Kate Compton, MFA

Kate Compton is a director, filmmaker, improviser, educator, and actor who loves to tell stories. She has explored many mediums over the years and uses her time to experiment with all of the different ways that one can weave a tale. She believes in the magic of storytelling in all of its forms...from a simple tale being shared with a microphone on a small stage to a grand, award-winning drama being shown on the big screen. Stories can change people and they can shape the world and everyone has the power to tell them. 

Kate earned her MFA in Acting from Northwestern University and, while there, studied with some extraordinary directors, performers, and artists. She also earned a BFA in Theatre from Michigan State University and a certificate from The Second City Conservatory (paper proof that she is funny). With over two decades of professional experience in Los Angeles and Chicago combined, Kate has worked extensively on both stage and screen. 

Recently, Kate directed, wrote, edited, and produced a short film in conjunction with WSU that is screening at film festivals around the country. That film is titled IT'S NICE TO FINALLY MEET YOU and it follows Hannah, a woman who is feeling anxious about meeting the parents. At its core, this film is a story about resilience and the power of gifts. This year she is working on several other film projects including directing a short comedic horror film that is currently titled BLOOD POTATO and taking on the lead actress role in a feature film titled SWEETIE'S HOME VIDEO. 

As an educator, Kate’s overall goal is to create a brave and inspiring space where students can develop the confidence, resilience, and artistic freedom needed to thrive as creators in the world. She wants students to find their voices and tell the stories they want to tell.