Muleskinner

Issue date: 2/28/08 Section: Features

Dr. Julie Pratt [Click to enlarge]

To some people, she is known as an instructor of great influence. To others, she is a silhouette of style. Either way, Julie Pratt is a dynamic force on and off the University of Central Missouri campus.

As an associate professor of theater and graduate coordinator for her department, Pratt has worked hard to push her students toward success.

For seven years, she has taken pride in inspiring students beyond what they're comfortable in and showing them what they're capable of doing.

"I try to get to know the students and provide them an environment to help them grow," she said.

Pratt always knew she wanted to play a significant role in the theater industry, but wasn't always in her chosen field.

"I worked in business, but I soon discovered that it wasn't feeding my soul," she said.

Her passion for theater and teaching led her to obtain a master's degree in acting and directing and a doctorate in Theater Education from Bowling Green State University.

Pratt is well-respected by her students. Jennifer Fugate, junior theatre and Spanish education major and stage manager, said she is inspired by her presence.

"Dr. J is determined to make things happen for you," she said. "She's willing to do whatever it takes."

Moments before the production of a show, Pratt can be seen giving words of encouragement to students and reaffirming what she has already taught them.

"Her enthusiasm pumps me up," said theater major Ashley Ayres. "She brings theater to life!"

Outside of campus productions, Pratt is heavily involved in theater in the community. She said she believes in getting recharged and reconnected outside of her priority of teaching theater.

Pratt serves as vice president for membership and marketing at the Association for Theater and Higher Education, along with membership in other organizations including National Communication Association - Theater Division and the Speech and Theater Association of Missouri. Pratt maintains focus with these outside influences.

"I can give back to the profession while sharing projects and services with colleagues," she said. "We help each other figure out problems that may arise."

Many in the theater world have noticed Pratt's dedication and commitment to theater.

She has been the recipient of awards like the Faculty Achievement honor from the College of Arts and Sciences and the 2006 recipient of the National Communication Association Theater Division Excellency in Teaching and Service.

"I've been humbled by the awards I have received," she said.

Pratt continues to challenge herself with new projects and ideas. In a recent visit to Istanbul, Turkey, she spent three weeks working with a puppet master to study the culture of shadow puppetry for an upcoming production.

She is working on a music CD and balancing audition invitations from production companies in Tennessee, Cleveland and New York.

"It's been an amazing journey," Pratt said.

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