Melissa Bondar BA, MA, MDiv

Melissa Bondar holds a Bachelors degree in Theatre Production and Literature from Stockton University, a Master of the Arts in Religion and Master of Divinity from Liberty University, and a Master of the Arts in Theatre and Performance Studies from the University of Sheffield.

During her MA at the University of Sheffield, she combined her background in theology with her theatre studies and wrote her dissertation on A Critical Comparison of Religious Theatre in Modern and Medieval Times, focused on the effects the changing nature of community had on religious theatre.

Her academic interests have often had one foot in theory and one in industry. During her time at Sheffield, the program focused heavily on experimental and participatory forms of performance. Combined with her industry experience as a stage and production manager, she was intrigued by many of the unregulated elements of participation.

Combining her background in stage management with an interest in immersive and participatory audience management practices, Melissa’s doctoral research focuses on the shortfalls of risk assessment in immersive performance and how utilizing concepts from care ethics can help bridge this gap.

Outside the academy, Melissa is still an active stage manager and technician. Inside the academy, she continues her doctoral research and teaches undergraduate modules on technical theatre.