more about this very serious goofball.
writer. director. educator.
Joe Schupbach is a writer, director, and dramaturg with 19 years of professional theatre and storytelling experience. Schupbach is also a K-12 teacher, professor, and instructional coach. Yes, I am writing about myself in the third person.
Curriculum vitae
Learn more about my experience and work history.
Testimonials
“Having witnessed and mentored Joe as a teacher, director, and writer, I venture to say that ‘equity’ is more than an idea for him, it is his mission, and this concept spills into all elements of his creative and teaching practice.”
“Mr. Schupbach takes the time to get to know students and to meet them ‘where they are at’ in their unique personal narratives and learning journeys. He offers students ways to show what they know, in a strengths-based approach to teaching and learning. He exhibits a joyful and hardworking spirit in serving students and staff alike. ”
“Joe was always very adamant about giving us feedback to help us improve. He always allowed us time to discuss our ideas and how we felt about certain activities.”
“Joe brings a warm, collaborative energy to the rehearsal room. He consistently assembles stellar production teams and has a knack for building ensemble from the very beginning. As a director of devised work, Joe honors the source text while creating space for actors to build freely and playfully. ”
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MY VALUES
In all of my work, both in the classroom and in the rehearsal room, I value collaboration, ensemble, empathy, access, equity, sustainability, representation, new voices, safe spaces, curiosity, and kindness. I am committed to executing anti-racist, intersectional-feminist, and trauma-informed practice.
get a taste for my work
About Me
Age 7
Massachusetts born; Chicago raised.
After a modest career as a child actor in Massachusetts, I moved to Chicago and began training with Lookingglass Theatre Company. I am a Chicago Public Schools graduate, hold a BA in Theatre and Performance Studies from North Park University, an MFA in Dramatic Art from the University of California, Davis, and an MFA in Creative Writing from Roosevelt University. I am a founding member of Murakami Sound Machine, the co-founder of InGen Productions, and an emeritus member of Playmakers Laboratory Theatre where I was Artistic Director for three years. I am the creator and host of Mirepoix Podcast, an adjunct professor, an instructional coach for Embarc, and the Artistic Director of Plant Performance Project.