OBU Faculty Member Earns Additional Degree

March 1, 2001

Laura Byland, assistant professor of theatre at Oklahoma Baptist University, recently completed the requirements for the master of fine arts degree in drama with an emphasis in lighting design at the University of Oklahoma.

Byland's thesis, "Lighting A Thrust Stage: The Weitzenhoffer Theatre," focused on the theoretical and practical considerations of particular lighting requirements of thrust stages.

In January, Byland served as the guest lighting designer for OU's annual Young Choreographer's Showcase. She also designed the lights for the university's productions of Hedda Gabler, Side Man, The Last Night of Ballyhoo, Forever Plaid, and That Championship Season.

Byland earned her bachelor's degree in theatre at Hiram College and a master's degree in theatre at Oklahoma State University.

She and her husband, David, have three children.