Here's an update on the wonderful theatre experinces I've had so far this year.

1)  The classes I'm taking are exciting.  In "Theatre and Society", taught by  Steve Satta, we are learning about different ways to devise original work with specific communities.  We've been working predominantly with tectonic theatre process, but we've also been exploring tactics used by Boal and Joan Lipkin.  In a class titled "Synthesis - Formal Elements," Juanita Rockwell has been aksing us to develop work focusing on single theatrical elements.  We develop original pieces int his class on a weekly basis, and the goal is to sharpen our awareness of our individual voices.  Stephen Nunns is teaching us Avante Gaurde theory so that we know how to tie our work to the theatre that has come before us.  Naoko Maeshiba is leading the program, and on top of bonding our 7-person cohort with an initial physical theatre class, she is encouraging us to create good habits like attending conferences, creating relationships with local theatres, and regular practice.  By the end of next semester, I should have a 40 - 45 minute solo show ready to tour.

2)  I've had the opportunity to meet a large number of very interesting and accomplished guest artists, both through Towson and through attending the NET conference in NYC.  The guest artists this fall have included Richard Armstrong, Joan Lipkin, and Wendell Beavers.  At the NET conference I had the privalege of taking a workshop with the interactive ensemble theatre company, Dog and Pony DC.

3)  I have opportunities to teach workshops here.  I was the puppetry coach for Towson University's devised performance 13 Clowns. This show is directed by Tom Casiero. I've been ablt to pitch workshops and show ideas to Single Carrot Theatre in Baltimore.

4)  I'm still teaching public speaking, and having a wonderful time doing it.  The standard college schedule has taken me a moment to readjust to, but it's much more relaxed than my last school.  

 

All in all, I'm being challenged.  I'm learning new approaches to developing work.  I'm meeting many new people.  

 

Life is good.