Dr. Julisa Rowe is a distinguished performer, director, and scholar with over three decades of experience in theater and dramatic arts across multiple continents. Born in Zimbabwe and having lived in Kenya, her early exposure to diverse cultures would later influence her professional trajectory and academic interests. She completed her undergraduate studies at Westmont College, earning a BA in Theatre Arts and English, followed by an MA in Intercultural Ministries and a Doctor of Missiology with a focus on Ethnodramatology from Western Seminary. Her professional career spans both performance and academia. For 14 years, she toured professionally throughout the United States, presenting original one-woman shows that incorporated both dramatic and musical elements. Her work in Kenya has been particularly impactful, where she served as a theater professor at Daystar University for 11 years. Her presence in Kenyan media includes appearances in several local television series, including "Briefcase Inc.," "Groove Theory," and "One in a Million."
As the country director for ACT Kenya (Artists in Christian Testimony International), Dr. Rowe has been instrumental in promoting culturally appropriate drama and worship expressions in churches worldwide. Her work extends beyond religious contexts to include community theater, school productions, and professional performances. Her recent focus has been on playback theatre and creating dramatic works that address mental health issues. Dr. Rowe's academic contributions include several peer-reviewed articles on ethnodramatology and a book on dramatic reading. Her expertise was recently recognized at the 2024 Kenya Theatre Awards, where she received the award for "Best Performance By a Female Actor in Monologue." Dr. Julisa Rowe resides in Kenya.