engagement with climate change themes (e.g., Climate Change Theatre Action), youth development, and interdisciplinary STEAM curricula developed in collaboration with Family Biz Kids.

Professional Recognition & Grants:

• Collaborator on an inclusion and social justice grant at Indiana University (2021–2022)
• Participant, Uta Hagen Teacher Training Lab at HB Studios, New York City

Rachel has advised numerous youth and undergraduate students through teaching artist roles and academic instruction. She has served as Interim Education Coordinator and Curriculum Specialist at Stages Bloomington (2020–2022), where she directed The Lightning Thief and Seussical Jr., and directed Puffs! at Greater Boston Stage Company. At Allegheny, she has directed Machinal and Eurydice, and served as Intimacy Choreographer for Head Over Heels.

Training & Affiliations:

• Second City West Hollywood
• Steppenwolf West
• British American Drama Academy – “A Midsummer in Oxford”
• Family Biz Kids (seasonal collaborator on STEAM and leadership curricula)