Joshua Denning, M.F.A.
Elder Memorial Theatre Center Rm 124A
402-465-7552
"Looking for the sound that cuts through the noise" - Joshua Denning
Joshua Denning, originally from Louisville, KY, is a director and educator who previously served on the acting faculty at Houston's prestigious High School for the Performing and Visual Arts (HSPVA), where his leadership earned multiple awards, including a Congressional Certificate of Recognition for his direction of The Wiz, numerous YoungArts winners, Broadway World Austin awards, and Heller Awards for Young Artists. He holds an MFA in Directing from the University of Idaho and a BFA in Acting with a Musical Theatre Emphasis from Wright State University. Joshua has performed in international Broadway productions, Equity regional theatre, Equity national tours, and Norwegian Cruise Line productions, with notable credits including The Lion King (Simba, Theatre Im Hafen, Hamburg), We Will Rock You (Britney, Theatre 11, Zurich), Priscilla Queen of the Desert (Tick/Mitzi, ZACH Theatre), Les Mis茅rables (Enjolras/u/s Valjean, ZACH Theatre), Next to Normal (Dr. Fine/Madden, ZACH Theatre), RENT (Angel, ZACH Theatre), and Hairspray (Seaweed, ZACH Theatre). His contributions to musical theatre curriculum are featured in the widely used textbook Acting in Musical Theatre: A Comprehensive Course.
MFA Directing, University of Idaho
BFA Musical Theatre, Wright State University
Intro to Musical Theatre
Musical Theatre II
Musical Theatre III
Senior Showcase
Professionalism and Preparation for Theatre
Private Voice/ Musical Theare Studio
Advanced Dance Techniques
Joshua Denning鈥檚 research explores the integration of traditional theatrical methodologies with innovative, interdisciplinary practices in musical theatre performance and pedagogy. Building upon an extensive background in directing, teaching, and performance, Denning investigates how cross-disciplinary approaches can deepen the educational and practical experiences of students pursuing careers in theatre.
Currently a Visiting Assistant Professor at Nebraska Wesleyan University, Denning is dedicated to advancing curricula that fuse historical context with modern-day applications. His teaching focuses on techniques for authentic character portrayal, vocal and body awareness, and performance versatility. Denning鈥檚 work also examines inclusive pedagogical practices, with particular attention to mentoring diverse student populations. This inclusivity shapes his broader research into creating equitable spaces in performing arts education.
Denning has also directed numerous productions, employing collaborative design and production processes that highlight a comprehensive understanding of theatre as an interdisciplinary art form. His recent projects reflect his commitment to producing dynamic, professional-quality performances that prepare students for industry challenges.
Through his research and teaching, Denning continues to explore how emerging trends in theatre, such as digital media integration and social media engagement, can broaden the impact of live performance. By emphasizing skill development, cultural awareness, and industry preparedness, Denning鈥檚 research advances pedagogical strategies that not only enrich his students' training but also contribute to the evolution of musical theatre education in a rapidly changing artistic landscape.
During my time in Austin Texas, I had the incredible opportunity to pose for The Cycle of Terror and Tragedy, the monumental 笔颈别迟脿 painting by renowned artist Graydon Parrish pictured above. Known for his masterful technique and meticulous attention to detail, Graydon is one of the most accomplished contemporary realist painters, often drawing comparisons to the great academic masters. His works, housed in major collections like the New Britain Museum of American Art, capture human emotion with staggering intensity. It was a profound experience to contribute to his work, which memorializes the emotional weight of 9/11 and stands as a testament to his remarkable skill and artistic vision.
- Congressional Certificate of Recognition for Direction of The Wiz, Kinder High School for The Performing and Visual Arts 2023
- Heller Award for Young Artists, Best Technical Execution, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, McCallum Fine Arts Academy 2022
- Greater Austin High School Musical Theatre Award for Best Set Design, Grand Hotel, McCallum Fine Arts Academy 2020
- Broadway World Austin Award for Outstanding High School or College Production, Catch Me If You Can, McCallum Fine Arts Academy 2017
- Greater Austin High School Musical Theatre Award for Best Ensemble, West Side Story, McCallum Fine Arts Academy 2017
- Greater Austin High School Musical Theatre Award for Best Technical Execution Me and My Girl, McCallum Fine Arts Academy 2016
- Central Texas Excellence in Theatre Award for Outstanding Academic Theatre, McCallum Fine Arts Academy 2016
- Broadway World Austin Award for Outstanding Cast of a Musical, Priscilla Queen of the Desert, ZACH Theatre 2016
- Greater Austin High School Musical Theatre Award for Best Ensemble, Titanic, McCallum Fine Arts Academy 2016
- Central Texas Excellence in Theatre Award for Outstanding Academic Theatre, McCallum Fine Arts Academy 2015
- Broadway World Austin Award for Best High School or College Production of a Musical or Play, The Producers, McCallum Fine Arts Academy 2015
- Broadway World Austin Award for Best Scenic Design, The Producers, McCallum Fine Arts Academy 2014
- Broadway World Austin Award for Best Family Friendly Production, Les Miserables, McCallum Fine Arts Academy 2014
- Broadway World Austin Award for Best Direction of a Musical, Bonnie & Clyde: A New Musical (Texas Premiere), McCallum Fine Arts Academy 2013
- Austin Critic's Table Award for Best Supporting Actor for Angel in RENT, ZACH Theatre 2011
- B. Iden Payne Award for Outstanding Ensemble Performance for Angel & Collins together in RENT, ZACH Theatre 2011