Academia

I am a dedicated educator, director, and choreographer in the field of theater and passionate about exploring the intersection of performance, pedagogy, and cultural inquiry. Through my experience teaching in academia, I’ve had the privilege of guiding students through the transformative power of theater—both as an art form and a lens through which we examine the world.

My teaching philosophy is grounded in collaboration, curiosity, and critical engagement. Whether in the rehearsal room or the classroom, I strive to create inclusive and dynamic spaces where students can challenge conventions, take creative risks, and develop their unique artistic voices.

I specialize in Introductory courses in Acting and Performing Arts for non-theater majors, Musical Theater History, Musical Theater Dance History, and Performance-based classes in classical, contemporary and music theater.

I believe in theater’s ability to provoke change, build community, and amplify underrepresented voices—and I carry that belief into every project I undertake.

I am currently teaching:

  • Intro. to Acting at Providence College

  • Musical Theater/Opera Workshop at Providence College

  • Intro. to Arts and the Creative Industries at Bryant University

What students have said:

  • "Professor Pavao is a professor who cares for each and every one of her students 100%. The passion she has for not only acting and theater, but also teaching students about it who don't have any prior interests in acting, is so strong."

    Psychology Student, PC

  • "I was required to take this class and thought that by the end of it, I would have been so glad it was over because of how boring it was. But Katrina was able to make this class so enjoyable and something I wanted to go to every day. Katrina is the most understanding and caring professor I have had at PC.

    Marketing Student, PC

  • "Even though the class isn’t directly related to business, it gave me a real appreciation for how challenging performing in front of others can be. Acting also helped me develop some important business skills like thinking quickly under pressure (forgetting lines/improv) and reading body language (blocking), all of which are important for presentations, interviews, or networking.

    Business Student, PC

  • "Acting class felt like a safe space, and I looked forward to attending each week!"

    Arts & Humanities Student, PC