ABERDEEN, S.D. –Northern State University’s Theater Department has namedDr. Kane Anderson assistant professor of theatre

Anderson earned his Ph.D. in Theater Studies from UC Santa Barbara, MFA in Theatre Performance from Arizona State University, and BA in Theatre Arts from the University of Pennsylvania.  

As an accomplished actor and director, Anderson has worked in theaters throughout the country. Some highlights include playing Macduff in “Macbeth,” Vladimir in “Waiting for Godot,” and Duperret in “Marat/Sade.” Some of his more recent directing credits include “She Kills Monsters,” “Stop Kiss,” and “Goodnight Desdemona (Good Morning Juliet).”

Dr. Anderson's scholarly research examines cosplay, performances of fandom, and the theatricality of superheroes as a means of understanding Americanism.  He is currently working on his book manuscript that includes the outcome of his years-long ethnographic study of cosplayers at Comic-Con International in San Diego. 

As an award-winning teacher, Anderson has taught at the University of Puget Sound and Pacific Lutheran University in Washington. He has taught courses in acting and theater literature as the first Murphy Fellow in Theatre Arts at Hendrix College in Arkansas. 

Anderson will begin effective August 2019, filling the position following the retirement of longtime NSU Theater Director Dan Yurgaitis.

About Northern State University

Northern State University is a regional university that offers outstanding academics and exceptional extracurricular activities at an affordable price on a safe, welcoming campus. Northern State recently announced its Educational Impact Campaign, with a goal of raising $55 million for a new South Dakota School for the Blind and Visually Impaired, new athletic and recreation fields, and an on-campus regional sports complex. Once the campaign is complete, NSU will be the recipient of more than $100 million in privately funded building projects and scholarships within a decade. To learn more, visit NSU Admissions.