Tamiko Washington

Tamiko Washington is an Associate Professor and Chair of the Department of Theatre at Chapman University’s College of Performing Arts, with a concurrent role as Director for BFA in Theatre Performance. She is a Certified Associate Teacher of Fitzmaurice Voicework® and co-founder of OC Centric, Orange County’s New Play Festival, now in its 13th year.

• Education: BFA from Alliant International University, MFA in Acting from University of California, Irvine

Her research and practice focus on American Noh Theatre, which merges Japanese Noh traditions with Suzuki methodology. She also explores mindful filmmaking, evidenced by her 2024 role as Mindfulness Coordinator in the UK short film Leave Something That Persists. Washington’s pedagogical philosophy emphasizes excellence, teachability, and purposeful performance.

Her scholarly activities include peer reviews for the Athens Journal for Humanities and Arts (2024) and publications on vocal health. She has directed numerous productions, including Vinegar Tom (2018), Hoodoo Love (2019), and The Case for Conrad Cooper (2016). Awards include the Margaret Hartford Award, two Valerie Scudder Awards, and the Kennedy Center Excellence in Education Award.

Washington collaborates with students and professionals in OC Centric, employing Chapman University theatre majors in technical and performance roles. She also works as a private vocal consultant in Los Angeles and maintains memberships in Actors' Equity Association, VASTA, and the Screen Actors Guild.