Keith Arthur Bolden, MFA, actor and associate professor of theater and performance, finds that being an industry working professor requires balancing multiple roles simultaneously.

“This season on 'Reasonable Doubt,' I conducted several of my classes virtually from the set. While this was an exciting experience for both my students and me, it can be precarious for production due to the need to maintain confidentiality about the season's secrets,” Bolden said. “Time management is also a significant factor in scheduling courses and professional work. It is extremely difficult, if not impossible, to consistently plan professional acting and directing commitments around a teaching schedule, which is unlikely to change. I might have an audition for a role on a Monday and be working on set that Wednesday. This dynamic is exciting and highly informative for the students, but it certainly impacts my sleep, as I’m committed to both jobs equally.”

Bolden believes his continued success, work, and influence greatly benefit students, the College, and the Atlanta University Center. He actively incorporates industry work into the classroom by inviting working professionals to discuss how projects are made, best production practices, and character development.

“I also use current audition sides for my students when we are working on audition scenes and callbacks. This approach brings best practices and current industry standards directly to the classroom. Since 2020, the industry has shifted significantly, becoming almost unrecognizable from what it was before. My continuous work within the industry keeps me familiar with all these new changes and the current landscape,” Bolden said.

Keith Arthur BoldenThe prolific actor has experience in television, film, and theater, having appeared in programs such as "Fetch Clay, Make Man," "Two Trains Running," “A Raisin in the Sun," "Mile 22," "The Bobby Brown Story," "The Haunting of Hill House," and many more.

The industry-working professors help enrich the student experience, growth and their skill development. Taylor Nicole Mills, C'2026, a theatre major from Atlanta, shared how learning from industry professionals greatly enhanced her education at the College.

"Working with professionals in the industry as a theatre major has helped me tremendously. My favorite example is when my professor, Jade Lambert Smith, invited me to audition for the musical “FELA!" which she produced and directed. I was able to get in and perform professionally on multiple shows. Networking with professional actors and actresses in the industry allowed me to start making a name for myself," Mills said. "Due to performing in multiple shows outside of school, I have learned many skills that I bring back to school to share with my fellow theatre majors. These experiences help me to be a more well-rounded student, preparing me for what’s to come after graduation."

Spelman Artists in the Public Eye

While the spotlight is on Bolden and others who share their art, there is also a need to promote the unsung artists. “One challenge we face at this intersection is effectively promoting working artists within their disciplines versus merely celebrating celebrity. There is a wealth of experience, professional knowledge, and creative production within the arts division at Spelman College, yet many people are unaware of our contributions. This is partly because artists are often trained not to boast about their creative accomplishments,” Bolden said.

By creating better visibility for their contributions, Bolden believes these artists can gain the recognition they deserve and take their rightful place in the spotlight.