By May Hunter, For Iron County Today
Southern Utah University’s Department of Theatre, Dance, and Arts Administration welcomed 44 schools and more than 1,250 students and theatre educators from across Utah to Cedar City for the state’s premier secondary theatre conference, DramaCon, held January 22–24, 2026.
Conference participants engaged in a wide range of workshops, showcases, and educational sessions, while also attending multiple theatrical productions presented throughout the weekend. Celebrity guest Lisa Hopkins Seegmiller, Tony Award-winning, Grammy Award-nominated singer, actress, and Professor of Voice, directed several masterclass workshops. She also shared her inspiring journey, culminating in a Grammy Award win, with a packed auditorium of DramaCon attendees, one of the highlights of the three-day conference.
SUU’s production of Pippin, directed by Britannia Howe, was presented during the conference. A celebrated Broadway musical originally produced by Stuart Ostrow and directed by Bob Fosse, Pippin explores themes of self-discovery, ambition, and the search for purpose, resonating with audiences through its blend of spectacle, storytelling, and emotional honesty.
In addition to university productions, attendees enjoyed performances from secondary schools, including Parowan High School’s Hadestown and Cedar High School’s Into the Woods, offering a diverse and inspiring sampling of theatre at both the secondary and university levels.
“Hosting DramaCon alongside Pippin is a powerful opportunity,” said Brian Swanson, chair of the Department of Theatre, Dance, and Arts Administration. “It allowed students and educators from across the state to experience live theatre in a professional university setting while engaging in meaningful conversations about storytelling, artistry, and purpose.”
The Utah Theatre Association’s decision to host DramaCon at Southern Utah University highlights the university’s longstanding commitment to arts education, community engagement, and supporting the next generation of theatre artists and educators.
Drama education is essential for students, helping to build critical life skills, enhance academic performance, and foster social-emotional development. It builds confidence and self-esteem while providing a safe, supportive environment for students to express themselves. Through drama, students learn collaboration, clear and kind communication, active listening, and respect for diverse perspectives, skills that extend far beyond the stage.
