After teaching theatre for over 37 years, I retired as of August 1, 2020. It was a wonderful ride and is full of such good memories. What I would like to do is to convert this blog that originally was a diary of all my class doings - and make it now a daily reflection on what it is like to be retired and some of the highlights that have stayed with me from the theatre classroom. I hope you enjoy!
In the Directing class we were talking about the arduous process of auditioning a show and holding callbacks. I love to see all of the “ah-ha” moments that everyone has when they experience the process from the other side of the casting table.
As an actor, you think that you are NEVER getting a full opportunity when they only let you read for a page or so – – BUT when you are on the other side you realize that a yes/no decision can really be made in just a few sentences. Read more
It happened a bit earlier this year. It usually happens as the holidays approach – but this year it happened early.
I am always advocating the value of theatre no matter what path you decide to take in college or what career you plan to pursue after college. I cannot imagine one profession that would not benefit from the self-esteem, confidence, creativity and simple awareness that comes from the study of theatre. Theatre is for everyone – and theatre education is clearly of value to everyone. However, working at an arts school, I am also focused on moving forward students who ARE setting their sites on pursuing theatre in college and perhaps even beyond college. – SO – Read more
Today in Company we were still working through the Authentic Self Projects. The goal was for the student to find some means of sharing “who they are when they are alone” with the group. Everyone has tried the verbal, the clever, the logical and the informative – – all good – but all a bit safe and calculated. Read more
Our theatre department needs a bit of help. As our numbers continue to grow, we have lost some of that team-spirit that once kept us together and supporting the efforts of others. Back in the day, we were there to mend and to tend to each other. We watched out for each other. Student leaders were in place to keep us on track. Last year, however, we veered off path and we were not there for each other. Read more
Today in Company all were asked to share their “Authentic Self” in ANY way – – in ANY format they chose. No constraints were put on the exercise. The class showed remarkable integrity as they ventured some place quite unknown. I loved the variety and the passion they brought forth. They change the dynamics of the space. They moved the audience into various configurations. The played with aesthetic distance. Read more