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Tuesday, January 21
 

7:30am CST

MTI Selector Meeting
Tuesday January 21, 2025 7:30am - 8:00am CST
Marriott Salon C (2nd Floor)
Meeting for Selectors of MTI Prelims (Closed Session)
Festival Leadership
avatar for Allison Holmes-Bendixen

Allison Holmes-Bendixen

MTI Singing Associate Coordinator, Kirkwood Community College
Allison Holmes-Bendixen (she/her) is an artist, educator, musical theatre lover, opera enthusiast, and self-described vocal pedagogy nerd. She is a member of the faculty at Kirkwood Community College in Cedar Rapids, IA; where she teaches a variety of music and theatre courses.An... Read More →
avatar for Emily Wirkus

Emily Wirkus

MTI Coordinator, University of North Dakota
Tuesday January 21, 2025 7:30am - 8:00am CST
Marriott Salon C (2nd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Orientation/Meeting, MTI

8:00am CST

Special Event: The Genius of Being Stupid Load In/Tech
Tuesday January 21, 2025 8:00am - 11:30am CST
Temple Theater
Tuesday January 21, 2025 8:00am - 11:30am CST
Temple Theater 1011 Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Orientation/Meeting, Special Event

8:00am CST

MTI Dance Auditions
Tuesday January 21, 2025 8:00am - 12:00pm CST
Renaissance Savery I & II
Auditions for Musical Theatre Intensive Dance
Guest Artists
avatar for Josh Walden

Josh Walden

Open Jar Institute
JOSH WALDEN (they/them) was the Associate Director/Associate Choreographer for the Tony Nominated Broadway Revival of Ragtime and was a choreographer for Disney+’s Encore(S1, E12). Director/Choreographer credits include Camelot (The Cape Playhouse), Smokey Joe's Cafe (Fulton Theatre... Read More →
Festival Leadership
avatar for Sheldon Mba

Sheldon Mba

MTI Dance Assoc. Coord, Wichita State University
avatar for Emily Wirkus

Emily Wirkus

MTI Coordinator, University of North Dakota
Tuesday January 21, 2025 8:00am - 12:00pm CST
Renaissance Savery I & II 401 Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Festival Events, MTI Dance

8:00am CST

Sensory Space
Tuesday January 21, 2025 8:00am - 5:00pm CST
Marriott Windows Room (1st Floor)
The Sensory Space offers a peaceful environment to recover from overstimulation. It features comfortable seating, ambient music, and subdued lighting.
Festival Leadership
avatar for Laura Chaney

Laura Chaney

RED Vice Chair, Cottey College
Laura Chaney serves as the Vice Chair of RED and is a theatre generalist at Cottey College. She earned her Master of Fine Arts degree from Tulane University in New Orleans, Louisiana. At Cottey, Laura works as a director, designer, and technical director, and she is currently the... Read More →
avatar for Marc Vital

Marc Vital

RED Chair, University of Missouri
Tuesday January 21, 2025 8:00am - 5:00pm CST
Marriott Windows Room (1st Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA

8:00am CST

MTI Singing Prelims (Salon A)
Tuesday January 21, 2025 8:00am - 5:00pm CST
Marriott Salon A (2nd Floor)
Audition sessions are open to viewers as space permits. You may only enter the room at the top of the hour and must stay through the entire hour-long session.
Festival Leadership
avatar for Allison Holmes-Bendixen

Allison Holmes-Bendixen

MTI Singing Associate Coordinator, Kirkwood Community College
Allison Holmes-Bendixen (she/her) is an artist, educator, musical theatre lover, opera enthusiast, and self-described vocal pedagogy nerd. She is a member of the faculty at Kirkwood Community College in Cedar Rapids, IA; where she teaches a variety of music and theatre courses.An... Read More →
avatar for Emily Wirkus

Emily Wirkus

MTI Coordinator, University of North Dakota
Tuesday January 21, 2025 8:00am - 5:00pm CST
Marriott Salon A (2nd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Festival Events, MTI

8:00am CST

MTI Singing Prelims (Salon D)
Tuesday January 21, 2025 8:00am - 5:00pm CST
Marriott Salon D (2nd Floor)
Audition sessions are open to viewers as space permits. You may only enter the room at the top of the hour and must stay through the entire hour-long session.
Festival Leadership
avatar for Allison Holmes-Bendixen

Allison Holmes-Bendixen

MTI Singing Associate Coordinator, Kirkwood Community College
Allison Holmes-Bendixen (she/her) is an artist, educator, musical theatre lover, opera enthusiast, and self-described vocal pedagogy nerd. She is a member of the faculty at Kirkwood Community College in Cedar Rapids, IA; where she teaches a variety of music and theatre courses.An... Read More →
avatar for Emily Wirkus

Emily Wirkus

MTI Coordinator, University of North Dakota
Tuesday January 21, 2025 8:00am - 5:00pm CST
Marriott Salon D (2nd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Festival Events, MTI

8:00am CST

MTI Headquarters
Tuesday January 21, 2025 8:00am - 5:00pm CST
Marriott Salon C (2nd Floor)
Headquarters for MTI Leadership
Festival Leadership
avatar for Allison Holmes-Bendixen

Allison Holmes-Bendixen

MTI Singing Associate Coordinator, Kirkwood Community College
Allison Holmes-Bendixen (she/her) is an artist, educator, musical theatre lover, opera enthusiast, and self-described vocal pedagogy nerd. She is a member of the faculty at Kirkwood Community College in Cedar Rapids, IA; where she teaches a variety of music and theatre courses.An... Read More →
avatar for Sheldon Mba

Sheldon Mba

MTI Dance Assoc. Coord, Wichita State University
avatar for Emily Wirkus

Emily Wirkus

MTI Coordinator, University of North Dakota
Tuesday January 21, 2025 8:00am - 5:00pm CST
Marriott Salon C (2nd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Orientation/Meeting, MTI

8:00am CST

MTI Singing Prelim Responses (Salon A Group)
Tuesday January 21, 2025 8:00am - 5:00pm CST
Marriott Salon F (2nd Floor)
Responses for MTI Prelims - immediately following prelim performance. Participants Only.
Festival Leadership
avatar for Allison Holmes-Bendixen

Allison Holmes-Bendixen

MTI Singing Associate Coordinator, Kirkwood Community College
Allison Holmes-Bendixen (she/her) is an artist, educator, musical theatre lover, opera enthusiast, and self-described vocal pedagogy nerd. She is a member of the faculty at Kirkwood Community College in Cedar Rapids, IA; where she teaches a variety of music and theatre courses.An... Read More →
avatar for Emily Wirkus

Emily Wirkus

MTI Coordinator, University of North Dakota
Tuesday January 21, 2025 8:00am - 5:00pm CST
Marriott Salon F (2nd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Response, MTI

8:00am CST

MTI Singing Prelim Responses (Salon D Group)
Tuesday January 21, 2025 8:00am - 6:00pm CST
Marriott Salon H (2nd Floor)
Responses for MTI Prelims - immediately following prelim performance. Participants Only.
Festival Leadership
avatar for Allison Holmes-Bendixen

Allison Holmes-Bendixen

MTI Singing Associate Coordinator, Kirkwood Community College
Allison Holmes-Bendixen (she/her) is an artist, educator, musical theatre lover, opera enthusiast, and self-described vocal pedagogy nerd. She is a member of the faculty at Kirkwood Community College in Cedar Rapids, IA; where she teaches a variety of music and theatre courses.An... Read More →
avatar for Emily Wirkus

Emily Wirkus

MTI Coordinator, University of North Dakota
Tuesday January 21, 2025 8:00am - 6:00pm CST
Marriott Salon H (2nd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Response, MTI

8:00am CST

Invited Production: Fuddy Meers Load In
Tuesday January 21, 2025 8:00am - 7:00pm CST
Hoyt Sherman Place
Presenters
avatar for George Grubb

George Grubb

Technical Director/Sound Designer/Chair, Minnesota State U Mankato
Things I like: knot tying, teaching, building stuff, creating soundscapes, the outdoors, automation, rigging, drafting, cooking, eating, sleeping, being neurodivergent.
avatar for Natalie Hining

Natalie Hining

Stage Crew Olympics Coord, Simpson College
Festival Leadership
avatar for Noah J. Files

Noah J. Files

DTM Vice Chair, Drake University
Originally from northwest ND, Noah J. Files has worked in the theatre on both coasts and throughout the Midwest. He earned his MFA in Scenic Design from Minnesota State University, Mankato and a BA in Theatre Arts from Minot State University in Minot, ND. A former Region V student... Read More →
Tuesday January 21, 2025 8:00am - 7:00pm CST
Hoyt Sherman Place 1501 Woodland Ave, Des Moines, IA 50314, USA
  Orientation/Meeting, Invited Production

8:30am CST

DTM Design Expo Opening Breakfast
Tuesday January 21, 2025 8:30am - 9:30am CST
Marriott Des Moines Exhibits Hall (3rd Floor)
Opening Breakfast for Design Expo - all are welcome
Festival Leadership
avatar for Noah J. Files

Noah J. Files

DTM Vice Chair, Drake University
Originally from northwest ND, Noah J. Files has worked in the theatre on both coasts and throughout the Midwest. He earned his MFA in Scenic Design from Minnesota State University, Mankato and a BA in Theatre Arts from Minot State University in Minot, ND. A former Region V student... Read More →
avatar for Emily Ganfield

Emily Ganfield

DTM Chair, Coe College
avatar for Kate Kanne

Kate Kanne

EXPO Coord, Central College
avatar for AP Pikiben

AP Pikiben

Cost. Parade Coordinator, Truman State University
AP is a professor at Truman State University. This is their second year as the Co-Coordinator for the Expo and first year as Costume Parade Coordinator. AP is excited for another year at their favorite festival!
Tuesday January 21, 2025 8:30am - 9:30am CST
Marriott Des Moines Exhibits Hall (3rd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Festival Events, Expo

8:30am CST

DTM Design Expo
Tuesday January 21, 2025 8:30am - 5:00pm CST
Marriott Des Moines Exhibits Hall (3rd Floor)
Open to the Public
Festival Leadership
avatar for Noah J. Files

Noah J. Files

DTM Vice Chair, Drake University
Originally from northwest ND, Noah J. Files has worked in the theatre on both coasts and throughout the Midwest. He earned his MFA in Scenic Design from Minnesota State University, Mankato and a BA in Theatre Arts from Minot State University in Minot, ND. A former Region V student... Read More →
avatar for Emily Ganfield

Emily Ganfield

DTM Chair, Coe College
avatar for Kate Kanne

Kate Kanne

EXPO Coord, Central College
avatar for AP Pikiben

AP Pikiben

Cost. Parade Coordinator, Truman State University
AP is a professor at Truman State University. This is their second year as the Co-Coordinator for the Expo and first year as Costume Parade Coordinator. AP is excited for another year at their favorite festival!
Tuesday January 21, 2025 8:30am - 5:00pm CST
Marriott Des Moines Exhibits Hall (3rd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Festival Events, Expo

9:00am CST

SDC Respondents Meeting
Tuesday January 21, 2025 9:00am - 9:30am CST
Marriott Sioux City (3rd Floor)
SDC Respondent Meeting and Orientation (Closed Session)
Guest Artists
avatar for Chuma Gault

Chuma Gault

Freelance Artist
Chuma is an actor, producer and director. He is ad for FAT HAM by James Ijams (Dezart Performs); directed “ROBBIN, from the HOOD”, by Marlow Wyatt (Road Theatre). Chuma is directing in residency with two plays at the L.A. LGBTQ Center with playwrights Tony Abatemarco (The LOST... Read More →
avatar for Kelsey Mesa

Kelsey Mesa

Managing KCACTF and Theatre Education, Kennedy Center
Kelsey Mesa's (she/her/hers) directing credits include Crimes of the Heart at Catholic University, Fefu and Her Friends at the University of Maryland, College Park; The Pavilion, The Magi, and Wish List at the Hub Theatre; and Othello, Antigonick, She Rode Horses Like the Stock Exchange... Read More →
Festival Leadership
avatar for Jamie Bullins

Jamie Bullins

SDC Coordinator, U of Nebraska Lincoln
avatar for Sarah Belfrage Honerman

Sarah Belfrage Honerman

Directing Assoc. Coord, Minot State University
Sarah Belfrage-Honerman is the Director of Theatre at Minot State University. Belfrage-Honerman grew up in the Midwest, originally from Sioux Falls, SD.Belfrage-Honerman is a veteran educator, with over a decade of experience in the classroom and working in the theatre. She has built... Read More →
Tuesday January 21, 2025 9:00am - 9:30am CST
Marriott Sioux City (3rd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Orientation/Meeting, SDC

9:00am CST

DTM Expo Projection Responses
Tuesday January 21, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am CST
Marriott Des Moines Exhibits Hall (3rd Floor)
Guest Artists
avatar for G Clausen

G Clausen

Sound Designer/Composer
Theatre credits include: Peter Panto (People’s Light); Syncing Ink (Apollo Theater); I Am Deliverd’t (Co-Pro Dallas Theater Center and Actors Theatre of Louisville); Twisted Melodies (St. Louis Repertory); Crumbs From the Table of Joy, How I Learned What I Learned, Native Son... Read More →
avatar for Kristen Olinger

Kristen Olinger

ICON Iowa Conservatory
Kristen Olinger is the Director of Design and Production at ICON Iowa Conservatory in Iowa City. Her local work includes Projection and Lighting Design for Cornell College, Theatre Cedar Rapids, Revival Theatre Company, Cedar Rapids Opera Theatre, Riverside Theatre, Crooked Path and... Read More →
Tuesday January 21, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am CST
Marriott Des Moines Exhibits Hall (3rd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Response, DTM Expo

9:00am CST

10 Minute Play Rehearsals
Tuesday January 21, 2025 9:00am - 12:00pm CST
Marriott Salon B (2nd Floor)
Rehearsals for 10 Minute Plays. Participants must have access to the event, but others may observe. If observing please be respectful of the work. 
Festival Leadership
avatar for Cat Gleason

Cat Gleason

NPP Co-Vice Chair, Truman State University
Cat Gleason teaches acting, directing, and stage movement, as well as theatre history and criticism. An award-winning teacher, she has received the Road Warrior and Innovative Teaching honors from The Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival KCACTF5 as well as being honored... Read More →
avatar for Laura Gold

Laura Gold

NPP Co-Vice Chair, Peru State College
Laura Gold (she/her) is the Associate Professor of Theatre at Peru State College. Recent Peru Theatre Company directing credits include Orphans, Love Song, Proof, and Everybody. She is especially proud of PTC's annual production The Disco Citizens—30 plays in 60 minutes, or your... Read More →
avatar for Aaron Scully

Aaron Scully

NPP Chair, U of Central Missouri
Aaron Scully, PhD is an Assistant Professor of Theatre at the University of Central Missouri. His plays have been produced around the country including Atlanta, Des Moines, Washington D.C., Seattle and Pittsburgh, PA. Most recently a production of his play "The Disappointments" toured... Read More →
Tuesday January 21, 2025 9:00am - 12:00pm CST
Marriott Salon B (2nd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Festival Events, 10 Minute Plays

9:00am CST

10 Minute Play Rehearsals
Tuesday January 21, 2025 9:00am - 12:00pm CST
Marriott Salon G (2nd Floor)
Rehearsals for 10 Minute Plays. Participants must have access to the event, but others may observe. If observing please be respectful of the work. 
Festival Leadership
avatar for Cat Gleason

Cat Gleason

NPP Co-Vice Chair, Truman State University
Cat Gleason teaches acting, directing, and stage movement, as well as theatre history and criticism. An award-winning teacher, she has received the Road Warrior and Innovative Teaching honors from The Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival KCACTF5 as well as being honored... Read More →
avatar for Laura Gold

Laura Gold

NPP Co-Vice Chair, Peru State College
Laura Gold (she/her) is the Associate Professor of Theatre at Peru State College. Recent Peru Theatre Company directing credits include Orphans, Love Song, Proof, and Everybody. She is especially proud of PTC's annual production The Disco Citizens—30 plays in 60 minutes, or your... Read More →
avatar for Aaron Scully

Aaron Scully

NPP Chair, U of Central Missouri
Aaron Scully, PhD is an Assistant Professor of Theatre at the University of Central Missouri. His plays have been produced around the country including Atlanta, Des Moines, Washington D.C., Seattle and Pittsburgh, PA. Most recently a production of his play "The Disappointments" toured... Read More →
Tuesday January 21, 2025 9:00am - 12:00pm CST
Marriott Salon G (2nd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Festival Events, 10 Minute Plays

9:00am CST

Stage Management Review Books
Tuesday January 21, 2025 9:00am - 12:00pm CST
Marriott Exhibit Hall North (3rd Floor)
Closed Session
Guest Artists
avatar for Rachael C. Rhoades

Rachael C. Rhoades

Pillsbury House + Theatre
Rachael C. Rhoades is a professional stage and production manager, based in the Twin Cities. In the span of her 20+ year career, she has had the opportunity to work with everyone from artists beginning their career to Tony Award winning performers, and has taught stage management... Read More →
avatar for Tracy Armagost

Tracy Armagost

Production and Recruiting Coordinator, Sante Fe Opera
Tracy Armagost is beginning her 38th Season with the Santa Fe Opera.Tracy’s first position with the Santa Fe Opera was as a Properties Carpenter Apprentice. Over the years, she has also worked as part of the Properties Run Crew, Development Office, and the Housing Office to name... Read More →
Festival Leadership
avatar for Noah J. Files

Noah J. Files

DTM Vice Chair, Drake University
Originally from northwest ND, Noah J. Files has worked in the theatre on both coasts and throughout the Midwest. He earned his MFA in Scenic Design from Minnesota State University, Mankato and a BA in Theatre Arts from Minot State University in Minot, ND. A former Region V student... Read More →
avatar for Emily Ganfield

Emily Ganfield

DTM Chair, Coe College
avatar for Patrick Reading

Patrick Reading

Stage Management Coordinator, University of North Dakota
Patrick is currently the Technical Director and a Teaching Assistant Professor for the University of North Dakota Department of Theatre Arts. In addition to UND’s Technical Direction, he is the resident Sound Designer, supervisor of Stage Management and Properties and proudly acts... Read More →
Tuesday January 21, 2025 9:00am - 12:00pm CST
Marriott Exhibit Hall North (3rd Floor)
  Orientation/Meeting, Stage Management

9:00am CST

Information & Registration
Tuesday January 21, 2025 9:00am - 4:00pm CST
Marriott Coat Check (3rd Floor)
Festival Leadership
JW

Jonathan Wehmeyer

Associate Registrar, Truman State University
avatar for Jim Wood

Jim Wood

KCACTF National Committee Member at Large, South Dakota State University
Jim Wood currently serves on the KCACTF National Executive Committee as Member-at-Large. He also serves Region 5 as the Registrar and is a former Regional Chair. Jim is a Professor and the Artistic Director of Theatre & Dance at South Dakota State University. An actor, director, designer... Read More →
Tuesday January 21, 2025 9:00am - 4:00pm CST
Marriott Coat Check (3rd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Orientation/Meeting, Information & Registration

9:00am CST

Coats for Loan
Tuesday January 21, 2025 9:00am - 5:00pm CST
Marriott Des Moines Exhibits Hall (3rd Floor)
Operation Warmth is brought to you be the RED committee. We want to “Coat you in Warmth”. Coats may be checked out for the week on an honor system. You can come by the DTM Expo area and sign out a coat if you need one. Coats are available in L and 2 XL in order to accommodate as many bodies as possible.
Festival Leadership
avatar for Laura Chaney

Laura Chaney

RED Vice Chair, Cottey College
Laura Chaney serves as the Vice Chair of RED and is a theatre generalist at Cottey College. She earned her Master of Fine Arts degree from Tulane University in New Orleans, Louisiana. At Cottey, Laura works as a director, designer, and technical director, and she is currently the... Read More →
avatar for Marc Vital

Marc Vital

RED Chair, University of Missouri
Tuesday January 21, 2025 9:00am - 5:00pm CST
Marriott Des Moines Exhibits Hall (3rd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA

9:30am CST

ITJA Session 2
Tuesday January 21, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am CST
Marriott Dubuque (3rd Floor)
Participants must have access to the event, but others may observe. If observing please be respectful of the work. 

Guest Artists
avatar for Michael Morain

Michael Morain

dsm magazine
Michael Morain is the editor-in-chief of dsm magazine, which covers arts and culture in Des Moines. He reviewed theater for a decade for the Des Moines Register, co-founded the Cloris Awards for local theater, and is a two-time fellow of the National Endowment for the Arts Institute... Read More →
Festival Leadership
avatar for Susan Hansen

Susan Hansen

ITJA Coordinator, Riverland Community College
Tuesday January 21, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am CST
Marriott Dubuque (3rd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Festival Events, ITJA

9:30am CST

Acting Through Musical Song
Tuesday January 21, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am CST
Marriott Salon E (2nd Floor)
Program Representative and Teaching Artist, Rachel Kelsey, draws upon her professional performance experience to bring you this workshop on acting through musical song. The intention of this session is to assist performers in improving their understanding of musical theatre acting. Here we will work on crafting strong, professional, and creative choices when acting through musical text. Actors should have a 32 bar cut or full song prepared to workshop in this setting, in which Rachel will workshop with the student and provide feedback. We will create tactics, analyze the subtext & tone, clarify objective, and apply/utilize particularizations. The session is taught from the lens and personal experience of Rachel Kelsey as both an instructor and performer. The workshop is open to actors at all levels in their educational career. We are thrilled to bring KCACTF a taste!
Presenters
avatar for Rachel Kelsey

Rachel Kelsey

NTI Program Representative and Admissions Manager, National Theatre Institute
I understand and acknowledge that I teach these workshops through the lens of my own background, culture, and experience. It is neither my goal nor my desire to foist my lens upon students, but to facilitate an understanding and skill set when approaching these works that enhances... Read More →
Tuesday January 21, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am CST
Marriott Salon E (2nd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

9:30am CST

Fairytale Design Workshop: Reimagining Stories Through Technical Theatre Session 1
Tuesday January 21, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am CST
Renaissance Savery Roosevelt
The fairytale design workshop is a three-day intensive workshop focused on collaboration and innovative theatrical designs. Each team member specializes in one technical theatre role: props, costumes, lighting, or scenic design, creating a high-concept design for classic fairytales. The final session will be presentations with guest judges and awards.
Presenters
avatar for Tetta Askeland

Tetta Askeland

Southwest Minnesota State U
Tetta M. Askeland is a scenic designer and educator currently based in Minnesota. She received her undergraduate degree from Northwestern College and received her MFA in Scenic Design and Technology from Kent State University. In addition to freelance work, Askeland teaches theatrical... Read More →
avatar for AP Pikiben

AP Pikiben

Cost. Parade Coordinator, Truman State University
AP is a professor at Truman State University. This is their second year as the Co-Coordinator for the Expo and first year as Costume Parade Coordinator. AP is excited for another year at their favorite festival!
avatar for Alex Pikiben

Alex Pikiben

Aspire Coord, Truman State University
Alex is a Lecturer of Theatre in Lights/Sound from Truman State University. He is also a freelance Light/Sound Designer from Minneapolis, MN. His past credits include Hair at Premiere Playhouse, Ride the Cyclone at Truman State, and Audio mixer at the True/False Festival. He loves... Read More →
Tuesday January 21, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am CST
Renaissance Savery Roosevelt 401 Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

9:30am CST

From the Beginning
Tuesday January 21, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am CST
Renaissance Savery Capitol
This workshop is for anyone interested in what it means to begin. In our time together, we will explore what it means to conceive of a creative project, how we can get past our inner critic to create from a space of curiosity, and offer observations on the work of our peers to foster ideas rather than critique them. This workshop will combine writing, performance, and directing as well as leave space for engagement with the work presented.
Presenters
avatar for Cara Phipps

Cara Phipps

Irene Ryan Coordinator, Graceland University
Cara is a queer director, educator, and writer based in Saint Paul, MN and Lamoni, IA. She recently directed the world premiere musical, THROUGH THE SUNKEN LANDS, by Avi Amon and Tim J. Lord for the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Cara's national work includes credits with... Read More →
Tuesday January 21, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am CST
Renaissance Savery Capitol 401 Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

9:30am CST

Driving the Action: Active Analysis for Creative Artists
Tuesday January 21, 2025 9:30am - 12:00pm CST
Marriott Council Bluffs/Davenport (3rd Floor)
Stanislavsky’s latter practice known today as Active Analysis is a powerful tool for quickly integrating the givens of a script into an actor’s body. Learning the tool can be anxiety-inducing for beginning actors as they don’t have the script in hand as a crutch. This workshop introduces the concepts of action & counteraction as the driving force of a scene. Then we'll explore the scaffolding techniques I’ve developed to prop the students up while they explore the freedoms that Active Analysis offers, curtailing anxiety and streamlining the embodiment of the role.
Presenters
avatar for Joelle Arp Dunham

Joelle Arp Dunham

Kansas State University
Joelle Ré Arp-Dunham, PhD, MFA, (she/her) is an educator, director, actor, consent and staged intimacy consultant and choreographer, currently teaching at Kansas State University. She served as the Producing Artistic Director of the Circle Ensemble Theatre Company in Athens, Georgia... Read More →
Tuesday January 21, 2025 9:30am - 12:00pm CST
Marriott Council Bluffs/Davenport (3rd Floor)
  Workshops

9:30am CST

DTM Expo Costume Design Response
Tuesday January 21, 2025 9:30am - 5:00pm CST
Marriott Des Moines Exhibits Hall (3rd Floor)
Guest Artists
avatar for Misti Bradford

Misti Bradford

DTM Co-Vice Chair, NTL DTM Chair/U of WI Parkside
Costume Designer and EducatorKennedy Center American College Theatre Festival- National Chair of Design, Technology, and ManagementMisti is a professional costume designer, proud member of USA, Local 829, Department Chair, and Professor at the University of Wisconsin Parkside.Some... Read More →
avatar for Shana Joslyn

Shana Joslyn

McDaniel College
Shana Joslyn is an assistant professor of theatre design and technology at McDaniel College. She has been designing scenery, lighting, props, sound, and video for over 25 years. Along with theatre, she has designed opera, dance, and bands such as Eddie Money, Anthrax, Mary Wilson... Read More →
Tuesday January 21, 2025 9:30am - 5:00pm CST
Marriott Des Moines Exhibits Hall (3rd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Response, DTM Expo

9:30am CST

DTM Expo Sound Response
Tuesday January 21, 2025 9:30am - 5:00pm CST
Marriott Des Moines Exhibits Hall (3rd Floor)
Guest Artists
avatar for G Clausen

G Clausen

Sound Designer/Composer
Theatre credits include: Peter Panto (People’s Light); Syncing Ink (Apollo Theater); I Am Deliverd’t (Co-Pro Dallas Theater Center and Actors Theatre of Louisville); Twisted Melodies (St. Louis Repertory); Crumbs From the Table of Joy, How I Learned What I Learned, Native Son... Read More →
avatar for Jay Jagim

Jay Jagim

Freelance Production Designer
Jay Michael Jagim is a scenic and lighting designer based in Des Moines, Iowa. He holds a B.A. from the University of Northern Iowa and an M.F.A. from the University of Connecticut. His professional credits include resident scenic designer at the Alley Theatre in Houston; head of... Read More →
Tuesday January 21, 2025 9:30am - 5:00pm CST
Marriott Des Moines Exhibits Hall (3rd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Response, DTM Expo

9:45am CST

SDC Preliminary Round
Tuesday January 21, 2025 9:45am - 11:15am CST
Marriott Sioux City (3rd Floor)
Guest Artists
avatar for Chuma Gault

Chuma Gault

Freelance Artist
Chuma is an actor, producer and director. He is ad for FAT HAM by James Ijams (Dezart Performs); directed “ROBBIN, from the HOOD”, by Marlow Wyatt (Road Theatre). Chuma is directing in residency with two plays at the L.A. LGBTQ Center with playwrights Tony Abatemarco (The LOST... Read More →
avatar for Kelsey Mesa

Kelsey Mesa

Managing KCACTF and Theatre Education, Kennedy Center
Kelsey Mesa's (she/her/hers) directing credits include Crimes of the Heart at Catholic University, Fefu and Her Friends at the University of Maryland, College Park; The Pavilion, The Magi, and Wish List at the Hub Theatre; and Othello, Antigonick, She Rode Horses Like the Stock Exchange... Read More →
Festival Leadership
avatar for Jamie Bullins

Jamie Bullins

SDC Coordinator, U of Nebraska Lincoln
avatar for Sarah Belfrage Honerman

Sarah Belfrage Honerman

Directing Assoc. Coord, Minot State University
Sarah Belfrage-Honerman is the Director of Theatre at Minot State University. Belfrage-Honerman grew up in the Midwest, originally from Sioux Falls, SD.Belfrage-Honerman is a veteran educator, with over a decade of experience in the classroom and working in the theatre. She has built... Read More →
Tuesday January 21, 2025 9:45am - 11:15am CST
Marriott Sioux City (3rd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Festival Events, SDC

10:00am CST

Invited Production: American Girl(s)
Tuesday January 21, 2025 10:00am - 10:30am CST
Civic Center Stoner Theater
This event has limited capacity. When open add this event to your schedule to reserve your spot. If you no longer will attend please remove it from your schedule to allow those on the waitlist to join.

This event will open Monday, 1/20 at 11:00 pm

American Girl(s) by University of Missouri alumna Abby Uphoff is a KCACTF award-winning one-act play that zooms in on a moment in time at Camp Rainbow Bridge, a grief camp. The story follows MJ, a jaded young woman with existential tendencies who grapples with the loss of her beloved Aunt Kay. MJ is tasked with writing a letter to the object she brought to camp connected to her loss, a Molly American Girl Doll. With disdain for Camp Rainbow Bridge and its festive 4th of July celebration that reminds MJ of the deceptions of the “American Dream,” MJ writes and then throws her letter in the fire. In a seemingly magical turn of events, MJ is subsequently greeted by a real live version of Molly. While deeply skeptical of this “camp exercise” at first, together Molly and MJ grieve, heal, scream, sing, and question what it means to grow up as an American Girl.

Content Disclosure: discussions of grief, addiction, death, death of a family member, familial trauma, medical trauma, financial trauma, and war.

MU Theatre American Girls program pdf
Tuesday January 21, 2025 10:00am - 10:30am CST
Civic Center Stoner Theater 221 Walnut St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Performance, Invited Production

10:00am CST

Directing Intensive
Tuesday January 21, 2025 10:00am - 1:00pm CST
Marriott Waterloo (3rd Floor)
Participants must have access to the event, but others may observe. If observing please be respectful of the work. 

Festival Leadership
avatar for Jamie Bullins

Jamie Bullins

SDC Coordinator, U of Nebraska Lincoln
avatar for Sarah Belfrage Honerman

Sarah Belfrage Honerman

Directing Assoc. Coord, Minot State University
Sarah Belfrage-Honerman is the Director of Theatre at Minot State University. Belfrage-Honerman grew up in the Midwest, originally from Sioux Falls, SD.Belfrage-Honerman is a veteran educator, with over a decade of experience in the classroom and working in the theatre. She has built... Read More →
Tuesday January 21, 2025 10:00am - 1:00pm CST
Marriott Waterloo (3rd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Festival Events, SDC

10:00am CST

Professional Headshots
Tuesday January 21, 2025 10:00am - 6:00pm CST
Sign up for a professional headshot at KCACTF! Jason Crocker's studio is right across the street from the Marriott! Sign up for a 15 minute slot. Each session is $100 due at booking. To book a time and for more details: https://calendly.com/jasontcrocker/region-5-headshot-session?month=2025-01&date=2025-01-21

Studio:
319 7th St Unit 103
Des Moines, IA 50309
515.216.0650
Tuesday January 21, 2025 10:00am - 6:00pm CST
  Festival Events

11:00am CST

"Do it again, with an Irish accent": learning dialects!
Tuesday January 21, 2025 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
Renaissance Savery Truman
Maybe you're preparing for an audition, or you've already got the part, or you've been called back and they said "let's hear it with [fill in the blank] accent next time." Now what? We'll walk through the steps of adopting a dialect -- and the right one for the role -- using a process adaptable to any language/dialect/situation, from "I need it tomorrow" to "I've got months to get it right."
Presenters
avatar for Laurel Koerner

Laurel Koerner

Dordt University
Laurel Alons Koerner (MFA Acting, CalArts; MA Bowling Green State University) is a theatre artist-educator specializing in acting and directing. In addition to teaching, directing, and designing for productions at Dordt University, she coaches professional actors in preparing dialects... Read More →
Tuesday January 21, 2025 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
Renaissance Savery Truman 401 Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

11:00am CST

Don't Make Me Turn this Bus Around: Touring with Students Nationally and Internationally
Tuesday January 21, 2025 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
Marriott Cedar Rapids (3rd Floor)
Setting up a tour for your undergrads, whether for local performances and recruiting or a short-term study abroad experience, can be a daunting task. Learn the basics about timelines, cold calling, booking venues, utilizing tour operators, travel insurance, payment plans for study abroad, emotional wellness on tour, and lots of other tips and hints.
Presenters
avatar for Patrick Newell

Patrick Newell

Western Nebraska CC
Dr. Patrick Newell is a vocal instructor, music director, stage director, choral conductor, and performer. A teacher of Opera, Musical Theatre, and Art Song, his students perform with Disney, Off-Broadway, National Tours, military bands, cruise lines, regional theatres, and amusement... Read More →
Tuesday January 21, 2025 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
Marriott Cedar Rapids (3rd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

11:00am CST

Hits, Bits, and Schticks Oh My!
Tuesday January 21, 2025 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
Marriott Salon E (2nd Floor)
Dramatic fights are easy, but what happens when you are in a comedy with a fight scene? Come learn how to make unarmed stage combat techniques funny while keeping everyone safe at the same time.
Presenters
avatar for Dan Spiropoulos

Dan Spiropoulos

University of South Dakota
Dan Spiropoulos is an Advanced Actor Combatant with The Society of American Fight Directors and an Actor Combatant with the British Academy of Stage and Screen Combat. Dan has also started his own company called Ronin Theatricals LLC which provides fight choreography for shows, stage... Read More →
Tuesday January 21, 2025 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
Marriott Salon E (2nd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

11:00am CST

Unmasking Ourselves through Neutral Mask
Tuesday January 21, 2025 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
Renaissance Savery Iowa Ballroom
This workshop will introduce Neutral Mask techniques and will run the actor through a variety of exercises that will strengthen their stage presence and their physical choices. The neutral mask is an incredibly powerful tool in teaching acting craft, particularly movement and being truly present in and experiencing each moment as an actor. This allows the actor to be more open and let the world around them inform their movement. As Jacques Lecoq, the originator of Neutral Mask training, wrote, “There are three masks: the one we think we are, the one we really are, and the one we have in common.” The goal of this workshop is to give you tools that will help you as an actor remove the masks that you have built up and allow you to find a new truth and vulnerability in your physical performance onstage.
Presenters
avatar for Lindsay Kennedy

Lindsay Kennedy

Benedictine College
Lindsay Kennedy is a playwright, performer, dramaturg, and director. She has been honored nationally for her work as a playwright—her plays, River Like Sin and Rattler were semi-finalists for the O’Neill National Playwrights Conference and her in-development musical Like Cinders... Read More →
Tuesday January 21, 2025 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
Renaissance Savery Iowa Ballroom 401 Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

12:30pm CST

A Guide to the Playwright/Director Relationship
Tuesday January 21, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Marriott Cedar Rapids (3rd Floor)
This workshop will cover best practices in maintaining a positive and collaborative relationship between directors and playwrights. From expectation agreements to rehearsal room behavior, students will discuss what it takes to balance the playwright’s intent with the director’s creative interpretation. Students will go over curated questions that every director and playwright should answer at the beginning of the production development process, check-in tactics, conflict resolution techniques, and creating time lines with clearly defined goals.
Presenters
avatar for Taylor Gruenloh

Taylor Gruenloh

Missouri U of Science & Tech
Tavlor Gruenloh is an Assistant Professor of Theatre at Missouri S&T and was the founding Artistic Director of the Tesseract Theatre Company in St. Louis. His plays have been produced in cities across the country, including St. Louis, New Orleans, Asheville, Roanoke and New York City... Read More →
Tuesday January 21, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Marriott Cedar Rapids (3rd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

12:30pm CST

Creative Dramatics: Fun was had last year let's do it again!
Tuesday January 21, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Marriott Salon E (2nd Floor)
Put on your fun hat and spend some time with other students from the region in this experiential, hands-on romp through a series of creative dramatic exercises and games. Promised to take you places you can only imagine! You'll be on your feet (unless you aren't) moving around (dress comfortably) as you create something out of nothing (well, OK, a short prompt or suggestion). Bring a friend, meet new friends, it's FESTIVAL!!
Presenters
avatar for Andy Henrickson

Andy Henrickson

Mount Marty University
Andy is the Director of Theatre at Mount Marty University in Yankton, SD, a Catholic Benedictine liberal arts institution where hospitality is a core value. Prior to his tenure at MMU, Andy had a short stint directing for the Olde Towne Dinner Theatre (Worthing, SD), and 10 years... Read More →
Tuesday January 21, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Marriott Salon E (2nd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

12:30pm CST

Introduction to ETC Programming
Tuesday January 21, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Marriott Salon G (2nd Floor)
The ETC program can be intimidating when you’re first exposed to it. Come to this workshop and learn the basics of programming on the console. Whether you’re a student designer or a faculty member with an interest in lighting design, this workshop will provide you with the knowledge to put together a cohesive lighting design for your production
Presenters
avatar for Sarah Brown

Sarah Brown

University of South Dakota
Sarah Brown is a First Year MFA Candidate in Lighting and Sound Design at the University of South Dakota.
Tuesday January 21, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Marriott Salon G (2nd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

12:30pm CST

Maintain your Wigs and Facial Hair: The Do's and Don't for our Hairy Friends!
Tuesday January 21, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Renaissance Savery Roosevelt
This is a Beginner to intermediate workshop on maintaining wigs and facial hair for the theatre. This will teach the basic techniques of care, upkeep, styling, and storing all sorts of hair pieces. We will go from the beginning of a wig's life, through design, to production, and finally strike with care techniques and ideas for storage. This is a lecture and discussion-based workshop so please bring any ideas, notebooks, and questions you may have!
Presenters
avatar for Kylie McDonald

Kylie McDonald

University of North Dakota
Kylie McDonald is currently a Teaching Assistant Professor in the Theatre Arts Department and Costume Shop Manager at the Burtness Theatre. She holds an MFA in Costume Design with a secondary in Lighting Design. Her areas of discipline include costume design, patterning, draping... Read More →
Tuesday January 21, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Renaissance Savery Roosevelt 401 Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

12:30pm CST

The International Phonetic Alphabet: Your Gateway to Pronunciation and Dialect Work
Tuesday January 21, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Marriott Dubuque (3rd Floor)
This workshop will serve as an introduction to the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). Participants will learn the basic IPA symbols most useful to a performer. These will then be applied to both a Standard American Dialect and a Standard English Dialect.
Presenters
avatar for Matthew Caron

Matthew Caron

Invited Scenes Assoc Coord, Minnesota State U Mankato
Matthew Caron serves as Managing Director of the Theatre Department at Minnesota State University, Mankato. In addition to teaching courses in theatre speech, dialects, management, history and directing, he directs productions for the department as well. Prior to his current position... Read More →
Tuesday January 21, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Marriott Dubuque (3rd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

12:30pm CST

What's Your Status
Tuesday January 21, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Renaissance Savery Capitol
In a production, the status you are given is not always what is earned. As actors, it is imperative to begin with an analysis of character. Who are you? Who is above you? Who is below you? What does that mean in terms of your relationships with the characters around you? This workshop is designed to understand what we mean when we talk about status, how to both demonstrate and observe it, and how to put that into practice onstage through a series of interactive exercises and active observation.
Presenters
avatar for Cara Phipps

Cara Phipps

Irene Ryan Coordinator, Graceland University
Cara is a queer director, educator, and writer based in Saint Paul, MN and Lamoni, IA. She recently directed the world premiere musical, THROUGH THE SUNKEN LANDS, by Avi Amon and Tim J. Lord for the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Cara's national work includes credits with... Read More →
Tuesday January 21, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Renaissance Savery Capitol 401 Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

12:30pm CST

“Dancing Through Life” Tap Dance (Beginning/Intermediate)
Tuesday January 21, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Renaissance Savery I & II
Bring your tap shoes! This workshop is ideal for the student with a basic level of comfort with tap steps and vocabulary. Following a warm up and some technique practice, we will learn a combination to “Dancing Through Life” from “Wicked”.
Presenters
avatar for Emily Ehling

Emily Ehling

University of Missouri
Emily Duggins Ehling (she/her) is Assistant Teaching Professor of Stage Movement and Dance at the University of Missouri. She draws from Horton, Release Technique, Laban, somatics, and improvisation to encourage grounded, expansive, curious movement. Her research explores the intersection... Read More →
Tuesday January 21, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Renaissance Savery I & II 401 Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

12:30pm CST

Mastering the Art of Film and TV Auditioning
Tuesday January 21, 2025 12:30pm - 3:00pm CST
Marriott Salon B (2nd Floor)
Elevate your audition game with this hands-on workshop designed to help actors excel in film and TV auditions. Participants will work with real sides from actual productions, learning techniques to deliver memorable performances that make a lasting impression. This workshop will focus on essential skills such as breaking down sides, understanding character motivation, adapting to direction, and creating authentic, engaging auditions that stand out. Whether you're a seasoned actor or just starting your journey, this experience will provide the tools and confidence to shine in front of casting directors.
Presenters
avatar for Darrell Bailey

Darrell Bailey

University of Missouri
Darrell Bailey is a Stage and Film Actor, Artist, Director, and Instructor from Kansas City, Missouri. He trained in Los Angeles at the New York Film Academy to obtain his Master of Fine Arts in Acting for Film.
Tuesday January 21, 2025 12:30pm - 3:00pm CST
Marriott Salon B (2nd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

12:30pm CST

Principles of Greek Tragedy
Tuesday January 21, 2025 12:30pm - 3:00pm CST
Marriott Council Bluffs/Davenport (3rd Floor)
This interactive workshop explores the basic principles of Greek tragic performance that make it challenging for modern actors and directors. Participants will be led through exercises that develop skills necessary for approaching the content and form of Greek Tragedy with a focus on vocal presence, expressive gesture, spatial relationship, and the function of Chorus. Participants will be asked to come prepared with a memorized text.
Presenters
avatar for Nathan Bowman

Nathan Bowman

Assistant Professor, Chair/ Producing Artistic Director, Benedictine/KC Public Theatre
Nathan Bowman is Chair of the Department of Theatre and Dance at Benedictine College and the Producing Artistic Director of Kansas City Public Theatre. He is the Vice-President of Mid-America Theatre Conference where he previously served as Co-Chair of Playwriting and he is the Book... Read More →
Tuesday January 21, 2025 12:30pm - 3:00pm CST
Marriott Council Bluffs/Davenport (3rd Floor)
  Workshops

1:00pm CST

Invited Production: American Girl(s)
Tuesday January 21, 2025 1:00pm - 1:30pm CST
Civic Center Stoner Theater
This event has limited capacity. When open add this event to your schedule to reserve your spot. If you no longer will attend please remove it from your schedule to allow those on the waitlist to join.

This event will open Monday, 1/20 at 11:00 pm

American Girl(s) by University of Missouri alumna Abby Uphoff is a KCACTF award-winning one-act play that zooms in on a moment in time at Camp Rainbow Bridge, a grief camp. The story follows MJ, a jaded young woman with existential tendencies who grapples with the loss of her beloved Aunt Kay. MJ is tasked with writing a letter to the object she brought to camp connected to her loss, a Molly American Girl Doll. With disdain for Camp Rainbow Bridge and its festive 4th of July celebration that reminds MJ of the deceptions of the “American Dream,” MJ writes and then throws her letter in the fire. In a seemingly magical turn of events, MJ is subsequently greeted by a real live version of Molly. While deeply skeptical of this “camp exercise” at first, together Molly and MJ grieve, heal, scream, sing, and question what it means to grow up as an American Girl.

Content Disclosure: discussions of grief, addiction, death, death of a family member, familial trauma, medical trauma, financial trauma, and war.

MU Theatre American Girls program pdf
Tuesday January 21, 2025 1:00pm - 1:30pm CST
Civic Center Stoner Theater 221 Walnut St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Performance, Invited Production

1:00pm CST

Devised Rehearsal
Tuesday January 21, 2025 1:00pm - 4:00pm CST
Renaissance Savery Iowa Ballroom
Festival Leadership
avatar for Joel Egger

Joel Egger

Associate Professor of Theatre, Devised Theatre Associate Coordinator, Doane University
Joel Egger is an actor, director, and teaching-artist in performance at Doane University. Joel received his Bachelor's of Arts from the University of Nebraska's Johnny Carson School of Fine and Performing Arts in 2004. Egger also has conceived several original theatre works in Los... Read More →
avatar for Adam Peterson

Adam Peterson

Devised Theatre Coordinator, Northeast Community College
Tuesday January 21, 2025 1:00pm - 4:00pm CST
Renaissance Savery Iowa Ballroom 401 Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Festival Events, Devised

1:00pm CST

Portfolio Review
Tuesday January 21, 2025 1:00pm - 4:00pm CST
Marriott Exhibit Hall North (3rd Floor)
Bring your resume and/or portfolio for professionals to give feedback and help improve your interview materials. Design, Tech and Acting Resumes welcome.

Participants must have access to the event, but others may observe. If observing please be respectful of the work. 

Festival Leadership
avatar for Lucas Granholm

Lucas Granholm

Portfolio Review Coord, U of Minnesota Morris
Lucas Granholm is an Assistant Professor of Theatre Arts at the University of Minnesota Morris (UMN Morris), Chair for The United States Institute for Theatrical Technology Northern Boundary Section, and Program Director of the Minneapolis Green Theatre Alliance. At UMN Morris, Granholm... Read More →
Tuesday January 21, 2025 1:00pm - 4:00pm CST
Marriott Exhibit Hall North (3rd Floor)
  Festival Events, DTM Expo

1:00pm CST

DTM Expo Allied Response
Tuesday January 21, 2025 1:00pm - 5:00pm CST
Marriott Des Moines Exhibits Hall (3rd Floor)
Guest Artists
avatar for Kristen Olinger

Kristen Olinger

ICON Iowa Conservatory
Kristen Olinger is the Director of Design and Production at ICON Iowa Conservatory in Iowa City. Her local work includes Projection and Lighting Design for Cornell College, Theatre Cedar Rapids, Revival Theatre Company, Cedar Rapids Opera Theatre, Riverside Theatre, Crooked Path and... Read More →
avatar for Rachael C. Rhoades

Rachael C. Rhoades

Pillsbury House + Theatre
Rachael C. Rhoades is a professional stage and production manager, based in the Twin Cities. In the span of her 20+ year career, she has had the opportunity to work with everyone from artists beginning their career to Tony Award winning performers, and has taught stage management... Read More →
Tuesday January 21, 2025 1:00pm - 5:00pm CST
Marriott Des Moines Exhibits Hall (3rd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Response, DTM Expo

2:00pm CST

How to be a Respondent for Region 5
Tuesday January 21, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm CST
Marriott Salon G (2nd Floor)
New to Region 5 or need a refresher on responding. Join the Region 5 leadership to learn best practices of responding. You will learn how to respond to regional productions and get to see some amazing student work!
Festival Leadership
avatar for Laura Chaney

Laura Chaney

RED Vice Chair, Cottey College
Laura Chaney serves as the Vice Chair of RED and is a theatre generalist at Cottey College. She earned her Master of Fine Arts degree from Tulane University in New Orleans, Louisiana. At Cottey, Laura works as a director, designer, and technical director, and she is currently the... Read More →
avatar for Haidee Heaton

Haidee Heaton

Region 5 Co-Vice Chair, Culver-Stockton College
Haidee Heaton is a Professor of Theatre at Culver-Stockton College where she serves as Associate Division Chair of Fine, Applied, and Literary Arts and Director of the Honors Scholars Program. Haidee teaches performance, directing, critical theory, and voice. Recent directing credits... Read More →
avatar for Deidre Mattox

Deidre Mattox

Region 5 Co-Vice Chair, Hutchinson Community College
Deidre is the current Co-Vice-Chair of Region 5, having previously served as the Region 5 National Playwriting Programs Vice-Chair, Coordinator of the Institute for Theatre Journalism and Advocacy, and Co-Coordinator of Dramaturgy. Deidre is also a recipient of the Region 5 Road Warrior... Read More →
Tuesday January 21, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm CST
Marriott Salon G (2nd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops, Faculty

2:00pm CST

Collaborative Theatre Challenge Followup Meeting
Tuesday January 21, 2025 2:00pm - 3:15pm CST
Renaissance Savery Roosevelt
Followup meeting for all participants of the Collaborative Theatre Challenge.

Participants must have access to the event, but others may observe. If observing please be respectful of the work. 

Guest Artists
avatar for Miguel Torres Cruz

Miguel Torres Cruz

R8 NPP Chair, CSU Fullerton
Miguel Torres Cruz is an actor, director, producer, and educator. He trained at the Pacific Conservatory Theatre (PCPA), CSU Bakersfield (BA Theatre Arts), and CSU FULLERTON (MFA in Acting). He is a faculty member at CSU Fullerton, Chair of National Playwriting Program for the Kennedy... Read More →
Festival Leadership
avatar for Cat Gleason

Cat Gleason

NPP Co-Vice Chair, Truman State University
Cat Gleason teaches acting, directing, and stage movement, as well as theatre history and criticism. An award-winning teacher, she has received the Road Warrior and Innovative Teaching honors from The Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival KCACTF5 as well as being honored... Read More →
avatar for Laura Gold

Laura Gold

NPP Co-Vice Chair, Peru State College
Laura Gold (she/her) is the Associate Professor of Theatre at Peru State College. Recent Peru Theatre Company directing credits include Orphans, Love Song, Proof, and Everybody. She is especially proud of PTC's annual production The Disco Citizens—30 plays in 60 minutes, or your... Read More →
Tuesday January 21, 2025 2:00pm - 3:15pm CST
Renaissance Savery Roosevelt 401 Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Festival Events, Collaborative Theatre Challenge

2:00pm CST

Special Event: The Genius of Being Stupid Performance
Tuesday January 21, 2025 2:00pm - 3:15pm CST
Temple Theater
This event has limited capacity. When open add this event to your schedule to reserve your spot. If you no longer will attend please remove it from your schedule to allow those on the waitlist to join.

This event will open Monday 1/20 at 11:00 pm

From the mind of acclaimed Broadway playwright Keenan Scott II comes an unflinching, deeply personal solo show that challenges perceptions and celebrates resilience. In THE GENIUS OF BEING STUPID, Scott navigates the streets of Queens, New York, and the suburban neighborhoods of Waldorf, Maryland, weaving together the humor, heartbreak, and triumph of his youth as a special education student. This autobiographical journey is as much a story of identity as he reflects on society’s narrow definitions of intelligence. Raw, insightful, and full of soul, Scott unearths the brilliance hidden within perceived flaws, offering audiences a powerful reminder of the genius that lies in every misstep.

Content Disclosure: profanity, subjective language, and a racial slur
Guest Artists
avatar for Keenan Scott II

Keenan Scott II

University of Missouri
Keenan Scott II is a playwright, poet, actor, director, and producer of original work from Queens, New York. His work has been workshopped and produced at notable theaters such as National Black Theater, New York Theater Workshop, Arena Stage, and Woolly Mammoth. His critically acclaimed... Read More →
Tuesday January 21, 2025 2:00pm - 3:15pm CST
Temple Theater 1011 Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Performance, Special Event

2:00pm CST

ASPIRE: The Creative Pitch
Tuesday January 21, 2025 2:00pm - 3:15pm CST
Marriott Cedar Rapids (3rd Floor)
Guest Artists
avatar for Leandro Zaneti

Leandro Zaneti

Evolution Mgmt Consultants
Leandro is a consultant, strategist, and facilitator based in Atlanta, GA, and a co-founder of Evolution Management Consultants, a BIPOC-owned firm specializing in search, strategic planning, and capacity-building initiatives for nonprofit organizations. He has worked with theaters... Read More →
avatar for Michelle Bombe

Michelle Bombe

Immediate Past National Chair, Hope College
Michelle Bombe is the Immediate Past National Chair of KCACTF, Executive Artistic Director of Hope Repertory Theatre- an Equity Theatre in Western Michigan, and Chair of the Theatre Department at Hope College in Holland, MI. Michelle received her MFA in design from U Texas- Austin... Read More →
Festival Leadership
avatar for Alex Pikiben

Alex Pikiben

Aspire Coord, Truman State University
Alex is a Lecturer of Theatre in Lights/Sound from Truman State University. He is also a freelance Light/Sound Designer from Minneapolis, MN. His past credits include Hair at Premiere Playhouse, Ride the Cyclone at Truman State, and Audio mixer at the True/False Festival. He loves... Read More →
Tuesday January 21, 2025 2:00pm - 3:15pm CST
Marriott Cedar Rapids (3rd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops, ASPIRE

2:00pm CST

Audition Techniques
Tuesday January 21, 2025 2:00pm - 3:15pm CST
Marriott Salon E (2nd Floor)
Program Representative and Teaching Artist, Rachel Kelsey, draws upon her professional audition experience to bring you this workshop. The intention of this session is to assist performers in improving their audition technique and specificity for both self-taped as well as in-person auditions. Here we will work on crafting strong, professional, and creative auditions experiences. Actors should have a 32 bar cut or 1-2 minute monologue prepared to workshop in a mock audition setting. During the workshop, participants will perform, work with Rachel, and have the opportunity to apply adjustments. The session is taught from the lens and personal experience of Rachel Kelsey as she has been in the room with individuals such as Alison Franck (Casting Director), Jeff Whiting (NYC Director/Choreographer), Kristian Charbonier (Casting Director), Sue Frost (Broadway Producer), etc. The workshop is open to actors at all levels in their educational career. We are thrilled to bring KCACTF Region 5 a taste of the current audition climate!
Presenters
avatar for Rachel Kelsey

Rachel Kelsey

NTI Program Representative and Admissions Manager, National Theatre Institute
I understand and acknowledge that I teach these workshops through the lens of my own background, culture, and experience. It is neither my goal nor my desire to foist my lens upon students, but to facilitate an understanding and skill set when approaching these works that enhances... Read More →
Tuesday January 21, 2025 2:00pm - 3:15pm CST
Marriott Salon E (2nd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

2:00pm CST

Congratulations! Thoughts on Writing Plays that Get Selected
Tuesday January 21, 2025 2:00pm - 3:15pm CST
Renaissance Savery Capitol
In this workshop, Scully will discuss the characteristics of plays that seem to rise to top of a selection process. Whether you are in the middle or a revision, getting ready to write a new play, or thinking about writing a play, this workshop will help you to write a play that stands out.
Presenters
avatar for Aaron Scully

Aaron Scully

NPP Chair, U of Central Missouri
Aaron Scully, PhD is an Assistant Professor of Theatre at the University of Central Missouri. His plays have been produced around the country including Atlanta, Des Moines, Washington D.C., Seattle and Pittsburgh, PA. Most recently a production of his play "The Disappointments" toured... Read More →
Tuesday January 21, 2025 2:00pm - 3:15pm CST
Renaissance Savery Capitol 401 Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

2:00pm CST

Hand to Hand Combat: The basics of fighting on stage
Tuesday January 21, 2025 2:00pm - 3:15pm CST
Marriott Waterloo (3rd Floor)
This workshop will provide an introduction and exploration of the technical and aesthetic aspects of stage combat. Goals include developing the ability to safely portray violence onstage within the context of a play. Students will learn awareness of space, strikes, pushes and falls.
Presenters
avatar for Iris D. Dodge

Iris D. Dodge

U of Northwestern St Paul
IRIS DODGE received her Theatrical training from University of Wisconsin River Falls and holds an MFA in Theatre-Stage Management from Yale University. As an Equity Stage Manager she has spent most of her theatrical career on the east coast working in Broadway and Off-Broadway Theatre... Read More →
Tuesday January 21, 2025 2:00pm - 3:15pm CST
Marriott Waterloo (3rd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

2:00pm CST

SDC Preliminary Round
Tuesday January 21, 2025 2:00pm - 4:00pm CST
Marriott Sioux City (3rd Floor)
Guest Artists
avatar for Chuma Gault

Chuma Gault

Freelance Artist
Chuma is an actor, producer and director. He is ad for FAT HAM by James Ijams (Dezart Performs); directed “ROBBIN, from the HOOD”, by Marlow Wyatt (Road Theatre). Chuma is directing in residency with two plays at the L.A. LGBTQ Center with playwrights Tony Abatemarco (The LOST... Read More →
avatar for Kelsey Mesa

Kelsey Mesa

Managing KCACTF and Theatre Education, Kennedy Center
Kelsey Mesa's (she/her/hers) directing credits include Crimes of the Heart at Catholic University, Fefu and Her Friends at the University of Maryland, College Park; The Pavilion, The Magi, and Wish List at the Hub Theatre; and Othello, Antigonick, She Rode Horses Like the Stock Exchange... Read More →
Festival Leadership
avatar for Jamie Bullins

Jamie Bullins

SDC Coordinator, U of Nebraska Lincoln
avatar for Sarah Belfrage Honerman

Sarah Belfrage Honerman

Directing Assoc. Coord, Minot State University
Sarah Belfrage-Honerman is the Director of Theatre at Minot State University. Belfrage-Honerman grew up in the Midwest, originally from Sioux Falls, SD.Belfrage-Honerman is a veteran educator, with over a decade of experience in the classroom and working in the theatre. She has built... Read More →
Tuesday January 21, 2025 2:00pm - 4:00pm CST
Marriott Sioux City (3rd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Festival Events, SDC

2:00pm CST

MTI Dance Rehearsal
Tuesday January 21, 2025 2:00pm - 5:00pm CST
Renaissance Savery I & II
Participants must have access to the event, but others may observe. If observing please be respectful of the work. 

Guest Artists
avatar for Josh Walden

Josh Walden

Open Jar Institute
JOSH WALDEN (they/them) was the Associate Director/Associate Choreographer for the Tony Nominated Broadway Revival of Ragtime and was a choreographer for Disney+’s Encore(S1, E12). Director/Choreographer credits include Camelot (The Cape Playhouse), Smokey Joe's Cafe (Fulton Theatre... Read More →
Festival Leadership
avatar for Sheldon Mba

Sheldon Mba

MTI Dance Assoc. Coord, Wichita State University
avatar for Emily Wirkus

Emily Wirkus

MTI Coordinator, University of North Dakota
Tuesday January 21, 2025 2:00pm - 5:00pm CST
Renaissance Savery I & II 401 Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Festival Events, MTI Dance

2:00pm CST

Santa Fe Opera Call Backs
Tuesday January 21, 2025 2:00pm - 5:00pm CST
Marriott Dubuque (3rd Floor)
Guest Artists
avatar for Tracy Armagost

Tracy Armagost

Production and Recruiting Coordinator, Sante Fe Opera
Tracy Armagost is beginning her 38th Season with the Santa Fe Opera.Tracy’s first position with the Santa Fe Opera was as a Properties Carpenter Apprentice. Over the years, she has also worked as part of the Properties Run Crew, Development Office, and the Housing Office to name... Read More →
Tuesday January 21, 2025 2:00pm - 5:00pm CST
Marriott Dubuque (3rd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Orientation/Meeting, PA/TI

2:00pm CST

American Girl(s) Load Out
Tuesday January 21, 2025 2:00pm - 6:00pm CST
Civic Center Stoner Theater
Presenters
avatar for Spencer Musser

Spencer Musser

Assoc Workshop Coord, U of Central Missouri
Spencer Musser is the assistant professor of scene design and technical direction at the University of Central Missouri. He is a graduate of UMKC graduate theatre program and the Kansas City Art Institute. Since graduation he has worked and taught around the United States including... Read More →
BR

Brad Reissig

University of North Dakota
Festival Leadership
avatar for Noah J. Files

Noah J. Files

DTM Vice Chair, Drake University
Originally from northwest ND, Noah J. Files has worked in the theatre on both coasts and throughout the Midwest. He earned his MFA in Scenic Design from Minnesota State University, Mankato and a BA in Theatre Arts from Minot State University in Minot, ND. A former Region V student... Read More →
Tuesday January 21, 2025 2:00pm - 6:00pm CST
Civic Center Stoner Theater 221 Walnut St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Orientation/Meeting, Invited Production

3:30pm CST

"Do it again, with an Irish accent": learning dialects!
Tuesday January 21, 2025 3:30pm - 4:45pm CST
Renaissance Savery Truman
Maybe you're preparing for an audition, or you've already got the part, or you've been called back and they said "let's hear it with [fill in the blank] accent next time." Now what? We'll walk through the steps of adopting a dialect -- and the right one for the role -- using a process adaptable to any language/dialect/situation, from "I need it tomorrow" to "I've got months to get it right."
Presenters
avatar for Laurel Koerner

Laurel Koerner

Dordt University
Laurel Alons Koerner (MFA Acting, CalArts; MA Bowling Green State University) is a theatre artist-educator specializing in acting and directing. In addition to teaching, directing, and designing for productions at Dordt University, she coaches professional actors in preparing dialects... Read More →
Tuesday January 21, 2025 3:30pm - 4:45pm CST
Renaissance Savery Truman 401 Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

3:30pm CST

An "Epic" Fight Call
Tuesday January 21, 2025 3:30pm - 4:45pm CST
Marriott Waterloo (3rd Floor)
Congratulations! You just received a call back for the stage version of Epic: The Musical. Now you are being asked to come in for a fight callback before casting concludes. Come learn an "Epic" fight to one of the songs in the trending musical by Jorge Rivera-Herrans.
Presenters
avatar for Dan Spiropoulos

Dan Spiropoulos

University of South Dakota
Dan Spiropoulos is an Advanced Actor Combatant with The Society of American Fight Directors and an Actor Combatant with the British Academy of Stage and Screen Combat. Dan has also started his own company called Ronin Theatricals LLC which provides fight choreography for shows, stage... Read More →
Tuesday January 21, 2025 3:30pm - 4:45pm CST
Marriott Waterloo (3rd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

3:30pm CST

ASPIRE: Mission, Vision, Values
Tuesday January 21, 2025 3:30pm - 4:45pm CST
Marriott Cedar Rapids (3rd Floor)
Guest Artists
avatar for Leandro Zaneti

Leandro Zaneti

Evolution Mgmt Consultants
Leandro is a consultant, strategist, and facilitator based in Atlanta, GA, and a co-founder of Evolution Management Consultants, a BIPOC-owned firm specializing in search, strategic planning, and capacity-building initiatives for nonprofit organizations. He has worked with theaters... Read More →
avatar for Michelle Bombe

Michelle Bombe

Immediate Past National Chair, Hope College
Michelle Bombe is the Immediate Past National Chair of KCACTF, Executive Artistic Director of Hope Repertory Theatre- an Equity Theatre in Western Michigan, and Chair of the Theatre Department at Hope College in Holland, MI. Michelle received her MFA in design from U Texas- Austin... Read More →
Festival Leadership
avatar for Alex Pikiben

Alex Pikiben

Aspire Coord, Truman State University
Alex is a Lecturer of Theatre in Lights/Sound from Truman State University. He is also a freelance Light/Sound Designer from Minneapolis, MN. His past credits include Hair at Premiere Playhouse, Ride the Cyclone at Truman State, and Audio mixer at the True/False Festival. He loves... Read More →
Tuesday January 21, 2025 3:30pm - 4:45pm CST
Marriott Cedar Rapids (3rd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops, ASPIRE

3:30pm CST

Audition and Interview Best Practices
Tuesday January 21, 2025 3:30pm - 4:45pm CST
Marriott Salon B (2nd Floor)
Festival Leadership
avatar for Billy Wilburn

Billy Wilburn

Prof. Audition/Interview Coord., South Dakota State University
Billy is an Associate Professor of Theatre at South Dakota State University. He is also the Artistic Director of Prairie Repertory Theatre in Brookings, South Dakota, and serves as coordinator of Professional Auditions and Technical Interviews KCACTF 5. He earned his B.A. in Theatre... Read More →
Tuesday January 21, 2025 3:30pm - 4:45pm CST
Marriott Salon B (2nd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops, PA/TI

3:30pm CST

Droznin Russian Movement
Tuesday January 21, 2025 3:30pm - 4:45pm CST
Marriott Salon E (2nd Floor)
Program Representative and Teaching Artist, Rachel Kelsey, draws upon teaching techniques of NTI master teacher and Artistic Director, Rachel Jett to bring you this workshop. Droznin is a Russian movement style that originated at the Moscow Art Theater in Russia by Andrei Droznin. The goal of this work is to forge/identify a connection between body and mind as well as body and soul. That way, when an individual feels something, their instinctual response will be to express themselves. Additionally, Droznin has described his method as "living movement" - stage movement that blurs the boundaries between dance, mime, and vernacular gesture. This, in turn, allows the audience to identify with performances in additional depth. Rachel Jett is the first American teacher of Droznin, as she studied directly under his guidance in Moscow, and we are thrilled to bring KCACTF Region 5 a taste!
Presenters
avatar for Rachel Kelsey

Rachel Kelsey

NTI Program Representative and Admissions Manager, National Theatre Institute
I understand and acknowledge that I teach these workshops through the lens of my own background, culture, and experience. It is neither my goal nor my desire to foist my lens upon students, but to facilitate an understanding and skill set when approaching these works that enhances... Read More →
Tuesday January 21, 2025 3:30pm - 4:45pm CST
Marriott Salon E (2nd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

3:30pm CST

Provoking the Text: Staging Unconventional Performance Pieces
Tuesday January 21, 2025 3:30pm - 4:45pm CST
Marriott Council Bluffs/Davenport (3rd Floor)
Learn and experiment with the process of “provoking” a text—an active process of collaboratively unlocking the storytelling and performance potential of unusual, unconventional, or non-standard scripts. Great for developing new work, staging personal narrative, activating adaptations, or bringing classical or translated works to life, this hands-on workshop will offer techniques useful to directors, actors, playwrights, dramaturgs, and designers.
Presenters
avatar for Jayna Gearhart Fitzsimmons

Jayna Gearhart Fitzsimmons

Augustana University
Drs. Jayna Gearhart Fitzsimmons (theatre) and Richard W. Swanson (classics, religion, and philosophy) teach at Augustana University and have developed an interdisciplinary approach to developing and collaboratively staging new work. Together, Jayna (director and dramaturg) and Richard... Read More →
Tuesday January 21, 2025 3:30pm - 4:45pm CST
Marriott Council Bluffs/Davenport (3rd Floor)
  Workshops

3:30pm CST

The Director and the Dramaturg in Community: How to enhance the quality of your theatre production
Tuesday January 21, 2025 3:30pm - 4:45pm CST
Marriott Salon G (2nd Floor)
Directors and Dramaturgs: What does a successful union look like to you?
Directors: How can you utilize your Dramaturgs more effectively?
Dramaturgs: How can you introduce your research as an aid for the Director?
This workshop will be an inside look into a successful Director/Dramaturg collaboration: How the Dramaturg's work can feed into the Director's vision, preparation and process, and how the Director can highlight the Dramaturgs work throughout the production and performance process.
Presenters
avatar for Jennifer Hunter

Jennifer Hunter

U of Northwestern St Paul
Jennifer Hunter is the Artistic Director and Professor of Theatre at the University of Northwestern St Paul. (MFA, Baylor University 2000). She was a member of the Lincoln Center Directors Lab, (NY ’09), Directors Lab North, (Toronto’11), Juilliard Directing Fellow (NY ’12... Read More →
Tuesday January 21, 2025 3:30pm - 4:45pm CST
Marriott Salon G (2nd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

4:00pm CST

SDC Deliberations
Tuesday January 21, 2025 4:00pm - 5:00pm CST
Marriott Sioux City (3rd Floor)
Deliberations for SDC Prelim Round (Closed Session)
Guest Artists
avatar for Chuma Gault

Chuma Gault

Freelance Artist
Chuma is an actor, producer and director. He is ad for FAT HAM by James Ijams (Dezart Performs); directed “ROBBIN, from the HOOD”, by Marlow Wyatt (Road Theatre). Chuma is directing in residency with two plays at the L.A. LGBTQ Center with playwrights Tony Abatemarco (The LOST... Read More →
avatar for Kelsey Mesa

Kelsey Mesa

Managing KCACTF and Theatre Education, Kennedy Center
Kelsey Mesa's (she/her/hers) directing credits include Crimes of the Heart at Catholic University, Fefu and Her Friends at the University of Maryland, College Park; The Pavilion, The Magi, and Wish List at the Hub Theatre; and Othello, Antigonick, She Rode Horses Like the Stock Exchange... Read More →
Festival Leadership
avatar for Jamie Bullins

Jamie Bullins

SDC Coordinator, U of Nebraska Lincoln
avatar for Sarah Belfrage Honerman

Sarah Belfrage Honerman

Directing Assoc. Coord, Minot State University
Sarah Belfrage-Honerman is the Director of Theatre at Minot State University. Belfrage-Honerman grew up in the Midwest, originally from Sioux Falls, SD.Belfrage-Honerman is a veteran educator, with over a decade of experience in the classroom and working in the theatre. She has built... Read More →
Tuesday January 21, 2025 4:00pm - 5:00pm CST
Marriott Sioux City (3rd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Orientation/Meeting, SDC

5:00pm CST

Special Event: The Genius of Being Stupid Performance
Tuesday January 21, 2025 5:00pm - 6:15pm CST
Temple Theater
This event has limited capacity. When open add this event to your schedule to reserve your spot. If you no longer will attend please remove it from your schedule to allow those on the waitlist to join.

This event will open Monday 1/20 at 11:00 pm

From the mind of acclaimed Broadway playwright Keenan Scott II comes an unflinching, deeply personal solo show that challenges perceptions and celebrates resilience. In THE GENIUS OF BEING STUPID, Scott navigates the streets of Queens, New York, and the suburban neighborhoods of Waldorf, Maryland, weaving together the humor, heartbreak, and triumph of his youth as a special education student. This autobiographical journey is as much a story of identity as he reflects on society’s narrow definitions of intelligence. Raw, insightful, and full of soul, Scott unearths the brilliance hidden within perceived flaws, offering audiences a powerful reminder of the genius that lies in every misstep.

Content Disclosure: profanity, subjective language, and a racial slur
Guest Artists
avatar for Keenan Scott II

Keenan Scott II

University of Missouri
Keenan Scott II is a playwright, poet, actor, director, and producer of original work from Queens, New York. His work has been workshopped and produced at notable theaters such as National Black Theater, New York Theater Workshop, Arena Stage, and Woolly Mammoth. His critically acclaimed... Read More →
Tuesday January 21, 2025 5:00pm - 6:15pm CST
Temple Theater 1011 Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Performance, Special Event

6:30pm CST

Special Event: The Genius of Being Stupid Load Out
Tuesday January 21, 2025 6:30pm - 7:30pm CST
Temple Theater
Guest Artists
avatar for Keenan Scott II

Keenan Scott II

University of Missouri
Keenan Scott II is a playwright, poet, actor, director, and producer of original work from Queens, New York. His work has been workshopped and produced at notable theaters such as National Black Theater, New York Theater Workshop, Arena Stage, and Woolly Mammoth. His critically acclaimed... Read More →
Tuesday January 21, 2025 6:30pm - 7:30pm CST
Temple Theater 1011 Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Orientation/Meeting, Special Event

7:00pm CST

Invited Production: Fuddy Meers
Tuesday January 21, 2025 7:00pm - 9:00pm CST
Hoyt Sherman Place
Digital program
Fuddy Meers is one harrowing and hilarious turn after another on a roller coaster ride through the day of an amnesiac trying to decipher her fractured life. Claire is abducted by a man who claims her husband wants to kill her. Audiences will view the ensuing mayhem through the kaleidoscope of Claire's world!

Content Disclosure: contains mature language, live gunfire, physical violence and themes related to domestic violence

Tuesday January 21, 2025 7:00pm - 9:00pm CST
Hoyt Sherman Place 1501 Woodland Ave, Des Moines, IA 50314, USA
  Performance, Invited Production

9:30pm CST

Invited Production: Fuddy Meers Load Out
Tuesday January 21, 2025 9:30pm - 11:55pm CST
Hoyt Sherman Place
Presenters
avatar for George Grubb

George Grubb

Technical Director/Sound Designer/Chair, Minnesota State U Mankato
Things I like: knot tying, teaching, building stuff, creating soundscapes, the outdoors, automation, rigging, drafting, cooking, eating, sleeping, being neurodivergent.
avatar for Natalie Hining

Natalie Hining

Stage Crew Olympics Coord, Simpson College
Festival Leadership
avatar for Noah J. Files

Noah J. Files

DTM Vice Chair, Drake University
Originally from northwest ND, Noah J. Files has worked in the theatre on both coasts and throughout the Midwest. He earned his MFA in Scenic Design from Minnesota State University, Mankato and a BA in Theatre Arts from Minot State University in Minot, ND. A former Region V student... Read More →
Tuesday January 21, 2025 9:30pm - 11:55pm CST
Hoyt Sherman Place 1501 Woodland Ave, Des Moines, IA 50314, USA
  Orientation/Meeting, Invited Production

10:00pm CST

Student Improv Showcase
Tuesday January 21, 2025 10:00pm - 11:30pm CST
Marriott Salon D (2nd Floor)
Student improv groups from around the region showcase their talents in a great event. Join in the fun! A workshop the next day will discuss how they do what they do!
Festival Leadership
avatar for Haidee Heaton

Haidee Heaton

Region 5 Co-Vice Chair, Culver-Stockton College
Haidee Heaton is a Professor of Theatre at Culver-Stockton College where she serves as Associate Division Chair of Fine, Applied, and Literary Arts and Director of the Honors Scholars Program. Haidee teaches performance, directing, critical theory, and voice. Recent directing credits... Read More →
avatar for Deidre Mattox

Deidre Mattox

Region 5 Co-Vice Chair, Hutchinson Community College
Deidre is the current Co-Vice-Chair of Region 5, having previously served as the Region 5 National Playwriting Programs Vice-Chair, Coordinator of the Institute for Theatre Journalism and Advocacy, and Co-Coordinator of Dramaturgy. Deidre is also a recipient of the Region 5 Road Warrior... Read More →
HT

Heather Tinker

Irene Ryan Assoc. Coord, MidAmerica Nazarene U
Tuesday January 21, 2025 10:00pm - 11:30pm CST
Marriott Salon D (2nd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Performance

10:00pm CST

Faculty and Guest Artist Hospitality Suite
Tuesday January 21, 2025 10:00pm - 11:55pm CST
Marriott Hospitality Suite Room 3108
Festival Leadership
avatar for Haidee Heaton

Haidee Heaton

Region 5 Co-Vice Chair, Culver-Stockton College
Haidee Heaton is a Professor of Theatre at Culver-Stockton College where she serves as Associate Division Chair of Fine, Applied, and Literary Arts and Director of the Honors Scholars Program. Haidee teaches performance, directing, critical theory, and voice. Recent directing credits... Read More →
avatar for Deidre Mattox

Deidre Mattox

Region 5 Co-Vice Chair, Hutchinson Community College
Deidre is the current Co-Vice-Chair of Region 5, having previously served as the Region 5 National Playwriting Programs Vice-Chair, Coordinator of the Institute for Theatre Journalism and Advocacy, and Co-Coordinator of Dramaturgy. Deidre is also a recipient of the Region 5 Road Warrior... Read More →
avatar for Emily Cherry Oliver

Emily Cherry Oliver

Region 5 Co-Chair, University of North Dakota
Emily Cherry Oliver is the Professor and Chair of the Department of Theatre Arts at the University of North Dakota, as well as the Co-Director of the UND AI and Human Innovation Initiative. She holds a BFA in Musical Theatre and an MFA in Directing, seamlessly integrating both disciplines... Read More →
avatar for Lindsey Duoos Williams

Lindsey Duoos Williams

Region 5 Co-Chair, Rochester Civic Theatre
Lindsey Duoos Williams is the Artistic Director at Rochester Civic Theatre in Rochester, Minnesota. For thirteen years, she served as the Theatre Director at Riverland Community College in Austin, Minnesota, where she created the state’s only AFA in Musical Theatre degree program... Read More →
Tuesday January 21, 2025 10:00pm - 11:55pm CST
Marriott Hospitality Suite Room 3108
  Faculty, Hospitality Suite
 
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