Missy Thibodeaux-Thompson is a professor of theatre in the Art, Music, and Theatre Department.
What do you like about your job?
I love being in a rehearsal hall, helping students discover new aspects of a character, which in turn allows them to discover new aspects of themselves. In addition, I love working with students in studio classes and performance-based classes, such as Principles of Acting or Voice and Movement, where they often surprise themselves with their capabilities when working with a dramatic text—or even a poem.
We are all capable of such beautiful human expression, but often as adults, we’ve forgotten how to use our human instrument to the best of its ability. I like to think these classes and productions are avenues to reawaken not only our creative spirit but also our authentic selves.
How did you get started in your career field?
I was initially a "choir geek" in grade school and middle school, but in high school, I was cast in the chorus of Fiddler on the Roof—and I was hooked. I found my people in the theatre community, and ever since I knew I had to create theatre. I majored in Drama Education at the University of Texas at Austin, performed with the Austin Shakespeare Festival and other local companies, and later taught high school theatre while acting on the side in Austin.
Wanting further training as an actor while continuing to teach, I pursued an MFA in Acting. After graduating, my husband and I moved to NYC, where we worked day jobs while pursuing acting. I then landed a one-year role as a visiting professor and actor at Cornell University, which led me to a three-year lecturer position at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. My husband and I followed each other around the country over the years, and we moved here in 2002 when he was hired to start the Theatre Program here. Four years later, I applied for my position via a national search, and the rest is UIS history!
Have you traveled to any interesting places?
I spent a month in Prague in the summer of 2019 as a student, attending workshops led by theatre professionals worldwide. I performed in Love’s Labour’s Lost with the Prague Shakespeare Company, an experience that reinvigorated me as an actor. The trip deepened my love for international travel and introduced me to lasting friendships. Our cast even reunited over Zoom in 2020.
I have traveled through Germany, Austria, and Hungary with my husband for our 30th anniversary. I have been to England multiple times, including a summer at Oxford during undergrad where I also visited Ireland and Scotland. I can’t wait for the next adventure.
What’s your favorite type of cuisine?
This is a tough one—but as a certified Cajun, born in Lake Charles, Louisiana, with deep Cajun roots, I could easily say Cajun food. In all honesty, though, I just love food—and I love to cook!
Cooking is my love language. I enjoy making a big pot of gumbo for guests, especially the leftover Thanksgiving turkey gumbo, which is always the best of the year. I also love trying new recipes. Preparing and sharing good food brings me joy.
Getting to Know You is recurring feature in the Chancellor's Newsletter to highlight our many talented UIS employees.