Friday, May 1, 2009

Project #5: GRADUATE SCHOOL

GRADUATE SCHOOL






Pennsylvania State University


Master of Fine Arts Program - Design and Technology

The strength of our design and technical programs lies in our students'students who are committed to growth, who accept challenge, and who are eager to perform in a program that encompasses both rigorous class work and demanding production experience. Students who leave Penn State with the M.F.A. degree are well prepared to launch their professional careers.

Students in design (scenic, costume, lighting) and scenic technology have, as a common academic core, background and enrichment courses in theatre literature and production. In addition to intensive and extensive course work in the chosen area of emphasis, it is critical for the M.F.A. candidate to have sufficient course work in design and technical areas outside the area of specialization to ensure the capability of understanding and contributing to the collaborative production process.
Structure

Designers and technicians work closely with directors and actors in their corresponding M.F.A. programs. Collaboration is taught in the classroom and fostered in the production program. All M.F.A. candidates share a summer-in-London experience, taking two of the courses required for the degree and being immersed in theatre events from Shakespeare to Eastern European performance art.

Each degree program is specifically dedicated to individual student development and professional training leading to employment. In addition to course work in the academic core and in emphasis-related classes, students are given challenging production assignments appropriate to their areas of interest each semester. Scenic, costume, and lighting designers are expected to design at least one major production in each of the school's major production facilities: The Playhouse, a 450-seat proscenium theatre, and the Pavilion, a 300-seat arena/thrust theatre. Technical directors will serve at least two major productions and may have an opportunity to design. Smaller assignments encourage creative growth in the early stages of the program.

M.F.A. in Lighting Design

The M.F.A. Lighting Design Program includes core classes in dramatic literature, design studio, period research, digital presentation techniques, drafting and CAD skills. Students participate in a summer session in London during the summer of their first year. The School of Theatre houses three theatres and Students design the majority of productions. Students leave school with a professional portfolio well prepared for a career in their chosen field.

Production Opportunities

As audience members, our students have access to one of the oldest University-based performing arts series in the country, and as production students, they can work with professional touring companies in the 2,600-seat Milton S. Eisenhower Auditorium, the 900-seat Schwab Auditorium, or in the 16,000-seat Bryce Jordan Center, which hosts major rock concerts and large public events. Penn State's public broadcast studio, WPSX-TV, provides opportunities to work with television production. Film production courses in the College of Communications offer hands-on experience in film. Pennsylvania Centre Stage, a resident regional summer theatre on the Penn State University Park campus, offers employment opportunities to qualified students, who work with professional designers, cutters, technicians, painters, sound specialists, hair designers, and directors from all over the country.
Faculty

Practical experience and work with a professional faculty are strengths of the Penn State Theatre program. In addition, professional designers, technicians, and craftspeople are often brought in to augment faculty expertise. These visiting artists design productions, give lectures, conduct workshops, hold seminars, and sometimes design specialized portions of shows, such as sound and special effects. Whatever their mission, they always work closely with students, consulting and critiquing work in progress. Students work as assistants to visiting artists, gaining invaluable experience and contacts and the potential for professional work after graduation.
Facilities

The Theatre Arts Production Studios (TAPS) are among the most comprehensive teaching and production facilities in the country. They include classrooms, a lighting laboratory, a CAD lab, and studios for scenery construction, painting, properties, and costume construction. Storage for period costumes used in research is also provided in this building; a major collection of historic lighting equipment is stored in Eisenhower Auditorium.
Professional Liaison

When M.F.A. students finish their programs at Penn State, they are trained practitioners with solid backgrounds combining experience and theory, ready to move into the professional theatre and the performing arts. Many have gone on to become nationally recognized in their fields. Among our graduates are Broadway and off-Broadway designers, assistants, and technicians. Our students' names frequently scroll on television and film credits. Graduates are in place as designers, technical directors, cutters, assistants, property artists, and painters in major regional and university theatres. The broader Penn State network includes working actors, directors, and producers trained with the same care and attention to professional development as are designers and technicians. In moving beyond the academy and into the larger world of theatre, Penn State graduates find a constant and growing professional resource in alumni and guest artists who have worked in Penn State theatres.







Northern Illinois University


Masters of Fine Arts: Specialization in Design and Technology, Lighting Design

Lighting Design

The area of lighting design is centered around a core of courses appropriate to the training of aesthetically sensitive, technically proficient lighting artists for all phases of the theatre.

Course work focuses on functional, expressive, and compositional aspects of light supported by special skill courses in rendering techniques, drafting (including computer-aided paper-work techniques), projection aesthetics, and related technologies.

Special needs of each student will be approached through individualized instruction and supervised design experiences in variety of production styles and performance spaces on and off campus.

Apply

The Graduate School tries to make the application process as easy as possible. You can apply as a degree-seeking student in one of two ways.

We prefer that you submit an application online. Online applications speed our ability to reply to you and ensure the accuracy of our records. Online applications over our secure server require a credit card to pay the $30 application fee. Students with a GRE fee-waiver must obtain and submit a signed copy of said waiver from the Financial Aid department to be eligible for a waiver of the application fee. Other applicants with waiver codes can use the online application, too.

Alternatively, you can visit the Graduate School and complete an application.

GRE scores, transcripts, applications, and letters of recommendation should be sent to the Graduate School, 223 Adams Hall, DeKalb, IL 60115. Additional materials, including writing samples and applications for assistantship, for example, should be sent to the department to which you wish to apply.


Common Core of Courses

All students in the M.F.A. share a common core of courses. Every semester each student enrolled in the M.F.A. program participates in a production and credit is given through the performance and production course. Students may enroll in this course six times. A knowledge of the literature of theatre is of utmost importance. Script Laboratory, THEA 576, explores a number of scripts each semester reaching across genres. Various methods of script analysis are used to understand the scripts from a production point of view.

Each student is also required to participate in theatre study and work outside the students designated area and outside the school. Internships are an ideal way to meet some of those requirements. The school can frequently assist the student in finding an appropriate internship program through its many regional, national, and international connections with other performing arts groups. Course credit may be given by the school for an internship.





Illinois State University


MFA in Theatre: Lighting Design

The Graduate Lighting Design Program at Illinois State University is a three-year professional training program which combines rigorous course work with consistent opportunities for realized designs.
Curriculum

The plan of study for graduate lighting design candidates is tailored to meet the needs of the individual student. Students participate in a graduate lighting design seminar every fall semester with rotating topics including theatrical performance, Shakespeare, opera, and dance. MFA lighting design students also receive training in computer drafting, rendering (both in traditional media and digital imaging), technology, research, and portfolio development. Non-design courses may include history, theory, and director/designer collaboration. Students are also encouraged to take advanced coursework in scenic, costume, and sound design.

More detailed information on program requirements and course descriptions can be found in the Graduate Catalog.
Design Opportunities

A major goal for the program is to develop a strong portfolio of realized production designs and project work related to the courses in the plan of study. Design assignments are made every semester, with students given the opportunity to work in different styles and periods. Two different venues provide proscenium, thrust and arena configurations. The graduate lighting design student can expect to design two shows per year, as well as work as a master electrician or assistant lighting designer on other productions. Graduate students may also assist faculty on School of Theatre productions or outside professional projects.
Admission

To apply to the MFA program, first fill out the Graduate Admission Application. Also, at the Graduate School Web site, you will find information about required transcripts and fees that should accompany your application. Please review program-specific admission requirements and the application process on our graduate program pages or in the Graduate Catalog.

Prospective students must meet with head of the Graduate Design program or another designated representative for an interview before entrance will be granted. Interviews are regularly held at U/RTA sites in Chicago and New York or on the Illinois State University campus.

Specific questions may be addressed to Julie Mack, Professor of Lighting Design.
Professional Practice

The Illinois Shakespeare Festival offers MFA students the opportunity to assist accomplished professional designers from around the country. Graduate students may also seek out internship possibilities in professional theatres and shops nationwide. Students are encouraged to pursue professional work during the summers to gain new insights and build networks.
Recruitment

Illinois State University admits a limited number of graduate students to the lighting design program every year. The School of Theatre seeks candidates with strong artistic ability, disciplined intellectual drive, and a desire to work in a collaborative atmosphere.
Success for Recent Graduates

Despite the newness of the program in lighting design at Illinois State University, recent graduates are already making their mark in the professional world. Recent graduates of the design program hold positions with Arena Stage, Barbizon Lighting, the State University of New York/Oswego, and Coastal Carolina University. For more information about School of Theatre graduates, visit our alumni page.

Project #5: TEACHING

TEACHING


Secondary Level

What are the basic requirements for becoming a teacher in Texas?

*

You must have a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. Texas institutions do not offer a degree in education. Every teacher must have an academic major, as well as teacher training courses. The only exemption from the degree requirement is for individuals seeking Career and Technology certification to teach certain courses, such as welding or computer-aided drafting.

*

You must complete teacher training through an approved program. These programs are offered through colleges and universities, school districts, regional service centers, community colleges, and other entities.

*

You must successfully complete the appropriate teacher certification tests for the subject and grade level you wish to teach. For a list of the certification tests and information on which tests are required, click here.

*



A teacher who holds an appropriate Texas classroom teaching certificate and a bachelor's degree may add classroom certification areas by successfully completing the appropriate certification examination(s) for the area(s) sought. Certification by examination is not available for:

* initial certification;
* career and technology certification based on skill and work experience;
* a class of certificate other than classroom teacher (e.g. School Counselor, Principal, Superintendent, Learning Resources/School Librarian, Educational Diagnostician);
* a certificate for which no certification examination has been developed.

The first step toward additional certification by examination is passing an appropriate subject matter test. To access the appropriate websites for test registration, click here.

To apply online for additional certification based on examination after you have passed a test, click here.

A+ Texas Teachers: Alternative Certification

Steps to Becoming a Certified Teacher
Our Streamlined Process is Your Fast Track to Finding a Job!
Step 1: Get Started
Step 2: Employment Step 3: Internship

Review the 5 Topics -- Then Apply!
Eligibility

* Four-year Bachelor's degree from an accredited university (or college senior)
o All majors welcome.
o Foreign degrees accepted (Non-native speakers of English must take and pass the TOEFL exam for English proficiency—contact us for details).
* GPA of 2.5 or higher
* You will not have to go back to college for classes.


Content Test

* We offer certification in all subject areas. We'll help you select the subject area that gives you the best chance of being hired and matches your interests.
* After choosing your certification area(s), you will need to immediately sign up for the corresponding state content test (TExES).
* Almost every school district will require you to pass this test before they will hire you.
* We'll help you decide which test to take, how to take it, and when.


Cost

* We have among the lowest overall cost at $4,195 with no hidden fees. This price includes a professional coach, as well as all training materials.
* We have the lowest up-front costs at just $395 to start training. We earn the remaining balance ($3,800) only after you have become a successful teacher. That's our commitment to you.
* No Application Fee

* Recent graduates pay $195 up-front! Click here for more details.
* Houston ISD interns add $300.
* The state of Texas charges various fees. Click here for more details.

Training

* Rolling admissions let you get started now.
* Our flexible and efficient schedules will meet your needs.
* You will receive preparation for the classroom and the skills necessary for success. Our training program features:
o Content-specific curriculum in bilingual and special education
o Standardized curriculum aligned to the TEKS
o Face-to-face blended with online instruction delivers a dynamic and convenient training program
o Trainers who are leading specialists in their fields
* No deadlines and only $395 to begin.


Letter of Acceptance

* School districts require you to have a letter of acceptance before they will allow an interview.
* A Program Advisor will work with you to get your letter to you as soon as possible.




Community Colleges


Lee College
Theater Instructor/Technical Director
Institution: Lee College
Location: Baytown, TX
Category:

* Faculty - Fine and Applied Arts - Theatre and Dance
* Admin - Museum & Arts Administration

Posted: 10/13/2008
Application Due: Open Until Filled
Type: Full Time
Description:
Essential job functions include, but are not limited to:

* Design and execute all technical areas for theatre productions including set design, costume, sound, and lighting construction, in addition to maintenance for all Lee College theatre productions in conjunction with the Director of Theatre.
* Maintain facilities, including VPA division and departmental shop, lighting room, and booths.
* Supervise student assistants and serve as faculty sponsor on trips.
* Share in recruiting responsibilities, as well as curriculum planning and student advising.
* Teach technical and introductory theatre classes which may include elementary and advanced stagecraft, introduction to costume, and principles of theatrical makeup.
* Other teaching responsibilities may include coursework for a new film certificate.
* Oversee & advise students in the AA-Technical theatre.
* Night, weekend, and/or off-campus assignments will be required.
* Strong communication skills are required, as well as the ability to work with a wide variety of personnel associated with the fine and performing arts.
* Position includes the support of all VPA programs with technical "services" such as lighting and sound changeovers, load in and load out of scenery, risers, and orchestra shell.
* This person will also work closely with a building manager or facilities coordinator to deal with technical/scheduling issues related to all events that take place within the Performing Arts Center.
* Facility related duties include purchase, organize, and maintain inventory of the theatre shop, including tools and resources for productions and events.
* Create, implement, and maintain strict safety standards for ALL occupants of the scene shop, including a "safety course" for ALL users of the equipment.
* Supervise scenery construction for theatre department.
* Supervise implementation of all technical aspects of productions for theatre department, including the management of appropriate crews for productions and events.
* Manage technical budget for theatre department productions and scene shop.
* Advise and guide both departmental and non-departmental "clients" to make appropriate plans for the care and use of theatrical facilities and equipment.
* Manage and maintain all theatrical systems in the facility.
* Oversee any necessary arrangements for outside labor, equipment, or supplies.

Qualifications:
Master's degree with 18 graduate hours in theatre or a related field, theatre experience evidenced through professional work, community productions, college internships or the like, and must be able to work as part of a team, as well as attend to details.



Senior Colleges and Universities


Ashland University
Scene and Lighting Design, Visiting Assistant Professor
Institution: Ashland University
Location: Ashland, OH
Category:

* Faculty - Fine and Applied Arts - Theatre and Dance

Posted: 03/13/2009
Application Due: Open Until Filled
Type: Full Time
Ashland University, Ashland, Ohio, Department of Theatre seeks applicants for a visiting one year Assistant Professor of Scene and Lighting Design, beginning August 2009.

Primary responsibilities include teaching courses in Lighting Design, Stage Management and Theatre Aesthetics. The designer will function as Scene and Lighting Designer for a four show departmental season and supervise student designers and stage managers.

The position requires the ability to design and execute designs. Additional expertise in sound design is desirable. The candidate should have demonstrated commitment to teaching and be able to show evidence of teaching effectiveness. MFA required and professional experience is desired.

Screening will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Send a letter of application, curriculum vitae, and three letters of reference to Dr. Teresa Durbin-Ames, Design Search Chair, Department of Theatre, Ashland University, 401 College Avenue, Ashland, OH 44805.

Friday, April 17, 2009

Project #5: THE PROFESSION

THE PROFESSION

ArtSearch

ELECTRICIAN


MUHLENBERG SUMMER MUSIC THEATRE, an Equity LOA theatre in Pennsylvania's beautiful Lehigh Valley, is seeking an electrician with the following responsibilities: execution of lighting plots, hang, focus, and maintenance of equipment, work at heights in excess of 40 feet, ability to lift 50 lbs, operate/program light board (exp. with ETC Ion helpful) during rehearsals and performances, and assist with shop carpentry as needed. Possible season includes The Sound of Music and Forever Plaid, and a show for young audiences. Employment from May 18th - July 28th; competitive salary; housing provided. Applicants should send a letter of interest and a resume to boxoffice@muhlenberg.edu. Visit www.summerbroadway.org for more information.
backstagejobs.com

BackstageJobs

Weathervane Playhouse Seeks All Technical Staff

The Award winning WEATHERVANE PLAYHOUSE, Ohio's oldest professional summer stock theatre seeks staff for its 2009 Season. Positions available: Costume Designers, Lighting Designer, ALD/ME, ATD/Shop Foreman, Box Office, Props/Scenic Charge, Sound Designer, TD/Scenic Designer, Production Stage Manager. Also offering paid internships in costumes, stage management, carpentry, lighting, sound, and arts administration. Particularly looking for well-rounded theatre artists who are looking for a highly professional and challenging experience. All positions are paid and include housing (high speed internet, cable, and AC) and gym membership. Contracts run from 5/21/09-8/9/09 Please visit our website at www.weathervaneplayhouse.org for more information. Please send resumes and cover letters via E-mail to Matthew@matthewtrombetta.com or to Matthew Trombetta, Managing Artistic Director P.O. Box 607 Newark, OH 43058. Email submissions preferred.



Backstage Jobs




Master Electrician/Ld


The Position:
The Stage Assistant II/Master Electrician/Lighting Director acts as lighting crew head for Season and rental productions. The qualified candidate shall perform all of the following duties under the supervision of the Technical Director and Assistant Technical Director, which include, but are not limited to: light hangs and focus of tour plots; designing show lighting for Season events as required, operating experience of ETC consoles and dimmer racks; Adapting house light plot to for various theatre, opera, meetings, choral concerts, dance, symphony, jazz, country, pop, variety shows and city events; maintain and repair lighting equipment; be responsible for activities of assigned crew members. Additional duties may include, but are not limited to: assisting audio set up, unloading/loading trucks and theatre maintenance.

Minimum Qualifications:
The ideal candidate will have two years of full time professional experience as a lighting designer or master electrician, or a combination of relevant experience and education; the ability to work and interact well with a diverse group of people; must have a "can-do" attitude with flexibility; must possess a valid Driver’s License. Must be willing to work extended hours on week days, week ends, evening hours and holidays.






BackstageJobs



Lighting Director


Theatre degree required and minimum of 2 years professional experience. Must have experience with the ETC Eos and moving lights. This job is for the summer season and will change weekly. The venue is multi-purpose performance space and will cover all genres of entertainment:bands,orchestras,theatre, dance,opera and everything in between. Housing included.

Friday, March 20, 2009

Project #4: Unconventional Theatre

1. Title of Production: Old West
Producing Theatre Company: ArcTisTics
Performance Dates: November 8, 2008
Key Artists: Director-Cristina Masoliver

Picture with Caption:

"Media Credit: Courtesy of ArcTisTics
Gabe Rael, left, Philip Torres, center, and Juanita Romero from ArcTisTics will perform in the play "Old West" at the KiMo Theatre on Saturday."

Link:

My Own Words: This show is unconventional because of it's casting choices. The cast is comprised of actors and mentally handicapped actors.

2. Title of Production: "Twelfth Night"
Producing Theatre Company: the artists of the Theatricum Botanicum
Performance Dates: August 31-October 20, 2001
Key Artists: Director-Susan Angelo
Writer-William Shakespeare

Quote: "It's blessed with an excellent piece of unconventional casting but weighed down by an equally striking miscasting."
Link:

My Own Words: There is unconventional casting in this performance as well, the director made the choice of casting a dwarf as Feste. A few lines make this choice a little comedy of itself, while throwing sight gags at the man's height.

3. Title of Production: "A Streetcar Named Desire"
Producing Theatre Company: Roundabout Theatre Company
Performance Dates: March 26, 2005-July 3, 2005
Key Artists: Director-Edward Hall
Writer- Tennessee Williams
Blanche DuBois-Natasha Richardson
Stanley Kowalski-John C. Reilly
Stella Kowalski-Amy Ryan
Mitch-Chris Bauer

Quote: "Rather than attempting the impossible feat of casting another Brando...Edward Hall has opted for a totally against the grain Stanley."
Link:

My Own Words: Again, unconventional casting was used in this production. Having such an icon as Marlon Brando precede you in a role is daunting, but then to also know you're not the typical body type/stature that most every one imagines in that role....the result can be quite overwhelming.

4. Title of Production: "PAY UP"
Producing Theatre Company: Pig Iron Theatre Company
Performance Dates: September 2, 2005-September 17, 2005
Key Artists: Director-Dan Rothenburg
Writer-Pig Iron Theatre Company
Robert Quillen Camp
Actors-thirty-five members from the Pig Iron Theatre Company

Picture:




















Caption: "A site-specific, choose-your-own adventure performance installation about buying and selling everything under the sun."
Link:

My Own Words:

5. Title of Production: "The Boys Next Doors"
Producing Theatre Company: Mixed Blood and Interact Theatre
Performance Dates: December 4 - January 26
Key Artists: Writer-Tom Griffin

Quote: "It's a risk to put on a play about the mentally handicapped and doubly so to have mentally handicapped actors star in the show, but Mixed Blood and Interact Theatres' unusual production of Tom Griffin's 1986 play The Boys Next Door reaps huge dividends from blending an ensemble of mentally challenged and professional actors."
Link:

My Own Words:

Friday, February 20, 2009

Project #3: Too Hot to Handle

  1. NYC Today

Picture:


What: "My First Time"

Where: New World Stages

When: July 12, 2007- OpenEnded

Who: Kathy Searle
Marcel Simoneau
Dana Watkins
Cydnee Welburn

Ken Davenport

Link: http://www.myfirsttimetheplay.com/about.htm

Summary: This play is controversial because it takes stories from real first times and airs it on the stage. The director uses a projection at the end of the show to say 'this isn't a life changing event', but some of the stories done on stage are about incest and rape which in my opinion are very life changing. This show has been called vulgar, provocative, phenomenal, erotic and political.

  1. Naked Broadway

Picture:http://www.nedgallagher.com/journal/images/equus.jpg



What: Equus

Where: Broadhurst Theatre

When: September 26, 2008

Who:

Link: http://theater2.nytimes.com/2008/09/26/theater/reviews/26equu.html

Summary: “Equus” features a moment involving a naked boy and a horse. For many hearing this, not even seeing the play or knowing what it is about, they automatically think of zoophiliac actions.

  1. Gay Broadway

Picture: http://www.snapproductions.com/IMAGES/season2001/corpus_christi/patricia_josh.jpg



What: ''Corpus Christi,''

Where: Manhattan Theater Club

When: October 14, 1998

Who: Manhattan Theater Club, Lynne Meadow, artistic director; Barry Grove, executive producer

Link: http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=980CE3DE143AF937A25753C1A96E958260&sec=&spon=&&scp=5&sq=%22corpus%22%20mcnally&st=cse

Summary: This show is seemingly innocent and, deemed by numerous reviews, harmless. The only reason for controversy of this gay show is the main character involved, Jesus. In this show Jesus, as well as his disciples, are portrayed as gay. There are sex scenes in the show, but from reviewer’s standpoints they were heterosexual sex scenes. The main hoopla of debate concerning this show is that Jesus is gay.

  1. Racist Broadway

Picture: http://www.classicaltheatreofharlem.org/images/header-blacks.jpg




What: Jean Genet's The Blacks

Where: St. Marks Playhouse

When: May 5, 1961

Who: the artists of the St. Marks Playhouse

Link: http://theater2.nytimes.com/mem/theater/treview.html?html_title=&tols_title=THE%20BLACKS%20(PLAY)&pdate=19610505&byline=By%20HOWARD%20TAUBMAN&id=1077011428922

Summary: This show deals with peoples’ hatred of the word “black”. This show uses an all black cast; the “white roles” are played by African Americans with white masks. This was done to show that “the illusion of their whiteness is meant to be transparent.” This show was written to show the problems the community has with a word, a color, and a race of people.

  1. Raided or Closed

Picture: http://www.hourglassgroup.org/PLEASUREMAN.jpg


What: "The Pleasure Man" by Mae West

Where: The Biltmore, at 261 West Forty-seventh Street

When: October 1, 1928

Link: http://www.playbill.com/reference/theatre_info/2151.html

http://emol.org/film/archives/west/

Summary: This show was closed by the police after only one showing because of the lurid content that shocked the audiences. The main character was castrated and dies under the knife of his “surgery”. This and the “surgery” being performed by a brother of a woman this main character has impregnated, and cares nothing for, and is watched by a largely transvestite crowd.

  1. Arrested

Quote: "As described in Becoming Mae West, the play included "prostitutes caught in arousing embraces, guns, knockout drinks, a jewelry heist, cops, an offstage suicide, bribery, and the threat of a shootout.""

What: "Sex" by Jane Mast (Mae West)

Where: Daly's Sixty-third Street Theatre

When: April 27, 1926

Who: The cast assisting her…” (Mae West) “…was composed for the most part of unknowns…”

Link: http://theater2.nytimes.com/mem/theater/treview.html?html_title=&tols_title=SEX%20(PLAY)&pdate=19260427&byline=&id=1077011431378

http://www.answers.com/topic/mae-west

Summary: This was considered controversial because of several sex scenes. Mae West, and the entire cast, was arrested on charges of obscenity. This play was considered “A crude, inept play, cheaply produced and poorly acted….” It gave for a cheap thrills, but was considered indecent.

  1. NEA 4 (National Endowment for the Arts)


Picture:


What: "Dress Suits for Hire" by Holly Hughes

Where: Interart Theater

When: February 3, 1988

Who: Split Britches Company

Link: http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=940DE5DF153BF930A35751C0A96E948260

Summary: This show was controversial because of the homoeroticism on-stage between two female characters; one being a comfortable femme fatale, in knowing and embracing her sexuality, while the other is not acknowledging her preference. It makes for a witty and dramatic show.

  1. Regional Theatre

Picture:

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What: "Beclch" by Rochelle Owens

Where: Theatre of the Living Arts in Philadephia, PA

When: February 1967

Who: The players of the Theatre of the Living Arts

Link: http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,840836-1,00.html

Quote: Two of the female trustees of this theatre say that if shows of this caliber continue the only attendees of the theatre will be "...junkies, delinquents, potential suicides and some college kids."

Summary: This production was controversial because of the violence and sexual scenes that happened. The violence was of the main female character that beats a child, sacrifices a goat, and eats the remains. The sexual scenes include the dancing in the script that not only mimic the act but with the chosen costumes it seems as though the women are truly naked. This show has been called "theatre of cruelty" and aptly so.





College/University

Picture:


What: "Sister Mary Ignatius Explains It All for You"

Where: Wendy Kurka Rust Flexible Theater, Southeast Missouri State University

When: Oct. 29 to Nov. 2, 2008

Who: Southeast Missouri State University's River Campus

Link:

http://www.semissourian.com/article/20081109/NEWS01/711099954/0/news01

Summary: The show produced has been claimed a satirical commentary on western religion. There were complaints that this show wasn’t funny, nor intelligent and not suitable for performance. There were objections that this show wasn’t sensitive to people in the community, nor to season ticket holders. It ridicules certain peoples religion and they aren’t ready, perhaps nor capable, to handle such joking.

10. High School
What show:
The Laramie Project
Where:
Grandfield, Oklahoma
Grandfield ISD
When: March 5, 2009
Who: Debra Taylor

"
Debra Taylor was suspended for continuing with a class production of "The Laramie Project" as part of the ethics and street law class at the high school."

http://texomashomepage.com/content/fulltext/?cid=34512

"By penalizing this teacher for trying to teach students that they can have a disagreement with another human being and NOT have to kill them, Mr. Turlington is doing nothing but advocating the senseless violence against a class of people that he has a problem with. "

http://www.examiner.com/x-4158-Austin-Gay-Parenting-Examiner~y2009m3d6-Teacher-suspended-over-production-of-The-Laramie-Project


My Own Words:
What seems to be the case in this situation is that the school board members have made a decision without knowing all the facts. The school board believes the show to be about gay rights activism and condoning violence against fellow human being; however, that is not the case. The teacher and the students and the parents of the students are rightly outraged because of the actions that are being taken against their teacher.

Friday, February 6, 2009

Project #2: ANGELS IN AMERICA: PART I: MILLENNIUM APPROACHES

Option #2

1. The Stage Production Before it Moved to Broadway (pre-1993)

Playwright Scales Dramatic Heights
by David Patrick Stearns, USA TODAY, June 26, 1991, Wednesday, FINAL EDITION

http://www.lexisnexis.com.unx1.shsu.edu:2048/us/lnacademic/results/docview/docview.do?docLinkInd=true&risb=21_T5788579127&format=GNBFI&sort=RELEVANCE&startDocNo=1&resultsUrlKey=29_T5788579130&cisb=22_T5788579129&treeMax=true&treeWidth=0&csi=8213&docNo=1

"With a battery of special effects, director David Ira Goldstein combines a serious tone with the wacky grotesqueness of the old TV show The Addams Family."

This is a short review, it gives a quick summary of the play. This reviewer sings praises of Kushner while giving a unique comment to the director.

2. The Original Broadway Production (1993)

Soaring "Angels in America"//Ethereal epic of dissolution takes flight on Broadway
by David Patrick Stearns, USA TODAY, May 5, 1993, Wednesday, FINAL DESTINATION

http://www.lexisnexis.com.unx1.shsu.edu:2048/us/lnacademic/results/docview/docview.do?docLinkInd=true&risb=21_T5788616742&format=GNBFI&sort=RELEVANCE&startDocNo=1&resultsUrlKey=29_T5788616750&cisb=22_T5788616749&treeMax=true&treeWidth=0&csi=8213&docNo=1

"But director George C. Wolfe has taken the best from the Los Angeles production, shored up the weaker areas and delivered a work that unfolds with such fleetness, you wish there weren't intermissions..."

This reviewer again delivers a short review of this production. This review consists of a compliment to the director, a judgement on the acting performances, and a few compliments to Tony Kushner.

3. A Non-NYC-Based Professional Production (since 1993)

Theatre:
Angels in America. Part One: Millennium Approaches

by James Marland, 28 April 2008, Media-Culture Reviews

http://reviews.media-culture.org.au/modules.php?name=News&file=article&sid=2538

"...Alex Galeazzi has directed an impressive adaptation of Kushner’s extraordinarily complex text."

This review delivers a summary of the play, a description of set and projections used during this production. The acting choices, directing and technical choices are observed. This reviewer was quite subjective in this re-telling of his experience

4. A College Production (anytime)

K-College theater hits most notes of 'Angels in America' just right

by Mark Wedel, Special to the Gazette, May 16, 2008

http://blog.mlive.com/kzgazette/2008/05/kcollege_theater_hits_most_not.html

"...the cast and crew of Kalamazoo College's Festival Playhouse hit most of the many notes just right, giving the three hours a moving emotional core."

The reviewer praises Tony Kushner on his script. This review covers the look of the set, the prop mishaps, and the scene changes. The casting and acting are judged and found acceptable if not exemplary, in the reviewer's eyes.

5. The HBO Mini-Series (2003 Film Version)

Free RN patches or a pen when you join or renew news campaigns media reviews nurse-driven media research-sources Join now and receive three free RN patches Free RN patches or a pen when you join or renew Join our Grey's Anatomy campaign! Join our Grey's Anatomy campaign! Join our House campaign! Join our ER campaign! press room FAQs Email Print about us contact us our donors please donate become a member chapters discussion forums archives search Angels in America (2003)
by Harry Jacobs Summers

http://www.nursingadvocacy.org/media/films/angels.html

"The six-hour movie is a dazzling exploration of faith, politics and sexuality in the United States soon after the start of the AIDS era."

This review gives a summary of the play, tells of directing and acting choices and discusses problems this viewer had with certain aspects of this production. One of the points of this review is to discuss the light in which nurses are portrayed.

Sunday, February 1, 2009

Project #1: Professional Theatre--Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park

Emma
by Paul Gordon

"....enchanting new musical..."
http://cincyplay.com/shows/Details.aspx?performanceNumber=3933


"
Paul Gordon's romantic musical..."
http://www.playbill.com/news/article/116040.html

Love Song
by John Kolvenbach

"This quirky romantic comedy..."
http://cincyplay.com/shows/Details.aspx?performanceNumber=3938

"John Kolvenbach's American play is a Jungian comedy."
http://www.dramatists.com/cgi-bin/db/single.asp?key=3927

I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change
by Joe Di'Pietro and Jimmy Roberts

"...smash hit musical comedy..."
http://cincyplay.com/shows/Details.aspx?performanceNumber=4198

"The love-happy hit musical I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change..."
http://www.theatermania.com/new-york/shows/i-love-you-youre-perfect-now-change_976/

Blackbird
by David Harrower

"Blackbird is a provocative, no-holds-barred drama..."
http://cincyplay.com/shows/Details.aspx?performanceNumber=4269

"...
the most powerful drama..."
http://www.dramatists.com/cgi-bin/db/single.asp?key=3892

The Foreigner
by Larry Shue

"...this side-splitting and entertaining comedy..."
http://cincyplay.com/shows/Details.aspx?performanceNumber=3946

"
An inspired comic romp..."
http://www.dramatists.com/cgi-bin/db/single.asp?key=1181

Last Train to Nibroc
by Arlene Hutton

"This engaging and endearing, old-fashioned love story..."
http://cincyplay.com/shows/Details.aspx?performanceNumber=4306


"
...this simply staged romance..."
http://www.dramatists.com/cgi-bin/db/single.asp?key=2897

Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde
by Jeffrey Hatcher

"...this riveting and fiendishly clever thriller."
http://cincyplay.com/shows/Details.aspx?performanceNumber=3950

"
The dark intensity of the drama..."
http://www.dramatists.com/cgi-bin/db/single.asp?key=3985

Marry Me a Little
by Stephen Sondheim, Craig Lucas, and Norman Rene

"...this inventive musical revue..."
http://cincyplay.com/shows/Details.aspx?performanceNumber=4343

"...a charming and bittersweet tale of love, loneliness and survival..."
http://www.mtishows.com/show_detail.asp?showid=000050

Fables
by Colleen Neuman

"
Hysterical fables..."
http://cincyplay.com/shows/Children_Series/Details.aspx?performanceNumber=4720

"...
humorous new fables..."
http://news.mainetoday.com/updates/036939.html

Noonie's Masterpiece in Purple
by Lisa Railsback

"...the humorous and bittersweet story..."
http://cincyplay.com/shows/Children_Series/Details.aspx?performanceNumber=4731

"...Comedy/Drama..."
http://www.dramaticpublishing.com/product_info.php?products_id=1065