Overview

With over a decade of experience in musical theater education and directing, Jacob is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of performers through an innovative, movement-based approach. Jacob earned a BFA in Musical Theater from the University of Michigan and an MFA in Movement from London's Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, with additional training in Meisner Technique at NYC's Neighborhood Playhouse.

A seasoned musical theater performer, Jacob's credits span off-Broadway stages, iconic NYC Cabaret venues and regional theaters across the country. His international production work has graced stages in London and Italy, bringing a diverse array of firsthand experience to his practice.

While at the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music, Jacob served as adjunct professor of Acting and as movement director within the Opera department. He also served as the chair of the Performing Arts Department at The Miami Valley School in Dayton, OH, where he founded a musical theater program, directed over a dozen shows, and received several regional awards for his productions.
Jacob's current research investigates the role of the body in actor training, with a focus on how somatic awareness, spatial attunement, and ensemble responsiveness contribute to authentic performance. Drawing from Zen meditation, Viewpoints, and devised performance practices, his work explores how embodied processes can cultivate presence, emotional connection, and adaptability in live performance. 

Information

Academic Interests and Expertise

BFA, Musical Theatre, University of Michigan, MFA Movement, Royal Central School of Speech and Drama

Areas of Teaching Interest

Directing the Musical, Acting 1, Senior Capstone, Musical Theatre History, Audition Techniques, Musical Theatre Scene Studies

Working Papers

"Bodies in Between: How a movement practitioner can use Zen principles of attunement to bring about the optimal state for performance."

Awards and Honors

Darwin T. Turner “Champion of Diversity,” Office of Ethnic Programs, University of Cincinnati
Four-time winner: Outstanding Overall Production, Miami Valley HS Theater Awards
Dorothy Johansen Hauck Endowed Faculty Fellowship, Wichita State University, 2025-26

Grants

Principle Investigator - Grant-funded Research (ARCS) Wichita State University, 2025

Areas of Service

College of Fine Arts Technology Committee