At the beginning of February 2026, the School of Theatre and Dance welcomed visiting students from Hyōgo, Japan. Visitors took part in the professional College of Arts and Tourism (CAT) program, Japan’s first professional, practice-based performing arts university program. This program integrates artistic training with tourism, cultural policy and community engagement. Kent State University’s partnership with CAT creates opportunities for international exchange, shared educational perspectives and cross-cultural learning in performing arts education.
“This visit represents a meaningful step toward long-term collaboration between Kent State University and CAT, highlighting the value of international exchange in performing arts education and the shared emphasis on hands-on, practice-based learning,” said Jakyung C. Seo, professor of lighting design and Associate School Director for the School of Theatre and Dance.
Students were selected for this program based on their motivation, preparedness and alignment with the educational objectives of the exchange. CAT collaborates with a wide range of international universities, theatres, cultural institutions, festivals, tourism organizations and local governments to provide the best experience for selected students. These partnerships allow students to participate in exchanges across Japan, the United States, Korea, Europe and Taiwan.
During their visit, the students attended a variety of classes, including Global Theatre, Character & Scene Study II, Acting for the Camera I and more. This selection of courses allowed them to engage with KSU students and faculty alike. While on campus, students also toured the Center for the Visual Arts, Rockwell Hall and the KSU Museum. Near the end of their visit, the students also had the opportunity to get exclusive tours of Cleveland Play House and Cleveland Public Theatre.
