John Mayer
Department
Theatre
Biography
I received my Ph.D. from the University of Missouri in 1993 in Theatre History and my MFA in Acting from Western Illinois University in 1985. I have performed at Playhouse Merced in Proof, The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged), The Wizard of Oz, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, and Copenhagen for UC Merced. Summers, I have worked with the Snowy Range Summer Theatre in Laramie, Wyoming in Headset, ART, and The Complete Works again. I am vice president of the board of directors for Playhouse Merced.
Academic Credentials
B.A. (non-traditional programs) - Western Illinois University (1983)
M.F.A. (acting) - Western Illinois University (1985)
Ph.D. (theatre history) - University of Missouri (1993)
Area of expertise
Acting, Directing, and Theatre History (specifically American Theatre of the 1930's)
What have you learned from your students?
They make me relive the joy of "the first time" on a daily basis.
Why do students choose CSU Stanislaus?
Close to home for most, but beautiful campus and great class size for others.
How do students succeed in your class?
By working hard and committing to the processes I initiate.
What brought you to CSU Stanislaus?
A better job opportunity than I had at the two-year college where I was.
If you were not teaching, what other career do you see yourself in?
Full-time actor/director or stay-at-home dad
Describe a former student who has attained professional success.
Michael Boatman from TV's SPIN CITY and ARLISS, and also Broadway with Danny Glover. Many students are active in the field in varying degrees. One of our Stanislaus graduates is working for 101 Productions (production manager for SPAMALOT) in New York City after an internship there.
E-mail Address
jmayer@csustan.edu
