Joshua Denning, M.F.A.
"Looking for the sound that cuts through the noise" - Joshua Denning
Joshua Denning is a director, performer, and educator with a career spanning international Broadway productions, national and international tours, film, and television. Currently a Visiting Assistant Professor of Musical Theatre and Directing at Nebraska Wesleyan University, he previously served on the faculty at Houston’s prestigious HSPVA, where his work earned numerous accolades including a Congressional Certificate of Recognition. As a performer, he has starred in The Lion King (Simba), We Will Rock You (Britney), Priscilla Queen of the Desert (Tick/Mitzi), and originated the role of Daddy Cool in its West End workshop. His creative collaborations include work with Tony®- and Emmy®-winning, Oscar®-nominated director Julie Taymor and Oscar®-nominated filmmaker Richard Linklater, as well as Laurence Olivier Award–winning director Ben Elton. Performance highlights include sharing the stage with Elton John at the BAMBI Awards, Broadway Dreams with Titus Burgess, concerts with Nicole Scherzinger, Tom Wopat, Rosemary Clooney, and Danny Glover, and an appearance in a Queen Latifah music video. He has also recently collaborated with Broadway choreographer Dominique Kelley. Joshua holds an MFA in Directing and a BFA in Acting, and his work in arts education is featured in the textbook Acting in Musical Theatre: A Comprehensive Course. He remains committed to developing bold, collaborative work that inspires the next generation of performers.
MFA Directing, University of Idaho
BFA Musical Theatre, Wright State University
Intro to Musical Theatre
Musical Theatre II
Musical Theatre III
Senior Showcase
Professionalism and Preparation for Theatre
Private Voice/ Musical Theare Studio
Advanced Dance Techniques
Joshua Denning’s research explores the integration of traditional theatrical methodologies with innovative, interdisciplinary practices in musical theatre performance and pedagogy. Building upon an extensive background in directing, teaching, and performance, Denning investigates how cross-disciplinary approaches can deepen the educational and practical experiences of students pursuing careers in theatre.
Currently a Visiting Assistant Professor at Nebraska Wesleyan University, Denning is dedicated to advancing curricula that fuse historical context with modern-day applications. His teaching focuses on techniques for authentic character portrayal, vocal and body awareness, and performance versatility. Denning’s work also examines inclusive pedagogical practices, with particular attention to mentoring diverse student populations. This inclusivity shapes his broader research into creating equitable spaces in performing arts education.
Denning has also directed numerous productions, employing collaborative design and production processes that highlight a comprehensive understanding of theatre as an interdisciplinary art form. His recent projects reflect his commitment to producing dynamic, professional-quality performances that prepare students for industry challenges.
Through his research and teaching, Denning continues to explore how emerging trends in theatre, such as digital media integration and social media engagement, can broaden the impact of live performance. By emphasizing skill development, cultural awareness, and industry preparedness, Denning’s research advances pedagogical strategies that not only enrich his students' training but also contribute to the evolution of musical theatre education in a rapidly changing artistic landscape.
During his time in Austin Texas, he had the incredible opportunity to pose for The Cycle of Terror and Tragedy, the monumental Pietà painting by renowned artist Graydon Parrish pictured above. Known for his masterful technique and meticulous attention to detail, Graydon is one of the most accomplished contemporary realist painters, often drawing comparisons to the great academic masters. His works, housed in major collections like the New Britain Museum of American Art, capture human emotion with staggering intensity. It was a profound experience to contribute to his work, which memorializes the emotional weight of 9/11 and stands as a testament to his remarkable skill and artistic vision.