About Me

I’m Anna Skidis Vargas, a director, actor, playmaker, and educator. I currently serve as Assistant Professor of Performing Arts and Resident Director at St. Edward's University and Mary Moody Northen Theatre (MMNT) in Austin, Texas. I hold an M.F.A. in Directing from the University of Texas at Austin and a B.A. in Performance from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville.

My directing work spans across a variety of theaters, including ZACH Theater, Zilker Theatre Productions, First Stage, Madison Children’s Theatre, and Texas State University to name a few. I’m also honored to have been part of the 2018-21 Rising Leaders of Color cohort with Theatre Communications Group. In addition, I’m the Founding Artistic Director of Theatre Nuevo in St. Louis, where I had the privilege of developing original works that highlight diverse narratives.

As a playwright and deviser, my work is a blend of humor, cultural depth, and social commentary. I focus on reimagining classic narratives and Mexican-American myths, bringing them to life with a contemporary, feminist lens. Whether through radio plays, devised theater, or experimental performances, my work explores complex themes of identity, family, and the human experience, often with a comedic twist.

As an actor and singer, I’ve received recognition for my performances, including two Circle Awards for Outstanding Performance and being named Saint Louis’ Best Female Vocalist by the Riverfront Times in 2014. Some of my favorite roles include Yitzhak in Hedwig and the Angry Inch, Daniela in In the Heights, and Lizzie in Lizzie.

At St. Edward's, I teach courses in Directing, Devising, Acting, Professional Preparation, and Theatre for Social Change. I’m passionate about fostering a brave space where students can develop both their craft and their voice, preparing them to become the next generation of impactful storytellers.

Teaching and Directing Portfolios and reels available upon request.