David Cotter

Currently, David is an assistant professor of theatre at Heidelberg University where he teaches courses in musical theatre, acting, arts education, and design. He serves as the resident musical director for musical productions and directs both the on campus show choir (Hei-Notes) and acapella groups (Heimonics) for the University. He also currently serves as the Business Manager for Alpha Psi Omega the National Theatre Honor Society and manages the archives for the organizations which is currently housed on campus here at Heidelberg University.

David previously served as the Managing Artistic Director of Town Hall Theatre, the only theatre in Dayton, Ohio exclusively presenting work for young audiences. During his tenure at Townhall Theatre, he oversaw a facilities upgrade, an educational curriculum overhaul, and developed new work. David was the Director of Education at The Redhouse Arts Center in Syracuse, NY where he supervised a $3.2 million education collaboration program that focused arts integration and collaboration with students in the Syracuse City School District and employed over 30 full-time teaching artists. David is a certified music educator in Ohio and New York and spent time in the middle school choral classroom. He is a frequent presenter at conferences, which include the Southeastern Theatre Conference, American Alliance for Theatre Education, Florida Theatre Conference, New York State Theatre Education Association, and Tedx.

David is an avid musical theatre performer, director, and music director. He attended the Crane School of Music at SUNY Potsdam and the University of Central Florida, and Westminster Choir College.

Courses Taught

THR 105- Stagecraft 1
THR 106- Stagecraft 2
THR 108- Introduction to Acting
THR 219- Theatre Production
THR 250- Makeup for Stage and Screen
THR 270- Principles of Design
THR 320- Musical Theatre Styles
THR 345- Special Topics
THR 445- Advanced Design Practicum
THR 375- Creative Drama
MUS 150B-450B- Hei-Notes
MUS 150D-450D- Heimonics

Expertise

Musical Theatre, Theatre for Young Audiences, Arts Integration and STEAM Education

Research Interests

Musical Theatre, Theatre for Young Audiences, Arts Integration and STEAM Education