2018 SETC Convention: Full Schedule

Welcome to one of the nation’s largest theatre conventions! Use this app to browse events, make your own schedule, and connect with fellow attendees. Dates, times and locations subject to change. Sponsored by Arts People - Software for the Performing Arts.

2:30pm CST

Unleash Your "IT" Factor and Nail the Audition!

Whether auditioning for colleges or a Broadway show, it takes MORE than talent and preparation. This interactive session will unlock your personal powerhouse — your "IT" factor.

Presenters

Kandie Smith

Dr. Kandie Smith (Instructor, Florida School of the Arts) has an extensive background in education and the performing arts. A professional actor, singer and voice specialist with over twenty-five years experience, Smith also holds licenses as a Certified One-To-One HeartMath Provider... Read More →

Wednesday March 7, 2018 2:30pm - 3:45pm CST
Riverview - Clipper

Workshop, Acting, Musical Theatre

Interest Area Acting, Musical Theatre
Skill Level General

4:00pm CST

Effective Power Belting: Organic Technique and Effective Characterization

Singers will learn sensations of effective belting technique, then integrate those sensations into the ever-changing fabric of a character's emotional journey. This technique serves the character's emotion in an organic and effective way.

ROOM CHANGE: Please note, this event was originally scheduled to take place in Riverview - Mobile Bay Ballroom. It will now take place in Riverview - Clipper. We apologize for any inconvenience this change in scheduling may cause.

Presenters

Maryann Kyle

In high demand as a coach and teacher of various styles of singing, Maryann Kyle has dedicated her professional life to guiding singers and teachers in their pursuit not only of exceptional singing, but also captivating performance, and she has extensive experience teaching, coaching... Read More →

Wednesday March 7, 2018 4:00pm - 5:15pm CST
Riverview - Clipper

Workshop, Musical Theatre, Voice & Speech

Interest Area Musical Theatre, Voice & Speech
Skill Level General

9:00am CST

Acting and Singing With Archetypes: Part 1

Designed for actors, singers, directors and teachers, this introduction to working with archetypes will creatively engage your voice, body and imagination — providing you with powerful tools for strong and truthful theatrical choices. Follow up with Part 2.

Presenters

Bill Adams

Coordinator of Performing Arts, Nova Southeastern University

Bill J. Adams is an Art Song specialist, opera and musical theatre performer, arts administrator, and associate professor. He is a Master Teacher of Acting and Singing with Archetypes as well as Estill Voice Training. Specializing in character work, Bill J. has performed operatic... Read More →

Allison Hetzel

Associate Professor, University of Alabama

Allison Hetzel is an Associate Professor of Voice and Acting at the University of Alabama. Her vocal coaching credits include the Colorado Shakespeare Festival (2011), and the New York productions of Hell (2012) and Alcestis Ascending (2013). Allison created and performed in a one... Read More →

Marlene Johnson

Marlene Johnson  is an actor, performance coach, and a certified instructor of the Alexander Technique.  Her research interest is the integration of voice and movement to create dynamic presence and kinesthetic receptivity in the actor.  She is a Designated Master Teacher of... Read More →

Thursday March 8, 2018 9:00am - 10:15am CST
Mobile Convention Center - 203 A/B

Workshop, Acting, Musical Theatre, Voice & Speech

Interest Area Acting, Musical Theatre, Voice & Speech
Skill Level Intermediate

9:00am CST

Acting-Driven Singing: Let Your Character Drive Technique!

Be prepared to sing a musical theatre selection! This workshop is for any performer who has had both singing and acting training but needs to merge the two together and who wants to find authenticity in musical performance.

Presenters

Lori Guy

Assistant Professor of Voice/History, U of Mobile

Hailed by Opera News as an â€œexcellent mezzo,â€ Indiana native Dr. Lori Guy has created a diverse career for herself by training and singing in operas, operettas, and musical theater productions. An active teacher, Lori maintains a successful private voice studio, is an assistant professor of voice at The University of Mobile... Read More →

Thursday March 8, 2018 9:00am - 10:15am CST
Riverview - Clipper

Workshop, Musical Theatre

Interest Area Musical Theatre
Skill Level Intermediate

9:00am CST

Song-Spotting: Writing for Musical Theatre

Everyone has the ability to write a song, so find your inner lyricist! Participants learn the function of a song in story-arc and write lyrics for their own song inspired by provided text.

Presenters

Violet Saylor

Program Representative/Teaching Artist, National Theater Institute

Violet Saylor serves as a Program Representative and Teaching Artist for the National Theater Institute at the Eugene OâNeill Theater Center. Violet holds a BFA in Directing with an emphasis in Musical Theatre from Drake University, and is an NTI program alum. In 2011, Violet co-founded... Read More →

Thursday March 8, 2018 9:00am - 10:15am CST
Riverview - Admiral Suite

Workshop, Playwriting, Musical Theatre

Interest Area Playwriting, Musical Theatre
Skill Level General

10:30am CST

Creating Cabaret: Bringing Songs and Ideas Passionately Alive

A post-modern cabaret artist who has performed across the U.S. and sold-out theatres from Paris to Moscow discusses the history of cabaret and his personal approach to creating a powerful mix of passion, ideas and song.

Presenters

Bremner Duthie

Bremner was born in New York. He started singing with Punk Rock bands, moved on to studying and performing Opera, and trained in contemporary vocal music. Bremner has performed across North America and Europe in theatre and in concert, working with chamber ensembles, orchestras and... Read More →

Thursday March 8, 2018 10:30am - 11:45am CST
Mobile Convention Center - 106 A

Workshop, Professional Theatre, Musical Theatre

Interest Area Professional Theatre, Musical Theatre
Skill Level Intermediate

10:30am CST

Monologues: The Compelling Storyteller

Having a great monologue is a mark of a professional actor. Learn how to turn paragraphs of text into a compelling story by using text analysis and basic story structure to develop a complete arc of story. There's a difference between a speech and monologue, and not all monologues are created equal.

Presenters

Sherrie Peterson

Sherrie Peterson, member of Actors Equity Association(AEA) and the Screen Actors Guild(SAG-AFTRA), holds a Master of Fine Arts in Acting from Regent University. She is currently an Asst. Prof. of Theatre at Shorter University, Artistic Director of The Oak Theatre, and a Teaching Artist... Read More →

Thursday March 8, 2018 10:30am - 11:45am CST
Riverview - Windjammer

Workshop, Acting, Musical Theatre

Interest Area Acting, Musical Theatre
Skill Level Intermediate

10:30am CST

Sing Your Act Off!

Dig deep. Use character arc and lyrical analysis to tell a story through your chosen song. Participants will receive coaching on acting the song, focusing on strong choice making and finding the acting/singing connection. Prepare a song to sing, and bring sheet music!

Presenters

Denise Johnson

Actor/Director/Choreographer

Denise Johnson is a professional musical theatre performer, director and choreographer. She is an active member of the New York/Broadway theatre community and is very involved in workshopping new, up and coming musicals. Favorite credits include Hairspray, The Last Five Years, Legally... Read More →

Thursday March 8, 2018 10:30am - 11:45am CST
Riverview - Clipper

Workshop, Musical Theatre

Interest Area Musical Theatre
Skill Level Intermediate

12:00pm CST

CANCELLED: Discover Your Mixed Voice: You've Always Had It

This workshop has been cancelled. We apologize for any inconvenience this change in scheduling may cause.

Thursday March 8, 2018 12:00pm - 12:50pm CST
NA

Workshop, Musical Theatre, Voice & Speech

12:00pm CST

Singing in Style in Musical Theatre

Bring your audition book, and volunteer to participate! Singers who want to learn or fine-tune their musical theatre singing will examine specific techniques and exercises for developing the correct style in musical theatre.

Presenters

Edrie Means

Professional; Co-Founder CCM Vocal Pedagogy Institute, Musical Theatre Styles Specialist, Independent Artist; Shenandoah U

Edrie Means, an active professional actor, is a ”rock star of vocal crossover” and recognized expert in training singers in all vocal styles. Her students have appeared on the radio, National TV, on America’s Got Talent, The Voice, American Idol, Kidz Star USA, Grammy award... Read More →

Thursday March 8, 2018 12:00pm - 12:50pm CST
Riverview - Clipper

Workshop, Musical Theatre

Interest Area Musical Theatre
Skill Level Intermediate

12:00pm CST

Two's Company: The Relationship Between Director and Musical Director

The director and/or choreographer and the musical director must work well together in order to create and maintain a shared vision and successful production. Join us as we discuss the issues facing these two facets of the creative team.

Presenters

Stacy Alley

Head of Musical Theatre, Associate Professor of Musical Theatre/Dance, The University of Alabama

Stacy Alley is Head of Musical Theatre and an Associate Professor at The University of Alabama. She is also a professional director and choreographer whose teaching and artistic credits include work in Denmark, Tanzania, Norway, Scotland, and Chile and throughout the U.S. Stacy is... Read More →

Tom Alsip

Visiting Assistant Professor of Performance, Oklahoma State University

The winner of the 2017 SETC Leighton M. Ballew Graduate Directing Scholarship, Tom is currently a Visiting Assistant Professor of Performance at Oklahoma State University. A graduate of New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts, Tom earned his BFA in theatre and worked for... Read More →

Paul Crook

Executive Director of the Etherredge Center, University of South Carolina Aiken

Paul B. Crook is the Executive Director of the Etherredge Center for the Fine and Performing Arts, on the campus of USC Aiken, where he also serves on the theatre faculty. A long-time SETC member, with service on various committees, Paul is also a director and actor who has worked... Read More →

Terry Moore

Staff Accompanist, The University of Alabama

Thursday March 8, 2018 12:00pm - 12:50pm CST
Battle House - Leinkauf

Workshop, Musical Theatre, Directing

Interest Area Musical Theatre, Directing
Skill Level General

1:00pm CST

Fierce Makeup: Creating Animal Characters

Many popular productions have animal characters, but how do we bring them to life? You can create the illusion of animal traits on human features using various basic stage makeup techniques. Bring your makeup to follow along!

Presenters

Norcostco

Costume Rental Manager, Norcostco Atlanta Costume

Norcostco is a national theatrical supply company specializing in Costume Rental, Theatrical Lighting, and Makeup for Professional Makeup Artists. Norcostco has been proudly serving the performing arts community since 1884.

Thursday March 8, 2018 1:00pm - 2:15pm CST
Riverview - Windjammer

Workshop, Design & Technology, Musical Theatre

Interest Area Design & Technology, Musical Theatre
Skill Level Basic

1:00pm CST

Kick, Guide and Bevel! Dancing Secrets From a Rockette

Learn precision dancing techniques from a former Radio City Rockette — including guiding, spacing and covering off, plus all different kicks including fan, piano keys, strut, flick and the famous eye-high kicks. Session will include warm-up, techniques, combinations and Q&A.

Presenters

Karyn Tomczak

Vicki Jiles Flanagan Distinguished Chair in Dance, Columbus State University

Karyn is currently the Vicki Jiles Flanagan Distinguished Chair in Dance at Columbus State University and has a Master's Degree in Dance Education from Skidmore College. For over 15 years she performed in Broadway productions, all across the U.S. and internationally in many shows... Read More →

Thursday March 8, 2018 1:00pm - 2:15pm CST
Mobile Convention Center - 203 A/B

Workshop, Musical Theatre

Interest Area Musical Theatre
Skill Level Intermediate

1:00pm CST

Let Your Musical Sparkle: The Musical for Educators

Explore how the musical can enrich and refine your students' understanding of theatrical style. See samples of forms and procedures for the educator that will aid the student in the "how to" tools for successful musical presentations.

Presenters

Susan Pike

Independent artist and educator, Professional actor/director and acting coach in Virginia

Ms. McCormack- Pike is a professional actor, director, acting coach and educator in the DC area. Her students have appeared on Broadway (most recently in Book of Morman, Miss Saigon and Tootsie). Ms. McCormack-Pike has an MFA in Acting (Catholic University of America) and is a graduate... Read More →

Thursday March 8, 2018 1:00pm - 2:15pm CST
Riverview - Clipper

Workshop, Musical Theatre, Secondary School, Teaching

Interest Area Musical Theatre, Secondary School, Teaching
Skill Level Intermediate

4:00pm CST

Dance Longer and Stronger: A Scientific Approach

Based on the most recent scientific research, this workshop will provide you with information on how to warm up properly, enhance your dance performance and prevent injury. Please wear comfortable clothes that will allow you to move around.

Presenters

Yenwen Kuo

Yenwen Kuo, a native of Taiwan, started her dance training at the age of three with ballet and traditional Chinese dance. Miss Kuo obtained BFA in dance and choreography from Shenandoah University and MSc in Dance Science from Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance. She has... Read More →

Thursday March 8, 2018 4:00pm - 5:15pm CST
Mobile Convention Center - 107 A

Workshop, Musical Theatre

Interest Area Musical Theatre
Skill Level General

4:00pm CST

Musical Improvisation

Go to the edge. Take the risk. Improvise songs on the spot. Join us for this fun-filled workshop exploring song structure, expressing feelings and ideas musically, and improvising musically as a group.

Presenters

Rex Knowles

Director of theatre programs, Chattanooga State Community College

Rex Knowles and Sherry Landrum head the Professional Actor Training Program at Chattanooga State, a two-year program modeled after the New Actors Workshop (NYC) founded by George Morrison, Mike Nichols, and Paul Sills, where for 10 years they taught improvisation and acting. Their... Read More →

Sherry Landrum

Professional Actor Training Program at Chattanooga State

Thursday March 8, 2018 4:00pm - 5:15pm CST
Mobile Convention Center - 203 A/B

Workshop, Musical Theatre

Interest Area Musical Theatre
Skill Level General

4:00pm CST

Musical Theatre and Stanislavski: The Art of Experiencing

Bring a song and dig into aspects of Konstantin Stanislavski's system. Deepen your musical theatre performance by actually experiencing a song through a character.

Presenters

Chelsea Nicholson

Assistant Professor, Musical Theatre, Samford University

Chelsea Reynolds Nicholson is a SAG-AFTRA actor and theatre educator who hails from Gulf Breeze, FL. She is the Assistant Professor of Musical Theatre at Samford University in Birmingham, AL. She holds an M.F.A. in Acting from the University of Alabama, and a B.A. in Musical Theatre... Read More →

Thursday March 8, 2018 4:00pm - 5:15pm CST
Riverview - Mobile Bay Ballroom

Workshop, Musical Theatre, Acting

Interest Area Musical Theatre, Acting
Skill Level Intermediate

4:00pm CST

Pre-Beat Blastoff: The Moment Before as Launchpad

The pre-beat is the actor's most powerful secret weapon. Blast off with a visceral, actionable pre-beat meant to launch your audition, song or scene work into orbit. Please bring a monologue/song to work.

Presenters

Justin Amellio

Assistant Professor of Theatre, Acting and Directing, Indiana University South Bend

Justin Amellio, currently serving as Assistant Professor of Theatre at Indiana University South Bend, is a proud graduate of the Theatre/Movement Pedagogy MFA program at Virginia Commonwealth University. Justin is an Artistic Associate at Richmond Triangle Players, about to celebrate... Read More →

Thursday March 8, 2018 4:00pm - 5:15pm CST
Battle House - Oakleigh Garden

Workshop, Acting, Musical Theatre

Interest Area Acting, Musical Theatre
Skill Level Intermediate

4:00pm CST

This Pianist Hates Me: Working With Audition Accompanists

Bring audition cuts in and learn how to work with audition pianists. You'll leave knowing how to prepare, what to say, and what to write.

Presenters

Ian LeRoy

Music Director, Creede Repertory Theatre

Ian LeRoy is an NYC-based music director, pianist, and vocal coach. Some favorite music direction credits include: She Loves Me at Creede Repertory Theatre, Jesus Christ Superstar at Near West Theatre, West Side Story at the Bigfork Summer Playhouse, and the All-Ohio production of... Read More →

Thursday March 8, 2018 4:00pm - 5:15pm CST
Riverview - Clipper

Workshop, Musical Theatre, Acting

Interest Area Musical Theatre, Acting
Skill Level General

5:30pm CST

Acting and Singing With Archetypes: Part 2

Designed for actors, singers, directors and teachers, this introduction to working with archetypes will creatively engage your voice, body and imagination —providing you with powerful tools for strong and truthful theatrical choices. See Part 1.

Presenters

David Coolidge

Christine Morris

Christine Morris is an actor, voice coach, teacher and director based in North Carolina. She is an associate professor at UNCG Greensboro and also resident vocal coach at Triad Stage, an Equity theatre producing in both Greensboro and Winston Salem. She has been working with Vocal... Read More →

Thursday March 8, 2018 5:30pm - 6:45pm CST
Riverview - Riverboat

Workshop, Acting, Musical Theatre, Voice & Speech

Interest Area Acting, Musical Theatre, Voice & Speech
Skill Level Intermediate

5:30pm CST

Character in the Score: Finding Greater Depth for Performance

Participants are invited to perform songs or cuts while examining their characters more closely through the specific choices the composer and lyricist make.

Presenters

Jay White

Professor of Voice, Kent State U

Dr. Jay White has held positions at the University of Maryland, the University of Delaware, and DePauw University. Currently, he is Professor of Voice at Kent State University (OH). Dr. White trains voices in classical and commercial music styles for degrees in Vocal Performance... Read More →

Thursday March 8, 2018 5:30pm - 6:45pm CST
Riverview - Mobile Bay Ballroom

Workshop, Musical Theatre

Interest Area Musical Theatre
Skill Level General

8:00am CST

Acting the Song

Experience authentic and fully realized acting through song by investigating the music and lyrics to discover new cues that inform your performance! Bring a 16-32 bar cut.

Presenters

Sherry Landrum

Professional Actor Training Program at Chattanooga State

Jennifer Arbogast Wilson

Professor of Music and Theatre, Professional Actor Training Program at Chattanooga State

Jennifer Arbogast Wilson is a professor at Chattanooga State, where she teaches Applied Voice, Voice and Speech, and Musical Theatre. Jennifer holds a Doctor of Arts degree from Ball State University in Vocal Performance with a secondary emphasis in Speech-Language Pathology. As an... Read More →

Friday March 9, 2018 8:00am - 8:50am CST
Riverview - Clipper

Workshop, Musical Theatre, Acting

Interest Area Musical Theatre, Acting
Skill Level General

9:00am CST

Finding Your Fierce: Contemporary/Commercial Dance

Explore contemporary and commercial dance stylings as they relate to the current theatrical market. Start with a physical warm-up and technical instruction, and wrap up with a fun combination!

Presenters

Roy Lightner

Assistant Professor, U of Alabama Birmingham

Roy Lightner: Director/Choreographer credits include: Transcendence Theatre Company: Best of Broadway Under the Stars, Fantastical Family Night, This Magic Moment, Wine Country Speakeasy (director/creator), Gala Celebration, Oh, What A Night!, Superheroes In Love, and Music of the... Read More →

Friday March 9, 2018 9:00am - 10:15am CST
Mobile Convention Center - 202 A/B

Workshop, Musical Theatre

Interest Area Musical Theatre
Skill Level Intermediate

9:00am CST

How to Practice! Turn Practice Time Into Productive Time

We all know that to get better at performing we are supposed to practice. But do we really know HOW to practice? It's time to evolve your practice beyond endless repetition. Learn 10 foolproof strategies for actors and singers to make your practice time more productive.

Presenters

David Cotter

Resident Music Director, Heidelberg University

Engaging Music Theatre Artist, Inventive Educator, Creative Administrator

Stephen Svoboda

Stephen Svoboda serves as the Head of the Theatre Program at Heidelberg University where he teaches coursework in acting, script analysis, musical theatre direction, play direction, theatre history and criticism. He serves as the Producing Artistic Director of the Gundlach Theatre... Read More →

Friday March 9, 2018 9:00am - 10:15am CST
Riverview - Riverboat

Workshop, Acting, Musical Theatre

Interest Area Acting, Musical Theatre
Skill Level Intermediate

9:00am CST

Sound and Motion: Combined Techniques for Fierce Song Performance

Combining Vocal Process Methodology with Rudolf Laban's concept of Effort Shapes, this amalgam of vocal anatomy and psycho-physical movement will create a new process for musical theatre performance.

Presenters

Adam Howard

Texas Tech University

Adam D. Howard is an American born and British trained actor, singer, playwright, composer, director and music director. He is currently the only American certified teacher in Vocal Process Methodology, developed by Gillyanne Kayes and Jeremy Fisher. Those familiar with the text 'Singing... Read More →

Friday March 9, 2018 9:00am - 10:15am CST
Mobile Convention Center - 106 B

Workshop, Stage Movement, Musical Theatre

Interest Area Stage Movement, Musical Theatre
Skill Level Intermediate

9:00am CST

The Nerve-Proof Audition

This musical theatre audition workshop enables students to focus on the most important aspect of the audition — THE AUDITION — and reduce the apprehension and nerves that often accompany the young performer.

Presenters

Michael Unger

Associate Artistic Director/Director of Education, York Theatre Company

Michael Unger is an opera and theatre director based in New York City. He is Associate Artistic Director and Director of Education at Off Broadway's York Theatre Company. He is also the Producing Artistic Director of NewArts - a theatre and character development program in Newtown... Read More →

Friday March 9, 2018 9:00am - 10:15am CST
Riverview - Clipper

Workshop, Musical Theatre

Interest Area Musical Theatre
Skill Level Advanced

10:30am CST

Healthy Belting: To Belt or Not to Belt?

Students, teachers and performers will get an overview of vocal technique and healthy belting demonstrations in a fun, informal environment. Get up and try it out!

Presenters

Bill Adams

Coordinator of Performing Arts, Nova Southeastern University

Friday March 9, 2018 10:30am - 11:45am CST
Mobile Convention Center - 202 A/B

Workshop, Musical Theatre, Voice & Speech

Interest Area Musical Theatre, Voice & Speech
Skill Level Intermediate

12:00pm CST

Faculty Move and Groove

This is a dance/movement class for faculty members (and grad assistants!) who would like to get acquainted or reacquainted with modern dance technique and theory. Come dressed to move. Techniques will include Limon and Bartenieff Fundamentals.

Presenters

Georgia Southern University

DARRYL KENT CLARK, BA, Columbia College Chicago, MFA SUNY College at Brockport, has danced, acted, sang and choreographed a lot! He is currently in his second year on faculty at SIU-Carbondale, department of Theater.

Friday March 9, 2018 12:00pm - 12:50pm CST
Battle House - Bienville Square

Workshop, Secondary School, Teaching, Musical Theatre, Stage Movement, Professional Development Series

Interest Area Secondary School, Teaching, Musical Theatre, Stage Movement, Professional Development Series
Skill Level General

12:00pm CST

Know Your Vocal Instrument and Achieve Vocal Freedom

Exercises are tailored to release vocal entanglements and release the singer's true and honest voice. "The only reason for mastering technique is to make sure the body does not prevent the soul from expressing itself."

ROOM CHANGE: This event was originally scheduled to take place in Battle House Midtown. It will now take place in Battle House Tree House. We apologize for any inconvenience this change in scheduling may cause.

Presenters

Christian Elser

Executive Director, Glow Lyric Theatre

Dr. Christian Elser is the Co-Founder, Executive Director and resident Music Director of Glow Lyric Theatre in Greenville, SC. He is also Associate Professor of Music at Presbyterian College where he is the Voice Division Director and Director of the PC Musical Theatre & Opera. As... Read More →

Friday March 9, 2018 12:00pm - 12:50pm CST
Battle House - Tree House

Workshop, Musical Theatre, Voice & Speech

Interest Area Musical Theatre, Voice & Speech
Skill Level Intermediate

12:00pm CST

Tango Technique

Anyone with a dance background or simply a passion for dance is welcome to join in as we work through the elements of basic tango dancing: paying attention to partner connection, lead and follow, simple choreography and technique. No flip flops/sandals.

Presenters

Nathan Allen

Associate Professor, Campbellsville U

Nathan John-Paul Allen is an Associate Professor of Theatre at Campbellsville University and the Artistic Director of Town Hall Productions. He holds a BFA in Musical Theatre from Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music, an MA in Theatre Practice from University College Dublin and... Read More →

Friday March 9, 2018 12:00pm - 12:50pm CST
Mobile Convention Center - 202 A/B

Workshop, Musical Theatre, Stage Movement

Interest Area Musical Theatre, Stage Movement
Skill Level Basic

12:00pm CST

Tap It Out!

Learn to do the basics and use terminology correctly, so you can combine them together. Let's flap, slap and shuffle together!

Presenters

Karyn Tomczak

Vicki Jiles Flanagan Distinguished Chair in Dance, Columbus State University

Friday March 9, 2018 12:00pm - 12:50pm CST
Mobile Convention Center - East Ballroom

Workshop, Musical Theatre

Interest Area Musical Theatre
Skill Level Intermediate

1:00pm CST

Broadway Dance Class

Work with the Broadway Director of "Bullets Over Broadway," "Young Frankenstein," "The Scottsboro Boys" and "Big Fish" to learn a dance combination from a Broadway show and get tips on booking the gig on Broadway. All levels welcome. No sandals/flip-flops.

Presenters

Bradley Allan Zarr

Open Jar Institute

Since graduating from The American Musical and Dramatic Academy in New York City, Bradley has appeared on stages all over the country in the national tours of The Drowsy Chaperone (Robert Martin), Spamalot, Catch Me If You Can, Kathleen Marshall’s Anything Goes, and most recently... Read More →

Friday March 9, 2018 1:00pm - 2:15pm CST
Mobile Convention Center - 202 A/B

Workshop, Musical Theatre

Interest Area Musical Theatre
Skill Level General

1:00pm CST

Improvisation Techniques for the Singing Actor

Basic singing improvisation exercises to help young singers get "out of their heads" and into "the moment."

Presenters

Kathy Morath

AMDA College & Conservatory of the Performing Arts

Kathy Morath is an actor, director and educator, specializing in Musical Theatre Performance and Musical Theatre History. She is currently a faculty member at AMDA in New York City. A 25-year veteran of Broadway, off-Broadway and Regional Theatre, Ms. Morath has also directed for... Read More →

Friday March 9, 2018 1:00pm - 2:15pm CST
Battle House - Tree House

Workshop, Musical Theatre, Acting

Interest Area Musical Theatre, Acting
Skill Level Intermediate

1:00pm CST

Nailing Your Dance Audition: I Hope I Get It

Explore movement, participate in a mock audition, and learn choreography as you would in a musical theatre production or college program audition.

Presenters

Kristen Bennett

Alma College, 823

Kristen has been teaching dance in Michigan for over 12 years. Kristen continuities to practice and teach many different styles of dance including jazz, tap, ballet, modern, hip-hop, musical theatre and social dance. Currently entering her tenth year teaching dance at Alma College... Read More →

Friday March 9, 2018 1:00pm - 2:15pm CST
Riverview - Grand Bay Ballroom

Workshop, Musical Theatre

Interest Area Musical Theatre
Skill Level General

1:00pm CST

Professional Audition Round Table: Thoughts From Behind the Table

This is a chance for auditionees to hear directly from the people behind the table on what they're looking for in audition material, dress, callbacks and communication.

Presenters

Valerie Accetta

Head of Musical Theatre, University of Alabama at Birmingham

Valerie Accetta is the Head of Musical Theatre at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. An Equity actress, she played Margy Frake in the First National Tour of Rodgers and Hammerstein's State Fair, starring John Davidson. Other performance credits include Cinderella, The Sound... Read More →

Matt Davenport

Matt Davenport Productions

Ex Producer & Creative Director of Matt Davenport Productions, Matt has been producing, writing & directing for over twenty years. Matt’s career includes writing & directing national tours including On Broadway!, Birth of the Beat, I Get a Kick Out of Cole & American Rhapsody (official theatrical production of the Gershwin Centennial Celebration). Matt produces, writes & directes award-winning shows for numerous t... Read More →

Ginger Poole

Producing Artistic Director, Mill Mountain Theatre

Ginger Poole is a proud member of Actor’s Equity Association and an Associate member of the Stage Directors and Choreographers Union. She has studied, taught, choreographed, and performed throughout the U.S. Originally from Atlanta, she has worked with the N.F.L. and The Atlanta... Read More →

Friday March 9, 2018 1:00pm - 2:15pm CST
Riverview - Jubilee Suite

Workshop, Professional Theatre, Musical Theatre

Interest Area Professional Theatre, Musical Theatre
Skill Level Intermediate

1:00pm CST

Rediscovering Lyrics: Focusing on Text in Musical Theatre Auditions

Bring a memorized musical theatre audition selection and a backing instrumental track on an MP3 player or phone. Geared toward students and educators, we'll focus on the importance of the text in musical theatre songs.

Presenters

David Sollish

Chair of Theatre, Belhaven University

Dr. David Sollish is the Chair of Theatre at Belhaven University and Associate Professor of Musical Theatre. A professional actor and director for more than 30 years, Dr. Sollish has a Ph.D. in Musical Theatre Direction from Bowling Green State University and has worked with the best... Read More →

Friday March 9, 2018 1:00pm - 2:15pm CST
Battle House - Midtown

Workshop, Musical Theatre, Acting

Interest Area Musical Theatre, Acting
Skill Level Intermediate

1:00pm CST

Vocal Boundaries: Singing Successfully Across Styles

Successfully transition your singing voice across styles. Get techniques and tactics for a healthy, marketable approach to singing that will unlock your voice's ability to perform everything from opera to rock music. Come prepared with material to sing.

Presenters

Jeremiah Downes

Assistant Professor of Musical Theatre, West Virginia University

Jeremiah is Assistant Professor of Musical Theatre at West Virginia University. He spent over 15 years as a successful actor on stage in leading roles, world premieres and alongside some of Broadway’s finest both in NYC and regionally. He continues to maintain a private studio for... Read More →

Friday March 9, 2018 1:00pm - 2:15pm CST
Riverview - Clipper

Workshop, Musical Theatre

Interest Area Musical Theatre
Skill Level Advanced

4:30pm CST

Following the Road Signs: Performance Through Song Analysis

Analyze and investigate lyric and musical construction as it relates to acting and vocal choices; and learn how to successfully integrate songwriter's crafting into performance. Come prepared with full songs to work on and perform.

Presenters

Jeremiah Downes

Assistant Professor of Musical Theatre, West Virginia University

Friday March 9, 2018 4:30pm - 5:45pm CST
Riverview - Clipper

Workshop, Musical Theatre

Interest Area Musical Theatre
Skill Level Intermediate

4:30pm CST

Ready for Show Business? Marketing Tools for Actors

Before beginning an acting career in New York or Los Angeles, make sure all your marketing materials meet the industry standard: headshots, resume, reels and more!

Presenters

Shorey Walker

Having worked in the NY & LA Market now for over 25 years, Shorey & Christopher will present you with a wealth of information that you can apply to your own acting & musical theatre career. Shorey Walker has been the Program Coordinator at Actors Connection since 2009, her work as... Read More →

Friday March 9, 2018 4:30pm - 5:45pm CST
Battle House - Leinkauf

Workshop, Acting, Musical Theatre, Career Advancement

Interest Area Acting, Musical Theatre, Career Advancement
Skill Level General

4:30pm CST

What Can I Really Do in 8 Bars?

Learn to select and perform polished 8-bar musical theatre audition cuts. Bring your audition book and be prepared to sing! Appropriate for students and educators.

Presenters

Christianne Roll

Associate Professor of Musical Theatre, Florida Southern College

Dr. Christianne Roll, AEA, is a recognized expert on the female belt voice. She received her BFA in Musical Theatre from NYU and her doctorate from Columbia University. Christianne has performed at the Goodspeed Opera House, the Lucille Lortel Theatre, the York Theatre, and internationally... Read More →

Friday March 9, 2018 4:30pm - 5:45pm CST
Riverview - Mobile Bay Ballroom

Workshop, Musical Theatre

Interest Area Musical Theatre
Skill Level Intermediate

6:00pm CST

Character Choice From Musical Device: Beyond the Words

Find the essence of characterization in musical theatre by examining the structure of music itself. Making the language of music integral to a character's journey. Bring your audition cuts!

Presenters

Brian Osborne

Music Director, Musical Theatre, Reinhardt University

Brian Osborne joined the faculty at Reinhardt University in the fall of 2016 where he is assistant professor, music director of opera and musical theatre and vocal coach. He also serves as music director and vocal coach for the opera program at Georgia State University. He was recently... Read More →

Friday March 9, 2018 6:00pm - 7:00pm CST
Riverview - Mobile Bay Ballroom

Workshop, Musical Theatre, Acting

Interest Area Musical Theatre, Acting
Skill Level Intermediate

6:00pm CST

Knowing Your Essence With a Casting Director

Knowing your essence as an actor allows you to work from a place of power. This workshop will demystify the casting director's process by educating actors about how we see them and the "business of the business." The aim is to empower actors to own who they are. #DoYouKnowHowWeSeeYou

Presenters

Tiffany Wilkie

Director of Theatricals, Performer Stuff LLC.

An Orlando native, Tiffany’s “flair for the dramatic” has been prevalent all her life when she began acting at the age of 5. She’s come a long way from “3rd reindeer from the left” in a Christmas play, and her favorite acting credits include Snoopy in You’re a Good Man... Read More →

Friday March 9, 2018 6:00pm - 7:00pm CST
Mobile Convention Center - 106 A

Workshop, Acting, Musical Theatre

Interest Area Acting, Musical Theatre
Skill Level General

6:00pm CST

The Singing Actor

Bring your audition book to work with two professional actors teaming up to provide hands-on skill-building strategies for song authenticity and connecting your singing voice and acting to enhance your audition and performance.

Presenters

Edrie Means

Professional; Co-Founder CCM Vocal Pedagogy Institute, Musical Theatre Styles Specialist, Independent Artist; Shenandoah U

Susan Pike

Independent artist and educator, Professional actor/director and acting coach in Virginia

Friday March 9, 2018 6:00pm - 7:00pm CST
Riverview - Clipper

Workshop, Musical Theatre, Acting

Interest Area Musical Theatre, Acting
Skill Level Intermediate

6:00pm CST

What Not To Wear: What “"Season"” Suits You

As a follow up to popular past sessions on audition attire, come see what "season" you are and what color suits you. And if you dare to be given a frank assessment, come in your audition outfit and we'll determine if you're a "glamour don't" or not.

Presenters

Janet Gray

Winthrop University

Stephen Gundersheim

Professor, Winthrop University

Stephen Gundersheim received his B.S. in theatre from Northwestern University with a concentration in acting and musical theatre and earned his M.F.A. is in Theatre for Youth from Arizona State University with an emphasis in directing. He is a professor in the Theatre and Dance Department... Read More →

Friday March 9, 2018 6:00pm - 7:00pm CST
Riverview - Windjammer

Workshop, Acting, Musical Theatre

Interest Area Acting, Musical Theatre
Skill Level Intermediate

9:00am CST

Break It Down: Dissecting the Dance Call

Learn original Broadway choreography while figuring out: how to set priorities at a dance call; strategies for showcasing your strengths; and different approaches for picking up choreography quickly. We'll also discuss the Broadway audition process and tips to help you book the show!

Presenters

Denise Johnson

Actor/Director/Choreographer

Saturday March 10, 2018 9:00am - 10:15am CST
Mobile Convention Center - 204 A/B

Workshop, Musical Theatre

Interest Area Musical Theatre
Skill Level Intermediate

9:00am CST

Living Text: Playwriting for Writers, Directors and Performers

Using writing exercises and published plays, we'll explore elements of dramatic texts and their ability to convey action, character and idea. Bring a notebook!

Presenters

Max Reuben

Saturday March 10, 2018 9:00am - 10:15am CST
Battle House - Bienville Square

Workshop, Playwriting, Acting, Musical Theatre

Interest Area Playwriting, Acting, Musical Theatre
Skill Level General

9:00am CST

Partnering in Extremes: Communication With Dance and Combat

Join us to explore the possibilities for dynamic storytelling through the use of dance and stage combat techniques, focusing on the powerful physical communication between partners.

Presenters

Alexis Black

Brianna Larson

Assistant Professor, Arkansas State University

Brianna Lucas Larson is currently an Assistant Professor at Arkansas State University in the Department of Theatre. She teaches dance classes and does movement and choreography work for the department productions. Outside of the usual styles of dance studied for Musical Theatre, Brianna... Read More →

Saturday March 10, 2018 9:00am - 10:15am CST
Mobile Convention Center - 203 A/B

Workshop, Stage Movement, Musical Theatre

Interest Area Stage Movement, Musical Theatre
Skill Level Intermediate

9:00am CST

Wardrobe Malfunction: Backstage Quick Fixes

Was that ripping sound the crotch of your pants? Oh no! My zipper is stuck! I can't go on stage like THIS! Prevention is better than the cure, but when things go wrong with your costume, know what to do. Discover creative solutions to get you through the show without ruining your outfit!

Presenters

Norcostco

Costume Rental Manager, Norcostco Atlanta Costume

Saturday March 10, 2018 9:00am - 10:15am CST
Riverview - Jubilee Suite

Workshop, Design & Technology, Musical Theatre

Interest Area Design & Technology, Musical Theatre
Skill Level Basic

10:30am CST

Three Weeks 'Til Curtain: A Case Study

We'll share a fresh approach to the collegiate summer intensive model, offering tips and tricks for putting up a musical in just 13 rehearsals.

Presenters

Amanda Nelson, Virginia Tech, Associate Professor, Theatre, and Director, MFA Arts Leadership

Amanda directs the M.F.A. program area in Arts Leadership. Before coming to Virginia Tech, Amanda worked 11 years for the world-renowned Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in NYC, where she oversaw membership programs, government relations, corporate sponsorships, and foundation support. Prior... Read More →

Richard Masters

Saturday March 10, 2018 10:30am - 11:45am CST
Riverview - Commodore Suite

Workshop, College/University Theatre, Musical Theatre, Professional Development Series, Teaching

Interest Area College/University Theatre, Musical Theatre, Professional Development Series, Teaching
Skill Level Intermediate

12:00pm CST

The Musical Style of Alan Menken

"Aladdin," "Sister Act," "Newsies" ... what makes Alan Menken's musicals sound so similar? This lecture recital will dissect several of his songs regarding tonal, rhythmic and textual elements. Perfect for students and teachers who are interested in creating an informed performance.

ROOM CHANGE: This event was originally scheduled to take place in RV Commodore Suite. It will now take place in RV Clipper. We apologize for any inconvenience this change in scheduling may cause.

Presenters

Kathryn Voelker

Kathryn Voelker is a professor in the School of Music at Liberty University. Dr. Voelker has . She has also worked extensively as an accompanist, and been in demand as a music director at professional and regional theaters in New York, Colorado, and Pennsylvania. Her doctoral dissertation... Read More →

Saturday March 10, 2018 12:00pm - 12:50pm CST
Riverview - Clipper

Workshop, Musical Theatre

Interest Area Musical Theatre
Skill Level General

1:00pm CST

CANCELLED: Tap In! Basic Rhythm Play and Tap Skills

This workshop has been cancelled. We apologize for any inconvenience this change in scheduling may cause.

Saturday March 10, 2018 1:00pm - 2:15pm CST
NA

Workshop, Musical Theatre

1:00pm CST

Meet the Theatrical Sound Designers and Composers Association!

TSDCA is a professional organization for theatrical sound designers and composers from across the U.S. Learn what we've been doing and how to get involved.

Presenters

Nicholas Drashner

Assistant Professor of Sound Design & Projection Design, Kent State University

Nicholas Drashner is a sound designer, projection designer, composer, and interdisciplinary artist. He is Assistant Professor of Sound Design at Kent State University's School of Theatre and Dance. He holds an MFA in Sound Design for Theatre and Dance, and a BA in Interdisciplinary... Read More →

Shannon Marie O'Neill

Assistant Professor of Sound Design, Louisiana State University

Shannon Marie O'Neill is an Assistant Professor of Sound Design at LSU. She has worked as a sound designer and/or composer for Swine Palace, LSU, the Trollwood Performing Arts School, the Illinois Shakespeare Festival, Illinois State University, and in North Carolina with Hidden Voices... Read More →

Benjamin Stickels

Lecturer; Sound Designer and Audio Engineer, University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Benjamin G. Stickels is a sound designer, audio engineer, consultant, and educator. He serves as a Senior Lecturer on the faculty of the College of Arts + Architecture at the University of North Carolina - Charlotte, where he also serves as the Audio Engineer and Assistant Production... Read More →

Saturday March 10, 2018 1:00pm - 2:15pm CST
Mobile Convention Center - 106 A

Workshop, Design & Technology, Musical Theatre, Career Advancement, Career Advancement

Interest Area Design & Technology, Musical Theatre, Career Advancement, Career Advancement
Skill Level General

1:00pm CST

Trippingly on the Tongue: Musical and Shakespearean Acting

There are surprising similarities between acting in Shakespeare and acting in a musical. Beginners and intermediate performers are welcome! Bring an audition song and/or a short piece of Shakespearean verse; we'll provide some examples as well.

Presenters

Derek Gagnier

Associate Professor, Appalachian State University

Associate Professor of TheatreCoordinator BA Theatre Performance DegreeDepartment of Theatre and Dance

Lars Tatom

KCACTF Region IV - Irene Ryan Coordinator, University of South Alabama

Dr. Lars Tatom is in his sixth year as Chair and Producing Artistic Director at the Univ. of South Alabama/Theatre USA program. A director by trade, he holds an MFA in Directing from UNCG, and a PhD in Shakespearean Direction from Colorado. He has taught and worked all over the globe... Read More →

Saturday March 10, 2018 1:00pm - 2:15pm CST
Mobile Convention Center - 204 A/B

Workshop, Musical Theatre, Acting

Interest Area Musical Theatre, Acting
Skill Level Basic

4:00pm CST

CANCELLED: College Bound: Maximizing Music Theatre Program Auditions

This workshop has been cancelled. We apologize for any inconvenience this change in scheduling may cause.

Saturday March 10, 2018 4:00pm - 5:15pm CST
NA

Workshop, Acting, Musical Theatre

Interest Area Acting, Musical Theatre
Skill Level Basic

4:00pm CST

Find Your Vocal Fingerprint

Working with your individual technical needs and the use of physiological, acoustic and vocal science, we'll find your unique "vocal fingerprint."

Presenters

Matt Morgan

From the most prestigious concert halls and operatic stages to television Matt Morgan has established himself as one of America's most active crossover artists. He spent five seasons as a principle tenor at the New York City Opera starring in such productions as the wildly successful... Read More →

Saturday March 10, 2018 4:00pm - 5:15pm CST
Riverview - Clipper

Workshop, Musical Theatre, Secondary School, Teaching

Interest Area Musical Theatre, Secondary School, Teaching
Skill Level General

4:00pm CST

Soundpainting: Improvisation, Composition and Performance

Performers will learn the gestural compositional language of Soundpainting, which can be used to create improvised performances both in rehearsal and live on stage.

Presenters

Max Reuben

Saturday March 10, 2018 4:00pm - 5:15pm CST
Riverview - Mobile Bay Ballroom

Workshop, Acting, Musical Theatre, Stage Movement

Interest Area Acting, Musical Theatre, Stage Movement
Skill Level General