Department of Theatre, Drama, and Contemporary Dance

Appointed to IU in 1971

R. Keith Michael’s professional career began as an actor with the Barter Theatre in Virginia. Having received an undergraduate degree from Indiana University of Pennsylvania, he received his M.F.A from the University of Iowa and Ph.D. from the University of Bristol, England. In 1971 he was asked to serve as the first Chair of the newly created Department of Theatre and Drama at Indiana University. He continued on as Chair and Artistic Director of the Department until his retirement in 1996.

During the course of his career Dr. Michael has produced over 400 plays and served as an office of numerous professional organizations including the presidency of NAST. In 1997 Dr. Michael was the recipient of the Indiana Governor’s Arts Award; in 1999 he was honored by being made a Fellow of the College of Fellows of the American Theatre; and in 2002 he received an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree from Indiana University.