At Southeastern Oklahoma State University, nestled in the heart of Durant, Oklahoma, you'll find J. Matthew Freeman serving as a dedicated Assistant Professor within the dynamic Art, Communication, & Theatre department. He brings a palpable energy and a deep-seated passion for the performing arts and effective communication to his work, standing as a leading figure in exploring the intersections of these vital disciplines. Professor Freeman is widely recognized for cultivating a truly engaging and lively atmosphere in his classrooms, where he generously shares his extensive knowledge and infectious enthusiasm. His approach makes learning not just informative, but a truly captivating and inspiring experience for his students, fostering a genuine love for the arts and the power of communication among those he teaches. His presence significantly enriches the academic landscape at Southeastern, contributing to a vibrant community of learners and artists. Professor Freeman's academic focus and personal commitment extend deeply into exploring the fascinating ways art and communication intertwine, particularly within the rich and complex context of theatre. While the specific avenues of his personal research and scholarly pursuits may not always be extensively publicized, his dedication to understanding, analyzing, and illuminating these fundamental connections is a cornerstone of his academic identity and teaching philosophy. Beyond the structured environment of lectures, discussions, and practical assignments, a significant and perhaps most impactful part of his role involves igniting a spark of curiosity and creativity in his students. He actively encourages them to look beyond the surface, challenging conventional perspectives, and truly immerse themselves in the vast creative and expressive potential that theatre holds as a powerful medium for both individual and collective communication. He acts not just as an instructor, but as a mentor and guide, opening doors to new perspectives and encouraging a deeper appreciation for the craft and its broader societal implications. Through his thoughtful guidance, insightful feedback, and unwavering support, students under Professor Freeman's tutelage are consistently encouraged to push their creative boundaries and diligently refine their artistic and communicative abilities. He provides a nurturing yet challenging environment and the necessary motivation for them to not only hone their technical skills in performance, design, or theory but also to embark on a profound journey of self-discovery within the arts. This process allows them to uncover and explore new, exciting dimensions of artistic expression, finding their unique voice, perspective, and capabilities within the collaborative and individual aspects of theatre production and study. His influence helps shape not just skilled practitioners ready for the professional world, but also thoughtful, articulate, and expressive artists and communicators prepared to contribute their talents and insights meaningfully to their communities and the broader cultural landscape.
Southeastern Oklahoma State University's Theatre program in Durant offers a comprehensive education in the theatrical arts. Students gain a strong foundation in performance, design, technical theatre, and history through hands-on experience in a vibrant schedule of productions. This dynamic program, part of the Department of Art, Communication, and Theatre, nurtures individual talents and encourages exploration of diverse theatrical styles. Emphasizing learning by doing, students actively participate in productions, developing skills both on stage and behind the scenes, including acting, directing, design, tech, and management. The program prepares graduates for a variety of paths within the performing arts and fosters a collaborative community of creatives dedicated to expressing the human condition through art.
Southeastern Oklahoma State University (SOSU) is a public university located in Durant, Oklahoma. Founded in 1909, SOSU is the oldest and largest university in southeastern Oklahoma. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs, as well as a variety of extracurricular activities and student organizations. SOSU is committed to providing students with a quality education and a supportive environment in which to learn and grow.