Iowa Central Community College has announced Sean Mulvihill as its new director of theater.

Mulvihill replaces Teresa Jackson, who retired. He brings with him an extensive professional performance history that began at the age of 16, along with more than 20 years of teaching and writing experience.

“I’ve been drawn to performing for as long as I can remember,” he said. “I loved the way stories came to life on stage — how you could take an idea or emotion and give it form through your body, voice, and presence.”

His passion for theater led him to earn a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Acting from the University of Southern California in Los Angeles, and a Master of Fine Arts in Physical Theatre completed in Europe, mainly in Italy, awarded by Mississippi University for Women. Along the way, he’s directed award-winning films, performed in a six-month residency in a Macau casino, and led productions at the Exuberant Theatre Company in both New York City and San Diego.

“I’m still deeply moved by how theatre builds empathy,” he said. “That moment when an actor surprises themselves or when an audience collectively gasps or laughs — that’s magic, and it never gets old.”

As the new director of theater at Iowa Central, he wants to bring that energy to the college and the greater Fort Dodge community.

“There’s something special about building theater in a tight-knit place where you can really make an impact,” he said. “I want to help students discover their unique voices and bring high-quality productions to life right here at home.”

His vision for the program includes strengthening community partnerships, launching student-led initiatives, exploring devised and physical theater, and creating opportunities for new play development.

Mulvihill is also a passionate improviser, having trained at all three of New York’s major improv schools: UCB, the PIT, and Magnet Theater. Whether leading warm-ups, directing productions, or offering individualized coaching, his approach is grounded in ensemble-building, physical storytelling, and creative exploration.