About Nelson Theatre
Nelson Theatre prepares students to excel in the performing arts with professional training rooted in Christian faith, equipping theatre artists to shine in the darkness. Through hands‑on training, meaningful performances, and a faith‑centered approach to storytelling, you’ll grow as both a theatre professional and a follower of Jesus.
In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.
– Matthew 5:16
Check out more information on our Theatre Degree and the Theatre Education Degree.
The 2026-2027 Theatre Season
The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane
The extraordinary tale of a China rabbit who gets lost, learning the heart of the most breakable kind can love, to lose, and love again. Based on the bestselling children’s novel by Kate DiCamillo that reaches both adults and children alike.
Performances are Friday, November 13th at 10am (Local Student Matinee Performance)
Friday, November 13th at 6pm
Saturday, November 14th at 1pm
Saturday, November 14th at 6pm
Almost, Maine
A vignette style play about the endearing residents of Almost, Maine. This is a heartwarming, hilarious, and unexpected story about the ways people find themselves falling in and out of love.
Performances are Friday, December 5th at 6pm
Saturday, December 6th at 2pm
Saturday, December 6th at 6pm
Frozen
The stage musical based on the award-winning Disney hit. This is the magical story of two sisters that couldn’t be more different and how they find themselves in each other.
Performances are Friday, April 2nd at 10am
(Local Student Matinee)
Friday, April 2nd at 6pm
Saturday, April 3rd at 1pm
Saturday, April 3rd at 6pm
Faculty Information
Jacqueline Cabrera
Jacqueline Cabrera is the Theatre Program Coordinator of Nelson Theatre. Professor Cabrera received her Master of Arts in Theatre from the University of Houston and her Bachelor of Arts in Theatre Education from Nelson.
Nathan Choi
Nathan Choi is the Conductor of the orchestra for Nelson Theatre and a professor of Jazz Studies for the university. He is a versatile musician and educator skilled in guitar (jazz, rock, and classical), electric bass, arranging, and singing. He earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Jazz Studies (composition and guitar performance) from the University of North Texas.
Alison Afshari
Alison Afshari is the Music Director for Nelson Theatre and an adjunct vocal instructor at Nelson. As the owner of Green Room Studios, she teaches private voice and collaborates on theatrical productions across Dallas–Fort Worth. She has a bachelor’s in music education from Nelson University.
Student Involvement
At Nelson Theatre, students do more than perform. They create, lead, and bring productions to life. Through our Directing course, students gain hands-on experience directing productions in our Black Box Theatre. In the Playwriting course, students develop original works that may be selected for production as part of the Nelson Theatre season. Students can also apply to join our Production Team, serving in leadership roles that provide valuable experience in the artistic, technical, and organizational aspects of theatre production. Best of all, these opportunities are open to all Nelson students, so you do not have to be a theatre major to get involved.
Community Opportunities
Nelson Theatre is proud to connect with our community through educational and outreach opportunities. Each February, we host a One Act Play Clinic for local high school theatre programs preparing for UIL competition. Surrounding schools can bring students to a family-friendly Student Matinee Field Trip featuring a full-length Nelson Theatre production during the school day. Local businesses interested in partnering with Nelson Theatre can support Christian arts through program sponsorships, including advertising in our show programs. Whether you’re an educator, student, or community member, there’s always something to see at Nelson Theatre.
Get in touch with us at [email protected].
Performance Spaces
Explore Our Degree Programs
Nelson University offers more than 100+ different degrees from Associates up to Doctoral level. Take classes on-campus or online.