Dr. Jessica Lanius

Assistant Professor

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Biography

Jessica Lanius is a dedicated Teaching Faculty II at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where she focuses on integrating inventive new works and unique outreach programs within the theatre community. She is the Artistic Director of Theatre LILA, a nonprofit theatre company she co-founded in New York City before relocating to Madison in 2014. Lanius has directed multiple productions including 'Romeo and Juliet,' 'Big Fish,' and 'Midsummer Night’s Dream,' showcasing her commitment to diverse storytelling and social justice. In addition to her directorial roles, she is engaged as a choreographer and director with various theatres, including American Players Theater and Four Seasons Theatre, further establishing her expertise in performance and movement direction. With a background as a working actor for 25 years across prominent locations such as New York and Chicago, Lanius blends her rich experience in acting with her passion for teaching and directing. She is currently co-founding a new multicultural multidisciplinary space, ART House 360, set to open in Spring 2025, further contributing to the richness of the artistic community in Madison.

Research Interests

Experience

Artistic Director

2014-01-01 — Present

Theatre LILA • Madison, WI

Co-founded and currently overseeing a nonprofit theatre company focused on innovative works and community outreach.

Director/Choreographer

2014-01-01 — Present

American Players Theater • Spring Green, WI

Choreographed and directed numerous productions over 8 seasons.

Awards

#

Woman to Watch

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Innovation in Arts Award

Requirements for University of Wisconsin–Madison

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
TOEFL
Total
Required:92
IELTS
Overall
Required:7
Duolingo
Overall Score
Required:125
Overall
Required:125
Prerequisites
Programming experience (Data Structures, Machine Organization) One year college-level calculus
Application Checklist
  • Statement of Purpose
  • CV/Resume
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Unofficial transcripts
Specialization Notes

Department: Department of Computer Sciences