Keith M. Engar Biography

Keith Maurice Engar was born April 2, 1923 in Preston Idaho to Charles J. and Alveretta Staples Engar. Having an eye for performing at an early age, Engar’s first professional role was as a radio actor at the age of 16. His first on stage experience came in 1941 as a freshman in college which gave way to lead roles in Oklahoma, South Pacific, Brigadoon and Kismet among others. Engar received his Bachelors and Masters Degree from the University of Utah, and later his Ph.D. from the University of Minnesota.

He was heavily involved in TV and theatre and went on to become the Director of Radio-TV Services at the University of Utah, a title that included managing KUED, KUER and closed-circuit television. In 1964 he was appointed Executive Director of Pioneer Memorial Theatre and was one of the key players in gaining the University Resident Theatre Association (URTA) ,a formal contract with Actor’s Equity Association. This was done under the premise that a more professional theatre would enable better training for students and better service to the community. During his 25 year tenor he was Chairman of the Department of Theatre and ultimately the Dean of the College of Fine Arts. He was also the Chairman of URTA committee, Chief of Educational Broadcasting Branch, Federal Communications Committee, National Association of Educational Broadcasters and author of numerous articles on educational television and plays.