Rate My Professor Nicholas Graves

Nicholas Graves is Chair and Associate Professor of Theatre in the Department of Theatre and Musical Theatre within the College of Arts and Media at Sam Houston State University. He earned his Master of Fine Arts degree from Indiana University-Bloomington and his Bachelor of Fine Arts from Abilene Christian University. In his leadership role, Graves oversees a dynamic department that offers Bachelor of Fine Arts programs in Theatre with emphases in Acting/Directing, Design/Technology, and Theatre Studies, alongside programs in Musical Theatre. The department maintains accreditation through the National Association of Schools of Theatre, reflecting high standards in education and production.

Graves is acclaimed for his work in scenic design, serving as the Resident Scenic Designer and Scenic Design Advisor for the department since 2016. He received a Meritorious Achievement Award for Excellence in Scenic Design from the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival Region 6, shared with co-scenic designer Anthony Sloterdijk, for their work on the Sam Houston State University production of the musical Head Over Heels. His scenic designs for SHSU productions also include The Prom, Austen's Pride, Hairspray, and a co-design for Little Women. Additionally, Graves has served as an adjudicator at regional theatre festivals, including the Texas state play festival, where he recognized outstanding student achievements in theatre production. A member of the United States Institute for Theatre Technology, he contributes to the professional development of students and the broader theatre community through teaching, design, and administrative leadership at Sam Houston State University.