Show-Me State Times

Two faculty members from Saint Louis University's Theatre and Dance department received accolades at the 2025 St. Louis Theater Circle Awards.

Nancy Bell, a professor of theatre, was recognized as Outstanding Director of a Comedy for her work on “As You Like It,” which also won Outstanding Production of a Comedy. Lucy Cashion, an associate professor of theatre, directed “Romanov Family Yard Sale,” earning the award for Outstanding Ensemble in a Comedy.

Bell expressed her excitement about the recognition: “It always feels wonderful when people go to the trouble and expense to acknowledge your work publicly and festively,” she stated. She emphasized the collaborative nature of theater by sharing her award with those who contributed to the success of "As You Like It," including the audience at Forest Park.

Cashion echoed similar sentiments regarding her recognition: “Recognition can be embarrassing because it always feels like I'm taking credit for something that required the contributions of so many other artists and institutions,” she explained. She highlighted that the "Best Ensemble" award for "Romanov Family Yard Sale" was fitting due to its multimedia theatrical experience involving multiple contributors.

Cashion also discussed how her academic role influences her professional work: “My work at SLU is intertwined with my professional work,” she said. She noted that plays developed at SLU were later produced professionally, often involving students and alumni in various capacities.

In addition to Bell and Cashion's achievements, three other SLU faculty members were nominated for awards. Gary Wayne Barker, a professor of theatre; Denisse Chavez, an assistant professor of visual and performing arts; and Joel Moses, an adjunct theatre faculty member, all received nominations for their contributions to different productions.

Reflecting on the evening's successes, Bell remarked: “The Theater Circle Awards were a big night for SLU theatre faculty.” She stressed the importance of active professional engagement among faculty members in enhancing student learning experiences.

A complete list of winners from the 2025 Theater Circle Awards is available online.