MC Theatre Department welcomes new shop superhero
Maryville College might not be in Gotham City, but that doesn’t stop a certain crime-fighting hero from visiting the campus. The Fine Arts department at MC has always provided students with resources they need to succeed, but this year they have a new support system. He has fluffy fur, a wagging tail, and an unbreakable love for plywood: Theatre Production Instructor and Technical Director Kevin Grigsby’s (‘05) dog Batman.
Batman began his series of appearances at the beginning of the school year, when he felt lonely being left at home while Grigsby was busy working at MC’s Clayton Center for the Arts. According to Grigsby, the pup looked so sad being left on his own. The energetic Batman wasn’t used to being home by himself, and it was heartbreaking to see. That is when Grigsby decided to bring Batman with him to class.
“My wife Nicci (‘08) was the one who said, ‘You should do that, the kids would love him!’” said Grigsby.
When asked how students have reacted to Batman’s presence, the response was highly positive.
“Kids find him comedic to have around,” said Grigsby, “and some of them are in love with him.”
Batman keeps students company as they work towards building up their theatre shows, whether students are building sets or designing posters. From getting students’ blood pumping with a game of fetch to simply sitting and looking cute, it is certain that Batman is a new star member of the Theatre Department.
In addition to moral support, Batman also helps students with getting their classwork done. Students in Grigsby’s theatre production class are required to visit the shop and help to build the current show for a few hours every week, and Batman has turned into a great motivation for them to do so.
“Some students even plan to come to shop hours on the days he’s here,” said Grigsby.
One student who frequently uses Batman as a sense of motivation to get work done in the shop is Sam Amour (‘27).
“There are days I really don’t want to go to shop, and then someone sends me a picture of Batman and I’m instantly up and out the door,” said Armour. “It’s my bat signal!”
Batman has his own Instagram run by Armour, @batmantheshopdog, which has become a popular page amongst Fine Arts students. He is also in training to become a therapy dog, so even more people can experience his canine company.
Batman the super pup has certainly become a hero to MC, and Fine Arts students are excited to work with him for years to come.
Batman likes to sit on the shop couch with students as they unwind from a hectic day. Photo courtesy of Sam Armour (‘27).
Kevin Grigsby (‘05) holds Batman, who tries to be a lapdog despite his size. Photo courtesy of Sam Armour (‘27).
Batman wears his signature goggles as he plays with his chew toy. Photo courtesy of Kevin Grigsby (‘05).
Batman wears his Halloween costume with pride, representing his namesake superhero. Photo courtesy of Kevin Grigsby (‘05).
Batman in his winter wear, preparing for a day of fun. Photo courtesy of Kevin Grigsby (‘05).