Michael Petyak

About Michael Petyak

I am a movement-focused theatre practitioner and educator specializing in fight direction, intimacy direction, and physically expressive performance.As Resident Fight & Intimacy Director and Movement Instructor at Seton Hill University, I work with emerging artists to develop physical storytelling grounded in consent, clarity, and technique. My teaching draws from the Laban Method, Michael Chekhov Technique, Grotowski-based practices, and a wide range of stage combat disciplines.I bring professional experience as an Actor, Singer, Director, Intimacy Professional, Stunt Performer, and Stunt Coordinator, and I am a member of AEA, SAG‑AFTRA, and IATSE (Locals 3 & 489).Outside of performance, I trained as a culinary chef in Pittsburgh and New York City, an experience that continues to inform my collaborative approach, attention to process, and respect for craft.I currently hold a Pennsylvania English/Language Arts teaching certification and remain committed to inclusive, rigorous, and embodied learning environments.

Experience

1. Adjunct Professor

   Seton Hill University

   Apr 2022 — Present · Greensburg, PA, US

   Adjunct Faculty Appointment since Spring 2022 in the Department of Theatre & Dance at Seton Hill University.Created the following courses and curriculum:Acting to MovementAdvance MovementVoice & Speech for the ActorResident Fight/Intimacy Director for the performing arts center.

Education

• University of Idaho

  Master of Fine Arts, Theatre/Theater

• Shenandoah University

  B.F.A, Music Theatre (2012)

  2008 — 2012

• Shenandoah University

  Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.), Musical Theatre

  2008 — 2012