Asa Leininger

I earned my BA in Theatre and History from Missouri State University, where I trained across a wide spectrum of theatrical disciplines: from acting and directing to playwriting and dramaturgy. 

Watch my interview here.

My time there was shaped by both rigorous academic study and hands-on performance work, appearing in classical plays, devised works, and new student-written pieces. I was also proud to graduate Magna Cum Laude and receive recognition through the Don and Betty Wessel Award for Academic Excellence.

Over the years, I’ve performed in and supported a range of productions—from Shakespeare to contemporary drama—in regional theatre and university settings. I’ve worked both onstage and off, with experience in stage management, educational theatre outreach, and new script development. 

I’ve written short plays, supported fellow writers through dramaturgy, and led student workshops focused on creative expression and ensemble building.

Outside the theatre, I’ve had the opportunity to work in education in a variety of roles. I’ve served in behavioural support positions and worked closely with young people in environments where social and emotional learning is just as important as academics. I’ve also designed and facilitated youth programming with a focus on diversity, inclusion, and global perspectives—drawing from my own interest in cultural history and intercultural dialogue.

Currently, I live and work in Spain as a TEFL Conversation Assistant, collaborating with university faculty to create engaging, discussion-based English classes that cover not only language skills but also American history, media, and culture. 

I’m passionate about helping students build confidence and communicate meaningfully, whether they’re preparing for international travel, future careers, or just everyday conversation.

Throughout all of this, storytelling has been my throughline—whether it’s crafting a monologue, guiding a student through a tough idea, or finding the right words to bridge cultural gaps. I see myself as someone always in process: learning, listening, and striving to make space for others to grow too.