1930: E. Turner Stump, newly hired English faculty member, combines fraternity drama clubs and Alpha Psi into the University Theatre producing group.

1930s - 1950s: Under Professor Stump's direction, University Theatre transforms from a club into a nationally recognized major academic division. Two performance spaces are constructed for the Theatre Department.

1948: Professor Harry G. Wright, with permission from Professor Stump and KSU President George Bowman, arranges the lease of the Showboat Majestic from Captain T.J. Reynolds. The Majestic operated during the summer, sailing up and down the Ohio and Kanawha Rivers. The City of Cincinnati has owned the Showboat Majestic since 1967. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and as of 2013 was the last floating theatre in the United States.