Theatre Alumni Spotlight on Mary Bowden ('11)

At Harding, we are proud that our theatre program has welcomed and developed passionate, creative and driven theatre-makers. We are excited to highlight a few of our accomplished alumni and their careers in diverse areas of the arts. Whether gracing the stage and film, working behind the scenes or teaching the next generation, these graduates continue to inspire us with their artistry and commitment.

Their journeys exemplify the rigorous training, collaborative spirit and enduring support that we strive to foster within our department. As we celebrate their achievements, we also look forward to the ways they’ll continue to shape the future of the arts and serve as role models for our current and future students.

Mary Bowden (’11)

Director of Theatre at McCracken County High School in Paducah, Kentucky

What was your favorite theatre class during your time at Harding?

My favorite class was Directing because I use things I learned in that class all the time! But Acting 2 was the class that is the most memorable and really stretched me out of my comfort zone. We always either left that class laughing, crying or frustrated ... very stereotypical for theatre majors!

 What is your favorite theatre memory from Harding?

My favorite memory HANDS DOWN is performing in the musical "The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee" with Searcy Summer Dinner Theatre. The entire cast was stacked with talent and true friends (and my two younger siblings!) and it really felt like we were creating comedy magic every night! It's also a special memory because it's the last time I shared the stage with one of my best friends, Blake Hunter. That show was such a gift in so many ways.

What is your favorite part of your job?

Building my department from the ground up is something I am incredibly proud of. I love directing the plays and musicals here as well. The extracurricular productions are my favorite because we get to put what we learn into practice! Last year we began competing with our musical, and not only did our production receive more nominations than any in the state, but I was also able to send my lead actor to the Jimmy Awards! It was incredibly rewarding.

What advice would you give to current students?

Learn as much as you can and really soak up every experience while in college. Allow yourself to fail, but jump right back in. Audition more than you think you should. Become sufficient in more areas of theatre than just what you love. Try everything! And then when you graduate ... keep learning! The world of theatre is constantly evolving!