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Sunday, January 19
 

9:30pm CST

SDC Orientation
Sunday January 19, 2025 9:30pm - 10:15pm CST
Marriott Salon C (2nd Floor)
Orientation for all SDC participants
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 →
Sunday January 19, 2025 9:30pm - 10:15pm CST
Marriott Salon C (2nd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Orientation/Meeting, SDC
 
Monday, January 20
 

7:00am CST

Irene Ryan Headquarters
Monday January 20, 2025 7:00am - 5:00pm CST
Marriott Salon A (2nd Floor)
Headquarters for Irene Ryans
Festival Leadership
EM

Erik Meixelsperger

Ryan Assoc. Coord, Drake University
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 →
HT

Heather Tinker

Irene Ryan Assoc. Coord, MidAmerica Nazarene U
Monday January 20, 2025 7:00am - 5:00pm CST
Marriott Salon A (2nd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Festival Events, Irene Ryans

8:00am CST

Power of the People: Mastering Ensemble Performance
Monday January 20, 2025 8:00am - 9:15am CST
Marriott Salon D (2nd Floor)
How do you know the actor who walked onstage is a Queen? How do you know that Hamlet's response to his mother's wedding is not just impolite but dangerous? It's the ensemble. The whole room shifts when it happens. In this workshop, we will use Russian Ensemble exercises to practice stage awareness, understanding circumstances, and creating impactful events. We'll play ensemble games and create short etude performances to test and practice the skills.
Presenters
avatar for Kassy Skoretz

Kassy Skoretz

Anoka Ramsey Community College
Kassy Skoretz is a faculty member at Anoka Ramsey Community College. Their PhD as a scholar-director is from Wayne State University and they have been directing and performing in the twin cities for 8 years. They trained with the Moscow Art Theatre and East West Players; their doctoral... Read More →
Monday January 20, 2025 8:00am - 9:15am CST
Marriott Salon D (2nd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

9:30am CST

Acting in Masks
Monday January 20, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am CST
Marriott Council Bluffs/Davenport (3rd Floor)
The workshop will help students awaken their imagination and liberate themselves from physical and psychological inhibitions.
Playing with Character Masks grants students the freedom to explore different personas and express their inner thoughts and emotions, and guides students toward making bold physical and vocal choices on stage.
The workshop includes:
Physical and vocal warm-up.
Learning basic principles of working with masks.
Improvisations.
Presenters
avatar for Vladimir Rovinsky

Vladimir Rovinsky

Minnesota State U Mankato
Vladimir Rovinsky received an MFA in directing from the St. Petersburg Academy of Theatre Arts, Russia. Before coming to America in 2000 he was working as a professional theatre director in Russia. He has been teaching acting since 1996 and has worked as a director, actor, and teacher... Read More →
Monday January 20, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am CST
Marriott Council Bluffs/Davenport (3rd Floor)
  Workshops

9:30am CST

The Disco Citizens Present: WRITE NOW!
Monday January 20, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am CST
Marriott Dubuque (3rd Floor)
Wanna act, direct, and/or write plays? Don't wait to be cast in someone else's project, get your friends together and do it yourself! This workshop kicks you into high gear towards creating your own fast paced, short form, home-grown show. Together we’ll select a theme, do some flash writing exercises, and get you started on your path to production. No need to wait for someone else to give you permission, you have all the tools you need!
Presenters
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 →
Monday January 20, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am CST
Marriott Dubuque (3rd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

11:00am CST

Hand to Hand Combat: The basics of fighting on stage
Monday January 20, 2025 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
Marriott Salon D (2nd 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 →
Monday January 20, 2025 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
Marriott Salon D (2nd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

11:00am CST

The Introduction to Meyerhold's Biomechanics
Monday January 20, 2025 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
Marriott Council Bluffs/Davenport (3rd Floor)
A practical workshop in the physical actor training method created by legendary Russian director Vsevolod Meyerhold. The technique was created as an alternative to Stanislavsky’s system and utilized grotesque and decidedly non-realistic artistic approaches. Biomechanics is a wonderful tool for practical understanding of theatricality in the moving body, use of the body for storytelling, and expansion of physical expressiveness and thus is useful to an actor preparing for work in any theatrical language.
Presenters
avatar for Vladimir Rovinsky

Vladimir Rovinsky

Minnesota State U Mankato
Vladimir Rovinsky received an MFA in directing from the St. Petersburg Academy of Theatre Arts, Russia. Before coming to America in 2000 he was working as a professional theatre director in Russia. He has been teaching acting since 1996 and has worked as a director, actor, and teacher... Read More →
Monday January 20, 2025 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
Marriott Council Bluffs/Davenport (3rd Floor)
  Workshops

12:30pm CST

The Wall-E Factor: Your Body as Narrative Tool
Monday January 20, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Marriott Council Bluffs/Davenport (3rd Floor)
This workshop uses Stanislavski's method of Etudes for actor training to practice building a character, a story, and an event onstage. You will sharpen your understanding and confidence in your body in space, your effect on the audience, and your own ability to structure a moment. The etude has been developed as a tool at the Moscow Art Theatre through Anatoly Efros, Maria Knebel, and other contemporary actors and directors.
Presenters
avatar for Kassy Skoretz

Kassy Skoretz

Anoka Ramsey Community College
Kassy Skoretz is a faculty member at Anoka Ramsey Community College. Their PhD as a scholar-director is from Wayne State University and they have been directing and performing in the twin cities for 8 years. They trained with the Moscow Art Theatre and East West Players; their doctoral... Read More →
Monday January 20, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Marriott Council Bluffs/Davenport (3rd Floor)
  Workshops

2:00pm CST

The Professional - Introduction to Knife Fighting on Stage
Monday January 20, 2025 2:00pm - 3:15pm CST
Marriott Council Bluffs/Davenport (3rd Floor)
An introductory look at one of the fastest growing weapon styles for the stage -- the knife. How to take a simple 3 tor 4 inch piece of metal and make a convincing narrative using acting, psychological gesture, body mechanics, and discipline. No previous experience is necessary, and it is the hope that everyone from the experienced to the amateur will walk out of the workshop looking like a professional fighter.
Presenters
avatar for Joseph Urick

Joseph Urick

PA/TI Assoc Coord, Wichita State University
JOSEPH URICK is an award-winning actor based in Wichita, Kansas. He has performed Off-Broadway, nationally, and internationally at such theatres as the ZACH Scott, Texas Light Opera, and Theatre Soutwest in Texas; the Hippodrome and Florida Shakespeare; and the Papagaou Theatre and... Read More →
Monday January 20, 2025 2:00pm - 3:15pm CST
Marriott Council Bluffs/Davenport (3rd Floor)
  Workshops

3:30pm CST

Acting Shakespeare: the basics
Monday January 20, 2025 3:30pm - 4:45pm CST
Marriott Council Bluffs/Davenport (3rd Floor)
How do you use iambic pentameter and not let it use you? Why is Shakespeare so confusing? Is there a secret code to understanding Shakespeare? In this workshop we will unlock the basics of acting Shakespeare so you can perform The Bard's work with confidence. Bring a Shakespeare monologue to work on, or use the one provided.
Presenters
avatar for Molly Wiebe Faber

Molly Wiebe Faber

Northwestern College
Molly Wiebe Faber is an assistant professor of theatre at Northwestern College in Orange City, IA, where she teaches acting and directing courses. Molly graduated with her MFA in Acting from East 15 Acting School in England, and with a BA in Theatre and Psychology from Tabor College... Read More →
Monday January 20, 2025 3:30pm - 4:45pm CST
Marriott Council Bluffs/Davenport (3rd Floor)
  Workshops

3:30pm CST

Elements of Behavior: Bridging Acting & Playwriting
Monday January 20, 2025 3:30pm - 4:45pm CST
Marriott Cedar Rapids (3rd Floor)
A look at two of Stanislavski's elements of acting (event and appraisal) and how they can serve a playwright in story telling.
Presenters
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 →
Monday January 20, 2025 3:30pm - 4:45pm CST
Marriott Cedar Rapids (3rd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops
 
Tuesday, January 21
 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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
 
Wednesday, January 22
 

10:00am CST

Building Ensemble through Devising
Wednesday January 22, 2025 10:00am - 12:30pm CST
Renaissance Savery Truman
Experience how an ensemble can be quickly developed through physical devising. This workshop includes methods from Frantic Assembly Devising and Ali Hodge with influences from Viewpoints and Chekhov. Intimacy practices will be observed throughout.
Presenters
avatar for Violette Briggs

Violette Briggs

Western Nebraska CC
Violette Briggs is the theatre director at WNCC in Nebraska. She is an actor (and in 2004 was the acting artistic director) with Theatre West. She has worked throughout the United States and Great Britain as an actor, director, and acting coach. Violette is an Intimacy Choreographer... Read More →
Wednesday January 22, 2025 10:00am - 12:30pm CST
Renaissance Savery Truman 401 Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

11:00am CST

Intimacy Direction -- Advocating for Clear Boundaries, Communication, and Collaboration
Wednesday January 22, 2025 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
Renaissance Savery Roosevelt
Intimacy Direction is a topic of conversation that we as theatre practitioners should not only be aware, but we should also be advocating for having intimacy professionals in the room. What can we do for those in the room to advocate for those boundaries? How can we advocate for clear communication and continued collaboration? This workshop will delve into the variety of avenues for learning intimacy direction, practicing the craft, and making theatre artists safe.
Presenters
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 →
Wednesday January 22, 2025 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
Renaissance Savery Roosevelt 401 Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

2:00pm CST

Stage Intimacy Basics
Wednesday January 22, 2025 2:00pm - 3:15pm CST
Marriott Salon B (2nd Floor)
As storytellers and artists, we cannot convincingly portray relationships without incorporating some level of intimacy. From physical contact that communicates familiarity to simulated sexual acts, there are several tools that can be accessed to make these moments informed, consent-driven, and repeatable. We will explore some of the tools to create these moments and workshop different ways they can be used.
Presenters
avatar for Erin Urick

Erin Urick

Temporary Full-time Faculty - Theatre, Butler Community College
Erin Urick (they/them) is an award-winning performer and director, with an MFA in Stage Management from the University of Idaho and over 200 hours of experience as an Intimacy Director. They currently hold a faculty position at Butler Community College in El Dorado, KS.
Wednesday January 22, 2025 2:00pm - 3:15pm CST
Marriott Salon B (2nd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

2:00pm CST

Student Improv Showcase Workshop
Wednesday January 22, 2025 2:00pm - 3:15pm CST
Marriott Sioux City (3rd Floor)
Debrief from the Student Improv Showcase and Learn how to do the same thing at your school
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
Wednesday January 22, 2025 2:00pm - 3:15pm CST
Marriott Sioux City (3rd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

3:30pm CST

How to Scan Texts from Shakespeare to T. Swift, or, What Meter Can Do For You
Wednesday January 22, 2025 3:30pm - 4:45pm CST
Marriott Salon B (2nd Floor)
What do Taylor Swift and Shakespeare have in common? Find out in this interactive, hands-on workshop that will teach you how to 'hear' the meter (or rhythm) of poetic plays and use it to your advantage when analyzing, directing, or performing monologues from the plays of Shakespeare and his contemporaries. So often we stop at Iambic Pentameter when there is so much more to meter, and deepening our knowledge of it can unlock so much within Shakespearian texts. We will practice scanning (or marking out the rhythm of) some of Shakespeare's poetic verse, analyzing how this can affect one's interpretation of a poetic speech, and exploring how the use of verse continues today in modern media, particularly contemporary music.

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 →
Wednesday January 22, 2025 3:30pm - 4:45pm CST
Marriott Salon B (2nd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops
 
Thursday, January 23
 

11:00am CST

The Professional - Introduction to Knife Fighting on Stage
Thursday January 23, 2025 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
Renaissance Savery Iowa Ballroom
An introductory look at one of the fastest growing weapon styles for the stage -- the knife. How to take a simple 3 tor 4 inch piece of metal and make a convincing narrative using acting, psychological gesture, body mechanics, and discipline. No previous experience is necessary, and it is the hope that everyone from the experienced to the amateur will walk out of the workshop looking like a professional fighter.
Presenters
avatar for Joseph Urick

Joseph Urick

PA/TI Assoc Coord, Wichita State University
JOSEPH URICK is an award-winning actor based in Wichita, Kansas. He has performed Off-Broadway, nationally, and internationally at such theatres as the ZACH Scott, Texas Light Opera, and Theatre Soutwest in Texas; the Hippodrome and Florida Shakespeare; and the Papagaou Theatre and... Read More →
Thursday January 23, 2025 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
Renaissance Savery Iowa Ballroom 401 Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

12:30pm CST

Emotional Intimacy
Thursday January 23, 2025 12:30pm - 3:00pm CST
Marriott Salon C (2nd Floor)
Gain agency while working with your emotions with the emotional effector patterns. The Emotional Body Method uses somatic education methods to help you understand how to physically “tune into” your body using all your senses (sight, smell, taste, sound, touch, and movement). Emotional Body follows consent-based and trauma-informed teaching practices, constantly placing the emphasis on the learner's personal agency with the use of invitational language, respect for the learner's privacy and pace, and acknowledgment of individual tolerance levels. In this workshop, you will learn how to engage with and regulate 2 emotional states, and get a glimpse at how to integrate the work with text.
Presenters
avatar for Violette Briggs

Violette Briggs

Western Nebraska CC
Violette Briggs is the theatre director at WNCC in Nebraska. She is an actor (and in 2004 was the acting artistic director) with Theatre West. She has worked throughout the United States and Great Britain as an actor, director, and acting coach. Violette is an Intimacy Choreographer... Read More →
Emotional Intimacy pptx
Gaze Handout pdf
Thursday January 23, 2025 12:30pm - 3:00pm CST
Marriott Salon C (2nd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

12:30pm CST

Suzuki-Viewpoints Actor Training Intensive
Thursday January 23, 2025 12:30pm - 3:00pm CST
Marriott Salon E (2nd Floor)
An interactive intensive that demonstrates the building blocks of the Suzuki-Viewpoints method of actor training, a physically rigorous style of training developed by directors Tadashi Suzuki and Anne Bogart. Participants will be led through the physical acting exercises as well as theoretical discussions on the application of Suzuki Viewpoints in modern theatre.

Participants must come in movement/exercise attire, socks, and be prepared for leg-oriented movement work.
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 →
Thursday January 23, 2025 12:30pm - 3:00pm CST
Marriott Salon E (2nd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

2:00pm CST

Directing from Curiosity
Thursday January 23, 2025 2:00pm - 4:30pm CST
Marriott Cedar Rapids (3rd Floor)
Directing is...well is difficult to define. There are myriad approaches to the craft, and (hot take) there isn't a "right" way. There is, however, a set of essential tools for all directors, the most important of which are analysis, observation, and communication. In this workshop, participants will spend time discussing theory and preparation for scene work and will practice various tools and techniques on selected scenes under the watchful eye of not only the instructor, but also their peers.
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 →
Thursday January 23, 2025 2:00pm - 4:30pm CST
Marriott Cedar Rapids (3rd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

3:30pm CST

Directors & Teachers: Collaborating with Intimacy Choreographers
Thursday January 23, 2025 3:30pm - 4:45pm CST
Marriott Salon B (2nd Floor)
Have you been hearing talk about intimacy choreography and been wondering, what does that mean? Have you wondered what constitutes intimacy in the theatrical world? Is it just for nudity and very “spicy” scenes, like Spring Awakening? Have you thought about how you would work with someone on this content as a director? Or if theatres should even bother with the practice? If you answered yes to any of these questions, this is the workshop for you!
Presenters
avatar for Cody Allyn Page

Cody Allyn Page

Assistant Professor of Theatre, Cottey College
Dr. cody allyn page earned his Bachelor of Humanities in Communications from Penn State, his Master of Arts in Educational Theatre for Colleges and Communities from NYU Steinhardt, and his Ph.D. in Theatre with a Graduate Certificate in Performance Studies from BGSU.Their research... Read More →
Thursday January 23, 2025 3:30pm - 4:45pm CST
Marriott Salon B (2nd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

3:30pm CST

Intro to Teaching Artistry & The Finding the Fun
Thursday January 23, 2025 3:30pm - 4:45pm CST
Marriott Salon C (2nd Floor)
Gain confidence in how to lead an acting workshop for young people! Do you love kids, but feel unsure about how to structure an acting class? Want to help the next generation of kids find a passion for theatre? Demystify the art of teaching theatre to young people in this 75-minute introduction to teaching artistry. You'll walk away with practical tips and tricks to create lesson plans, manage a classroom, and unlock a sense of play in your own acting work.
Presenters
avatar for Katie Colletta

Katie Colletta

Kirkwood Community College
Originally from Illinois, Katie earned her MA in Arts Administration from University of Kentucky and her BFA in Musical Theatre from Millikin University. She has taught and directed with nationally recognized institutions including Imagination Stage, Signature Theatre and Wolf Trap... Read More →
Thursday January 23, 2025 3:30pm - 4:45pm CST
Marriott Salon C (2nd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

3:30pm CST

Sankofa Workshop: Where Does Theatre Begin?
Thursday January 23, 2025 3:30pm - 4:45pm CST
Marriott Waterloo (3rd Floor)
Professional and student artists invited to workshop in the spirit of SANKOFA (Ghana) which means, “taking from the past to make positive progress through the benevolent use of knowledge.”  What can the next generation learn from our predecessors and peers? Start points like, where does Theatre begin, translating the “directors vision,” building trust during the process and career preparing students beyond what's taught in class. All are welcome to drop in, bring questions and share knowledge.
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 →
Thursday January 23, 2025 3:30pm - 4:45pm CST
Marriott Waterloo (3rd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops
 
Friday, January 24
 

9:30am CST

Building Spaces of Acceptable Risk: Mental Health Coordination in Theatre
Friday January 24, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am CST
Marriott Salon A (2nd Floor)
This workshop will introduce students and faculty to the burgoning field of mental health coordination in theatre and film. Attendees will learn how to cultivate rehearsal and performance practices that establish and respect individual boundaries and allow actors to do challenging work without causing mental or emotional harm to themselves. Other topics will include ways to self advocate, character de-rolling, and exercises for regulating the body in the rehearsal space.
Presenters
avatar for Carrie Pozdol

Carrie Pozdol

Intimacy Director
Carrie Pozdol is an actor, director, intimacy choreographer, and mental health coordinator based in eastern Iowa. Carrie has her BA in theatre from Simpson College and has extensive training in intimacy choreography and coordination with Theatrical Intimacy Education (TIE) and Intimacy... Read More →
Friday January 24, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am CST
Marriott Salon A (2nd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

9:30am CST

Building your Resume
Friday January 24, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am CST
Marriott Salon G (2nd Floor)
Program Representative and Teaching Artist, Rachel Kelsey, draws upon her personal and professional experience to bring you this workshop on building a theatrical resume. In this session, we will take a look at common resume layouts of industry professionals, examine what should be included on a resume, and craft our own. If time allows, we will deep-dive into headshots and websites as well. The intention of this session is to assist performers in creating tools to help them have successful careers and auditions. Here we will work on crafting strong, professional, and unique resumes. The session is taught from the lens and personal experience of Rachel Kelsey as she has attended professional auditions with individuals such as Alison Franck (Casting Director), Jeff Whiting (NYC Director/Choreographer), Kristian Charbonier (Casting Director), Sue Frost (Broadway Producer), etc. Things we will cover include:
- What to include within a theatrical resume (Physical Details, Contact Information, Experience (Stage, Film/Television, etc.), Education/Training, Awards/Honors, and Special Skills) as well as common formatting.
Organization of theatrical credits.
- Headshots - specifically how the individual would like to represent and market themself.
- What should be included within a performer, director, playwright and/or multi-hyphenate website.
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 →
Friday January 24, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am CST
Marriott Salon G (2nd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

9:30am CST

Shakespeare in Motion
Friday January 24, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am CST
Marriott Salon H (2nd Floor)
Using Movement, Physical Repition, and Repitition, Demistify and Activate Your Grasp of Hieghtened Text
Presenters
avatar for Bart Williams

Bart Williams

Professor, Southeast Missouri State U
Bart Williams is professor of Movement, Acting, Stage Combat and Directing at the Dobbins Conservatory at Soutehast Missouri State University. he is a certified Instructor with Dueling Arts International (DAI), Associate Faculty with Theatircal Intimacy Education (TIE), and a Certified... Read More →
Friday January 24, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am CST
Marriott Salon H (2nd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

9:30am CST

The Ever-Shifting Landscape of Actor Training - The National Alliance of Acting Teachers
Friday January 24, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am CST
Marriott Sioux City (3rd Floor)
Join the National Alliance of Acting Teachers in a discussion about the challenges and strategies for training actors in today’s world. Learn about our programming and resources designed to support, inspire and connect you with a community of acting teachers across the country.
Presenters
avatar for Carla Noack

Carla Noack

Natl Assoc of Acting Teachers
Carla Noack is an Associate Professor in the University of Missouri-Kansas City Conservatory, where she teaches the MFA acting progression as well as select undergraduate acting and storytelling classes. Most recently, she played Sarah Bernhardt in Bernhardt/Hamlet, Paige Connor in... Read More →
1 sheet member info email 2025 pdf
Friday January 24, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am CST
Marriott Sioux City (3rd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

9:30am CST

What's Your Vision? Conceptualizing, Communicating, and Collaborating as a Production Team
Friday January 24, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am CST
Marriott Cedar Rapids (3rd Floor)
This panel discussion focuses on ways to develop and communicate production concepts and visualize early ideas from the standpoint of both directors and designers. We will offer insights into our personal processes with perspectives from a director, a scenic designer, and a lighting designer. Additionally, we will take a look at common challenges that occur in this process and how to overcome them.
Presenters
avatar for Jacee Casarella

Jacee Casarella

Co-Volunteer Coordinator, Augustana University
Jacee Casarella is an Assistant Teaching Professor, Resident Designer, and Technical Director at Augustana University in Sioux Falls, SD. She is also the Co-Volunteer Coordinator for Region 5, VP of Social Media & Publications for USITT Northern Boundary, and Production Manager for... Read More →
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 →
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 →
Friday January 24, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am CST
Marriott Cedar Rapids (3rd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

11:00am CST

All In On Chekhov At 10-to-1! Producing THE GULL
Friday January 24, 2025 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
Marriott Waterloo (3rd Floor)
Join the (1) Actor and the Producer/Director to find out more about developing a 1-woman, 10-character World Premiere (and special Festival Performance) of THE GULL; A TRAGICOMEDY FOR ONE, AFTER CHEKHOV, by Zachary Cohn. We will talk about the process for choosing the piece and dig into some of the challenges and rewards we found in the development journey and in facing the daunting task of producing a deconstruction of one of the most popular plays of the last 2 centuries--Anton Chekhov's THE SEAGULL. If you have seen the show (Thursday matinee at festival), or even if you're just curious about how a small professional theatre company functions in these times, please bring your questions and we'll have a lively discussion!
Presenters
avatar for Joan Korte

Joan Korte

TheatreMidwest
As an actor, director, and teacher, Joan Korte is enthusiastic to share her passion for storytelling. She has most recently been involved with TheatreMidwest (IA) where she has appeared in THE GULL; A TRAGICOMEDY FOR ONE--AFTER CHEKHOV, WHEN THE MESSENGER IS HOT, and ATLAS OF MUD... Read More →
avatar for Tom Woldt

Tom Woldt

TheatreMidwest
TOM WOLDT is Founding Artistic Director of TheatreMidwest (2018.) As a Theatre Educator, he was Professor and Chair at Doane College, Simpson College, and University of South Dakota, and had other part-time/guest-artist activities. For KCACTF, Tom is a former Region 5 Chair, National... Read More →
Friday January 24, 2025 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
Marriott Waterloo (3rd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

11:00am CST

Building Spaces of Acceptable Risk: Mental Health Coordination in Theatre
Friday January 24, 2025 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
Marriott Salon A (2nd Floor)
This workshop will introduce students and faculty to the burgoning field of mental health coordination in theatre and film. Attendees will learn how to cultivate rehearsal and performance practices that establish and respect individual boundaries and allow actors to do challenging work without causing mental or emotional harm to themselves. Other topics will include ways to self advocate, character de-rolling, and exercises for regulating the body in the rehearsal space.
Presenters
avatar for Carrie Pozdol

Carrie Pozdol

Intimacy Director
Carrie Pozdol is an actor, director, intimacy choreographer, and mental health coordinator based in eastern Iowa. Carrie has her BA in theatre from Simpson College and has extensive training in intimacy choreography and coordination with Theatrical Intimacy Education (TIE) and Intimacy... Read More →
Friday January 24, 2025 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
Marriott Salon A (2nd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

11:00am CST

Presence, Purpose, and Connection: Audition Technique
Friday January 24, 2025 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
Marriott Salon H (2nd Floor)
How can you grow your sense of presence, purpose, and connection in your audition technique? What stories are your face, voice, and body telling that can support and enhance your overall performance and castability? This session is geared to heighten self-awareness and lower anxiety around the audition process, offering tools for non-verbal self-expression, grounding, and connection.

Presenters
avatar for Carla Noack

Carla Noack

Natl Assoc of Acting Teachers
Carla Noack is an Associate Professor in the University of Missouri-Kansas City Conservatory, where she teaches the MFA acting progression as well as select undergraduate acting and storytelling classes. Most recently, she played Sarah Bernhardt in Bernhardt/Hamlet, Paige Connor in... Read More →
Friday January 24, 2025 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
Marriott Salon H (2nd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

12:30pm CST

AI in Theatre Panel
Friday January 24, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Marriott Salon G (2nd Floor)
Join us for a groundbreaking panel discussion that examines the intersection of artificial intelligence and theatre. This comprehensive workshop brings together theatre practitioners, technologists, accessibility advocates, and audiences to explore how AI is reshaping the landscape of theatrical creation and experience.
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 Jacee Casarella

Jacee Casarella

Co-Volunteer Coordinator, Augustana University
Jacee Casarella is an Assistant Teaching Professor, Resident Designer, and Technical Director at Augustana University in Sioux Falls, SD. She is also the Co-Volunteer Coordinator for Region 5, VP of Social Media & Publications for USITT Northern Boundary, and Production Manager for... Read More →
CH

Colin Hogan

Des Moines Area CC
avatar for Carl Lindberg

Carl Lindberg

College Fair Coordinator, Des Moines Area CC
Carl Lindberg (he/him) is an actor, director, and Professor and Chair of the Theatre & Acting Programs at Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC). He has also served DMACC as a District Chair and a Director of Guided Pathways. He has worked at regional theatres (Steppenwolf (upcoming... Read More →
Festival Leadership
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 →
Friday January 24, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Marriott Salon G (2nd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops

12:30pm CST

Solo Performance Workshop
Friday January 24, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Marriott Salon A (2nd Floor)
During this workshop students will explore the differences between solo performance and larger mainstage productions. In addition students will receive a brief introduction to Performance Studies and will be given prompts towards creating a new solo performance. Please bring a willingness to share and collaborate.
Presenters
avatar for Brandon V. Riley

Brandon V. Riley

University of Missouri
Brandon is an ADB PhD student in Theatre and Performance Studies. Brandon holds an MA in Theatre and Performance Studies, BA in Speech and Theatre and BS(s) Middle Education and Secondary Education. Previously he taught Theatre and served as Theatre Dept. Head at Grand Center Arts... Read More →
Friday January 24, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Marriott Salon A (2nd Floor) 700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
  Workshops
 
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