This thesis argues the necessity for continuing to support women's empowerment in South Asia through arts education. This essay chronicles my own experience teaching a beginning acting class and directing a production of Medea , between May 24 and July 8, 2013, for the summer session at the Asian University for Women in Chittagong, Bangladesh. Chapter 1 provides a brief overview of the history and the political climate of Bangladesh at the time, along with the goals of the University and unique makeup of its student body. Chapter 2 will examine the in-class actor training, the rehearsal process, and the students' preparation for their performance of Euripides's Medea. Chapter 3 will review how the class experience and performance affected the participants and contributed to their leadership abilities, communication skills, and personal development.