The Department of Theatre notes with sadness the passing of Mr. Phillip Giberson, who was the founding Director and Chairperson of FIU’s Department of Theatre. Upon his arrival at FIU in 1972 Mr. Giberson, or simply Phil as he was more commonly known, took on the responsibility for the total development and administration of production oriented programs, which led to the establishment of the University’s first BFA degree in Theatre. He worked at FIU for seven years, receiving tenure and promotion to Associate Professor and earning the respect and love of his colleagues and students. From FIU, Phil went on to explore other creative ventures, but he returned to the University in 2004 as an Adjunct Professor to teach Directing for the spring semester. In 2010 he very generously donated most of his personal theatre library to the Department of Theatre.
Phil earned his B.A. in Speech & Drama, with a concentration in Acting, from the University of Florida, (Class of ’64). He went on to earn an M.A. in Speech and Drama, with a concentration in Directing/Theatre Management, from Memphis State University, (Class of ’70). After graduating he joined the faculty of Memphis State University as an Instructor until summer 1972.
In addition to his significant contributions to the Department of Theatre here at FIU, Phil worked at The Players Repertory Theatre in Miami as its Interim Artistic Director, he founded, developed and administered a professional conservatory at the Players State Theatre Conservatory in Miami, and worked on over seventy productions as a free-lance Stage Director and was an Adjunct Professor at The American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York.
Phil was a talented artist and innovator who took advantage of opportunities to demonstrate his skills both regionally and nationally. He received many accolades for his work in the press, including such newspapers as the Miami Herald, the Memphis Press Scimitar and The Commercial Appeal.
Phillip Giberson touched the lives of many and will be greatly missed.
For those interested in celebrating Phillip’s life, there will be an Open House on Sunday, March 30, from 3:00pm – 6:00pm, reminiscing to begin at 4:30pm, at:
The Curtiss Mansion
500 Deer Run
Miami Springs, Fl 33166
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in his memory to:
The Curtiss Mansion
PO Box 661494
Miami Springs, Fl 33166
