ABSTRACT
This chapter asserts the necessity of framing theatre as undergraduate research, due to the high-impact practice of undergraduate research activities already taking place in our discipline, and the recognition our students deserve for contributing to the research profile of their institutions and their field. The urgency of preparing the next generation of theatre artists who work toward equity, diversity, and inclusion in our industry is discussed, and undergraduate research is positioned as the barometer for our dedication to these efforts. A call for a holistic approach to undergraduate theatre education is made, in addition to more humane theatre practices that acknowledge work/life balance and self-care. An overview of all the chapters and suggestions for how to use the book are provided.
