The University of Missouri will welcome acclaimed performer and alumnus Jason Forbach, BM ´00, to campus Sept. 29 through Oct. 1, introducing students to a MizzouMade professional artist whose career spans Broadway, opera, television, filmmaking and writing. The Mizzou Arts Visiting Artist is supported by the Larry D. and Yvonne Murray Clark Opportunities for Excellence Endowment in the College of Arts and Science. 

“Mizzou Arts is excited to bring artists such as Jason to campus as it allows students to learn directly from professionals — and especially a Mizzou alum — who have built successful careers in creative fields,” said Cathleen Fleck, Director of the School of Visual Studies and Director of the Arts in the College of Arts and Science. “Jason's multidisciplinary background provides a unique example for students of several different arts fields to ask questions, gain insight into their industry and envision inspiring possibilities for their own futures.” 

Recognized as a commanding and charismatic vocalist, Forbach earned a Bachelor of Music from Mizzou and received the Chancellor's Emerging Artist Award before completing a master's degree with distinction from New England Conservatory. His career has taken him from Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center to Broadway productions of Into the Woods, Les Misérables, The Phantom of the Opera, Ragtime and A Wonderful World. He also has appeared on television programs including Law & Order: SVU, FBI and America's Got Talent.

“This career is rarely a straight line,” said Forbach, “If I can help make that line a little straighter for someone else, unburden them of some of the unnecessary beliefs we carry about ourselves, the business, and our relationship to it, and help them navigate those competing dualities, then that, to me, is the ultimate measure of success.”

During his visit to Mizzou, Forbach will meet with students in digital storytelling, screenwriting, theatre and musical performance courses, sharing insights from his professional journey and discussing pathways to careers in the arts. 

The visit continues his longstanding commitment to arts education. Throughout his career, Forbach has delivered guest lectures and master classes at universities and conservatories across the country, including previous engagements at Mizzou. 

“I believe artists are continually both students and teachers," said Forbach. "Growth and evolution are part of the artistry itself. It continues to be the greatest gift to work with people of all ages and share that belief. Coming back to Mizzou is especially meaningful because I have the chance to echo the teachers who had such a profound impact on me here, while passing on what I’ve learned.”

While much of Forbach’s time on campus will be dedicated to students, he will also be available to engage with the community during the following public events:  

• An audition workshop from 4 to 6 p.m. Sept. 30 in Sheryl Crow Hall, located in the Sinquefield Music Center. 
• A convocation at 3 p.m. at Whitmore Recital Hall, located in the Fine Arts Building. 
• Two opportunities during the Root/Route Alumni Exhibition:
  • A School of Visual Studies alumni panel from 4 to 5:30 p.m. Oct. 1 in Bingham Gallery, located in the Fine Arts Building. 
  • An alumni exhibition reception from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Oct. 1 in Bingham Gallery.