Teaching
I believe the role of the theatre teacher is to empower students to be brave, creative, and critical. Not all students will commit to a professional life in the theatre, but all students can benefit from the lessons in empathy, reflection, problem-solving, critical thinking, and self-confidence that are important to success in life.
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For my full Teaching Philosophy, check out my About page!
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K-12 Classes and Camps
When it comes to youth classes, I believe the key is to inspire creativity and promote confidence. I have taught kids with a wide range of ability and experience. It is important to never underestimate what they are capable of and always be ready to provide the next challenge. I also work to ensure that the lessons are accessible to all students and make adjustments to clarify and/or simplify as needed.
Topics taught include:
Shakespeare and Heightened Language
Voice and Speech (breath, projection, diction, dialects)
Movement (elements, animals, commedia, Butoh)
Directing
Acting for the Dancer
Auditioning
Undergraduate Courses
For undergraduate students, I encourage critical thinking, problem solving, and creativity by assigning practical projects. The goal is for assignments to be applicable to work they will be doing in the future as professional theatre artists. Encouragement is key to developing strong, capable, and confident artists, so I teach from a place of positivity while providing challenges to meet the students' needs.
Topics and courses taught include:
Directing
Global Acting Methods
Intermediate Acting
Acting for Nonmajors
Black American Theatre
Theatre Appreciation
Speech for the Actor
Advanced Voice (teaching assistant)
Movement for the Performer (guest instructor)
Check out my article on body neutrality for performers!
Adult and Community Classes
I am very excited by theatre education in applied settings. I have taught acting classes for adult stroke survivors to help develop confidence and strength of speech. I have also stage managed for an educational theatre group that works primarily with young adults with Autism. I believe theatre can and should be used to empower people, especially those who have physical, psychological, or social disadvantages.
Topics and courses taught include:
Voice and Speech
Movement
Heightened Language
Check out this video about the StAR Summer Program for people with aphasia!
