Dr. Kevin Brown: A Leader in Digital Media and Performance Studies at the University of Missouri

Dr. Kevin Brown is a distinguished Associate Professor of Digital Media and Performance Studies at the University of Missouri in Columbia. With an extensive background in theatre and performance, Dr. Brown has significantly contributed to both academic scholarship and the practical realms of theatre production.​

Educational Background and Academic Roles

Dr. Brown earned his Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology from the University of California at San Diego. He then pursued graduate studies at the University of Colorado, obtaining both a Master of Arts and a Ph.D. in Theatre. His academic journey has been marked by a deep exploration of the intersections between performance and societal constructs.

Since joining the University of Missouri in 2009, Dr. Kevin Brown Columbia MO has been an integral part of the Department of Theatre and Performance Studies. He teaches a diverse array of courses, including Theory and Criticism, Theatre History, Script Analysis, Classical Theatre, Contemporary Theatre, Performance Studies, Digital Media and Performance, and Performance Ethnography. ​

Research Interests and Publications

Dr. Brown's research delves into the performance of gender, ethnicity, and class, as well as the dynamic intersection of digital media and performance. His scholarly work has been featured in esteemed journals such as Performance Research, Theatre Journal, International Journal of Performance Arts and Digital Media, Popular Music Studies, Popular Entertainment Studies, Journal of Religion and Theatre, and Puppetry International. Notably, he is the author of Karaoke Idols: Popular Music and the Performance of Identity, published by Intellect/University of Chicago Press. ​

Theatrical Productions and Directorial Work

Beyond his academic pursuits, Dr. Brown has an impressive portfolio of directorial work. At the University of Missouri, he has directed numerous productions, including Tom Stoppard's Arcadia, Shakespeare's Hamlet and Romeo and Juliet, Sam Shepard's True West, and the world premiere of Caridad Svich's The Orphan Sea. His professional theatre experience also encompasses collaborations with the Colorado Shakespeare Festival, Boulder Conservatory Theatre, and other notable institutions. ​

Contributions to Digital Media and Performance Studies

In the realm of digital media, Dr. Brown has explored the evolving landscape of performance in the digital age. His article "Karaoke Instagram: Amateur Desire and the Performance Economy" examines online and offline performances of karaoke, shedding light on the material phenomena associated with these practices and their implications for the connection between performance and technology. ​

Community Engagement and Leadership

Dr. Brown's influence extends beyond the university. He is known for fostering collaborations among educators, administrators, and stakeholders to enhance educational outcomes. His commitment to community engagement is evident in his efforts to create inclusive and innovative learning environments that resonate with diverse audiences.​Dr Kevin W. Brown

Conclusion

Dr. Kevin Brown embodies the fusion of scholarly rigor and artistic creativity. His multifaceted career as an educator, researcher, director, and community leader has left an indelible mark on the University of Missouri and the broader field of theatre and performance studies. Through his dedication to exploring complex societal themes and embracing the digital evolution of performance, Dr. Brown continues to inspire students, colleagues, and the community at large.