Dr. Halena Kays

Biography

Halena Kays is an Assistant Professor who teaches directing at the University of Michigan's School of Music, Theatre & Dance. She leads the head directing program and supervises senior directing thesis projects. As a founding member of the artistic collaborative Ruffians and an artistic affiliate of the American Blues Theater, Kays has made significant contributions to theatrical arts. Her notable roles include being a member of the Big Apple Circus Clown Care unit and the past artistic director of the Hypocrites. She has also co-directed at various venues, including Theater Lake and Playmakers Lab. Kays is known for her direction of various acclaimed productions, showcasing her talent through works like Comfortable Shoes and Burning Bluebeard. Additionally, Kays has garnered accolades like Jeff Awards nominations and the prestigious 3Arts Award, and she is recognized among the top 50 players in Chicago theatre by NewCity. Her educational background includes a Bachelor of Science from Northwestern University and a Master of Fine Arts from the University of Texas at Austin. Kays is a member of the Stage Directors Choreographers Society (SDC).

Research Interests