Rob Kimbro returns to Rice, focusing on ‘stories that matter’
When Rob Kimbro graduated from Rice University in 1995, he said he envisioned a career in the United States Foreign Service. Now, nearly three decades later, he returns as a full-time lecturer in the theatre program having established himself in Houston’s theater community and as a mentor to Rice students.
Initially drawn to political science and history, Kimbro’s path shifted dramatically when congressional hiring freezes in 1996 halted his plans. Kimbro said that theater, initially a hobby and a side job to earn extra cash during his undergraduate years, quickly became his primary passion.
“I took the Foreign Service exam [when I was a senior] and was headed to the State Department,” Kimbro said. “They didn’t recruit Foreign Service officers for a while, and I kept doing what I did at Rice, which was theater.”
This shift set Kimbro on an unexpected career trajectory, with various odd jobs such as carpentry at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo and lighting and set construction at local venues like Hamman Hall and the Alley Theatre. Kimbro said these experiences laid a foundation for his creative growth, teaching him adaptability and versatility.
His directorial debut came shortly after his graduation when he was invited back to Rice to direct Baker Shakespeare’s production of “Much Ado About Nothing.” Greg Marshall ’86, director of university relations and Baker College associate, said he remembered the show as a turning point for Kimbro.
“Rob got to live out every actor’s nightmare — having to step in overnight as the lead actor when the original performer injured himself,” Marshall said. “Rob learned the lines and blocking overnight and was terrific. The show did go on, and it was memorable.”
This show marked the beginning of Kimbro’s long-lasting relationship with BakerShake, a tradition he said he holds dear.
“Of all the college theater traditions at Rice — and there are many — there’s nothing quite like BakerShake,” Kimbro said. “I’ve always loved the classics. That’s been a thread in my career throughout.”
Kimbro said his ties to Rice deepened over the years as he repeatedly returned to direct plays, teach courses and mentor students. His engagement intensified further around 2010 when he began guest lecturing, eventually teaching full courses in contemporary dramatic literature. His passion and dedication made a strong impression on students.
Cece Gonzalez, a theatre minor at Baker, said Kimbro’s teaching transformed her approach to theater.
“Rob had a clear purpose for the class — to help students develop their personal canon of theater literature,” said Gonzalez, a sophomore. “It really helped me branch out and read more plays. He genuinely cares about students and theater.”
CJ Friend, a coordinator for student-run theatre company The Rice Players, also said they appreciated Kimbro’s accessible and student-centered approach.
“It’s encouraging that an alumnus keeps returning to work with the Rice theater community,” said Friend, a Jones College sophomore. “It’s giving back, and it speaks volumes about his passion. He offered his experience freely, making our productions stronger.”
Juan Sebastian Cruz ’16, who performed under Kimbro’s direction, said he remembered him as not just a skilled professional but also a caring mentor.
“When I was a student, Rob really believed in me and gave me a chance,” Cruz said. “It’s no surprise he’s teaching full-time now. He’s always given back and has greatly enriched Rice theater.”
Kimbro said he’s excited to continue fostering the rich, student-driven theater culture at Rice.
“The Rice Players trace their history back to the Rice Dramatic Society — the oldest continuous theater group in Houston,” Kimbro said. “The diversity of students — engineers, mathematicians, English majors — all collaborating in theater, is incredibly valuable.”
Marshall said he is thrilled about Kimbro’s new role given his importance to Rice’s arts community.
“Rob brings institutional memory and continuity,” Marshall said. “His creative ideas, like merging Baker Shakespeare with Rice Players for a spectacular production of ‘Macbeth’ at Hamman Hall, reflect his innovative spirit. His appointment will immensely benefit Rice theater.”
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