Karla Kash (She/Her) is an Associate Professor and Director of Theatre at Heidelberg University, bringing over 30 years of experience as an actor, director, choreographer, and theatre educator. A multidisciplinary artist, Karla is a member of the Society of Directors and Choreographers (SDC) and Actors’ Equity Association (AEA). 

On stage, Karla has tackled powerhouse roles such as Barbara in August: Osage County (Repertory Theatre of Iowa), Diana in Next to Normal (Des Moines Onstage), and Susan in [title of show] (StageWest). A career pinnacle was performing as Josie in A Moon for the Misbegotten at North Coast Repertory Theatre, acting alongside her mentor, the late Jonathan McMurtry.

Behind the scenes, her professional directing and choreography credits include Parade, Avenue Q, and Spring Awakening (StageWest), as well as The World Goes ‘Round for the International Lyric Academy in Italy. She also served as the Fight Director for the Broadway National Tour of La Cage Aux Folles. At the university level, she has helmed landmark productions like The Prom and Macbeth. Karla holds a BFA from Wright State University and an MFA from Brandeis University. She is a recipient of the Madlyn Levitt Mentor of the Year award.