Keepin
Issue 5 - March 2019
Keeping the Light On By: Christina Kirk Chair, Department of Theatre & Dance
I
had the good fortune of spending my fall 2018 sabbatical touring the country connecting with alumni in one-on-one meetings and in hub gatherings in New York, Columbus, LA, and Chicago. Alumni from every decade dating back to the 60’s and representing every degree plan shared stories, ideas, and information with one another. Throughout these conversations, I came to recognize a set of common core values that have not changed in over 50 years: a passion for living a full and realized life; an authentic engagement in making the world better; and a commitment to lifelong friendships. The faculty and staff have changed over the years and the degree plans and curricula continue to shift, but the core Otterbein experience remains the same. It was exciting to see old friends connect and to watch new friendships being forged. Many voiced surprise at how meaningful it was for them to reconnect with their past and to take stock of where they are now and how their Otterbein experience has informed their life journeys.We want to expand these hubs to other locales: Texas, Florida, Las Vegas, Minneapolis-St. Paul. I’m sure someone reading this article is saying to themselves, “What about creating a hub where I am?” My response: “Go for it!” I’d love to see Otterbein hubs all over the country! “Let’s Keep the Light On!”
IN THIS ISSUE... • HUB UPDATES • NEW STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS ON CAMPUS • WAYS TO GET INVOLVED WTIH OTAND • ALUMNI NEWS AND MORE... March 2019 - OTAND Newsletter
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Keeping
OTAND Hub Updates CHICAGO
There were two alumni events in Chicago: a hub gathering and an invitation for discounted tickets for Otterbein alumni for a production of This Bitter Earth produced by About Face Theatre. Ben Sprunger ’97, coordinated the event at AFT. Leslie Clemmer ’02, volunteered to set up a Facebook page specifically for Chicago alums and she volunteered to serve as point person for the Chicago hub. We discussed setting up a gathering during a future recruiting trip to Chicago. Plans are also in the works for potential collaborations amongst alumni in future theatre projects.
COLUMBUS
Our Columbus hub also had a formal meeting discussing the same topics. “Let’s Keep the Light On” surfaced as a take-away message for the OTAND 2020 event. Plans are in the works for a jingle! The Columbus hub also talked about the importance of ensuring that all alumni working outside the theatre world feel welcomed back.
NEW YORK
In addition to the wonderful food and drink that Dee Hoty ‘74, and Randy Adams ’76, provided as hub liaisons, our NYC hub discussed alumni helping with recruiting efforts, serving as class agents, and becoming involved in our pilot mentorship program for seniors.
LOS ANGELES
Alumni representing the 60’s, 80’s, 90’s, and the first two decades of the 2000’s, and representing every degree plan attended the LA hub gathering. Meg Morman ’99, volunteered to set up a Facebook page specifically for LA alums, and to serve as a point person for the LA hub. We discussed setting up a gathering during a future recruiting trip to LA.
Our NYC alumni also generated ideas for OTAND 2020: Bring It Home . . . where the light is always on!
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Discussions are also in the works for other outings and gatherings. As was the case in the NYC and Columbus hubs, many folks volunteered to serve as mentors for graduating seniors.
March 2019 - OTAND Newsletter
CONGRESSIONAL ART COMPETITION Each year, Members of the U.S. House of Representatives participate in the Congressional Art Competition. A winning piece of art is selected from each congressional district for display in the halls of the Capitol Building. While the process of selecting a winner varies from one congressional district to another, the overall rules are the same. Eligible pieces must be submitted from a high school student in the respective Member of Congress’ district and abide by certain size requirements. This year, 430 members of the U.S. House participated, many hosting competitions in their home district to find THE winner that would fulfill the role of that representative’s submission for display in the Capitol.
duties, he was tasked with finding a keynote speaker for the ceremony, and he immediately thought of fellow Otterbein alum, Cory Michael Smith ‘09.
In June, the respective winners of the district competition descended upon the nation’s capital for ceremonies celebrating their achievement. Two Otterbein theatre alumni were involved.
Since graduation, Cory has had great success in theatre, television, and film, though he is most recognizable to the national audience for his recurring role as Edward Nygma (the “Riddler”) on Fox’s Gotham. He spoke to the students about finding their own paths, resilience, and most importantly, continuing to create their art.
Trenton Weaver ‘11, legal counsel to Congresswoman Joyce Beatty who co-chaired the national competition, coordinated the national competition on Congresswoman Beatty’s behalf. As part of his
For the next year, visitors to Washington, D.C. will be able to view the winning pieces lining the walls of the tunnel from the Cannon House Office Building to the United States Capitol Building.
March 2019 - OTAND Newsletter
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COMMUNICATION CORNER By Trenton Weaver ‘11 With the holidays behind us, I often feel that a time of year which should be relaxing... never really is. Whether it’s exams, traveling to visit family, or trying to find that New Year’s Resolutions list you wrote last December to try and squeeze just ONE in, time seems to fly by towards the end of the year. Nonetheless, each year, my wife and I like to send Christmas cards, complete with photos of our cats in some sort of costume (because of course they’re in costume). I consider it an exciting communication with a bit of news from us for the past year. All that to say, OTAND has some exciting communications news for you (See what I did there? ...I’m so sorry). In the past few months, alumni have gathered in cities across the country, and we look forward to many more events - we need YOU to help us!
SAVE
E! T A D THE
OTAND is still actively seeking volunteers in two key areas: contributors to the OTAND newsletter and for individuals to serve as class agents. Class agents serve as representatives of their graduation year and work as liaisons between OTAND and their classmates. As always, with 2019 now here, I must make an appeal to mark your calendars for OTAND 2020. August 21-23, 2020, will be a chance to celebrate, reconnect, and the time to come home. We hope to see everyone there. Lastly, we want to hear from you! Our next issue of the OTAND newsletter will feature those of us who have or have had a “side hustle” while pursuing that ultimate dream job. Email us at otand@otterbein.edu with your ideas! I want to ask all of you to complete the survey included with this newsletter. What do you want from your alumni group? How do you want to receive communications from OTAND (and how frequently)? The survey will be used by the OTAND board to set the course to better serve our alumni.
Join the
OTAND 2020: Bring It Home...Where the light is always on
August 21-23, 2020 • Otterbein University Campus, Planning is underway, and we need your help - Join a committee! • • • • • •
Communication & Promotion Parties Performances Legacy (Archives) Panels & Workshops Administration, Logistics & Fundraising
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Contact Chris Kirk ckirk@otterbein.edu to volunteer.
March 2019 - OTAND Newsletter
Class Agents Wanted • Stay in touch with your classmates • Share information about OTAND mailings & activities • Collect alumni updates We still need agents for 2006, 2004, 2001, 1999-1987, 1984-1979, 1977 and earlier Contact esaltzgiver@otterbein.edu to volunteer.
e team!
Be a Mentor...
Connect with current students as they begin their search for an internship and assist them as they navigate life after graduation. Give feedback on resume and coverletters, and assist with professional development and networking opportunities in your field. We are looking for alumni in all aspects of the entertainment industry. Contact Chris Kirk ckirk@otterbein.edu to volunteer. March 2019 - OTAND Newsletter
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Yes, and.... By Trenton Weaver ‘11
If you haven’t been back to campus in a while, you’ll be happy to know that the students are doing exciting things. As if schedules weren’t full enough, they are finding time to explore other performance avenues. OTAND had the chance to catch up with Trey Plutnicki ‘19 (BFA Musical Theatre), who is currently leading “Mainstage Improv,” a student-run organization that does just what it says - improv, and Alyssa Samuelson ‘20 (BA Theatre) who is one of the founding members of 11th Hour Theatre, a student-run production company.
Mainstage Improv
Monthly performances consistently draw 75-150 audience members, and Trey says the department is supportive, with at least one faculty member attending each performance.
Sean’s comedic skills are not unknown to the Otterbein campus, as he has now written two web-series and a play that was produced by Otterbein Summer Theatre.
While the group is technically not affiliated with the department, most members of Mainstage are Theatre majors, and their faculty advisor is also currently from the department. Trey says the department is very accommodating to the group and trusts their use of the department’s facilities.
was originally founded by Sean Murphy, ‘14 while still a student simply because he was interested in exploring the art form.
According to Trey, “People need comedy. People also like things they’ve never seen before. Improv marries the two.” By its very nature, improv is always new. Trey believes that an audience which craves newness and comedy is what keeps Mainstage Improv going.
Of course, adding yet another commitment to the life of an already busy theatre major demands time management. We asked Trey how participants manage. He admitted that it’s a bit of a balancing act.
Photos (page 6 top): Braxton Maloney ‘20 (BFA Design Technology, (page 6 bottom): Kaylee Barrett ‘18 (BFA Acting) and Steven Meeker ‘17 (BFA Acting). Photos (page 7 left-right) Trey Plutnicki ‘19, Tatum Beck ‘21 (BFA Musical Theatre), Isabel Billinghurst ‘20 (BFA Musical Theatre), and Grace Dillon ‘21 (BFA Musical Theatre).
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March 2019 - OTAND Newsletter
ON CAMPUS
Mainstage rehearses twice a week- Wednesdays at 11:00 PM and Sundays at 8:00 - times when most of the troupe are free from departmental obligations. Trey stresses that the time commitment requires students to be on top of their schoolwork. Currently, the troupe is comprised of twelve individuals. Ten are performance majors (four Acting
11th Hour Theatre
majors, six Musical Theatre majors), one BA Theatre major, and one person with a major entirely different from theatre. In terms of class years, Mainstage has two seniors, three juniors, five sophomores, and two freshman. On the horizon, Trey says the group is trending in the direction of musical improv, and the troupe is excited about the new possibilities. How can students get involved? Simply be an Otterbein student and audition in the fall. There are no other requirements. As Trey told us, “You don’t even have to be funny.” Then get ready to say “yes, and…”
is likely new to most alumni. While students have frequently gathered for independent readings and workshops, some even attempting their own presentations and productions, 11th Hour Theatre is a fully realized company. The student organization places emphasis on creating an independent space for students from all theatrical areas to work with each other to foster a greater appreciation for the work that is needed in production. When asked about the endurance of 11th Hour when similar groups seem to have come and gone, Alyssa Samuelson, the group’s Company Manager, responded that it’s all about creating an atmosphere of respect, a guiding principle the group has had since its first project. All group members have a passion for entertainment and a desire to explore new ways to practice their
March 2019 - OTAND Newsletter
craft. A desire which, Alyssa notes, equips the group of both theatre majors and non-majors alike, with the tools to join together in new ways. “The more diversity in skills, talents, and majors we have working in our company, the more we succeed.” The Department and faculty are supportive. At least one member of the faculty is in attendance at each production, and student participants recognize that taking on additional responsibilities is just that… additional responsibilities, which means putting classwork first. Alyssa added that guiding a successful student organization also means establishing lines of communication so as to keep a healthy, professional relationship with the Theatre & Dance faculty and other departments on campus. Continued on page 8....
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Since its first year, when sheer force and determination got the company through its ambitious schedule, each production now has its own production team to assist with detail work. This compartmentalization allows the board, which is comprised of students from a diverse collection of class years and degree types, to focus on “big picture stuff ” and major issues while also empowering all company members to take part in the show’s ownership. Alyssa emphasizes that there are no requirements to join, though
the 11th Hour board is intent on seeking individuals who work well with others and share a joy for the craft. Production teams and casts vary with each show, but have ranged from as small as three to as large as fifteen. The 11th Hour Theatre Company plans to continue to serve the campus beyond the tenure of the founding members. As Alyssa said, “one of our goals was to create something that could keep providing opportunities for students for years to come.”
11th Hour Theatre Company projects • First Production: Macbeth (Fall ‘17) • The Reminder Project, a collection of short scenes (Spring ‘18) • The Gun Show by EM Lewis (Spring ‘18)
• Blue Eyes by Nick Hahn ‘18 (Fall ‘18)
• Centerstage: A Female Cabaret (Fall ‘18)
• In Loving Memory with Mainstage Improv and Otterdrag (Fall ‘18)
As you may have seen in the most recent issue of Otterbein University’s Towers Magazine, the “Pit” Theatre in the basement of the Campus Center will be removed when the building is taken off-line for renovation. Many of us have memories of the space, of its challenges, and of its charms. While the exact date for demolition to begin is yet to be determined, Mainstage Improv, 11th Hour Theatre Company, and Otterdrag hosted a wake at the end of fall semester so that current students could have an opportunity to mourn the loss of the space and to remember the time we had with it.
We want to hear about your “Pit” experiences! Send your memories to otand@otterbein.edu
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March 2019 - OTAND Newsletter
Otterbein Theatre & Dance Semester in Review: Fall ‘18
BIG FISH Sept 20-29
Relive your own college production experiences by visiting the NEW
Otterbein University Digital Commons
The Theatre & Dance Collection includes more than 6,700 items!
You will find programs, posters, photos and more. New content is added regularly so bookmark the address and check back frequently.
https://digitalcommons.otterbein.edu/theatre_dance/
THE TRAGEDY OF MACBETH Oct 18-27
DANCE 2018: GLORIOUSLY GRIMM Nov 29-Dec 2 March 2019 - OTAND Newsletter
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On the Road By Bradley Barnes ‘08
Steve Czarnecki ’09 and Elizabeth Shivener Czarnecki ’09, both BFA Musical Theatre grads, recently finished contracts with the National Tour of Les Misérables. Liz was the Dance Captain, Female Swing and Fantine Cover while Steve was the foreman in addition to understudying the roles of Valjean and Javert.
LIZ Beast uty & the B Tour: ea • National (Belle) k Tour: Shre • National (Fiona) izard st, The W eatre: Gho • Fulton Th of Oz assman e Undercl e NYC: Th uk D e Th •
TS
HLIGH
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STEVE Beast uty & the : Tour Bea ) • National n to as G and (U/S Beast y Musical Tory Stor ruise Line: C ey • Disn htyear) (Buzz Lig es core! Seri n • NYC E e Opera ntom of th Tour: Pha • National e Swing) (Ensembl
Favorite Part of the Job? Steve: When I was a swing on Phantom, my favorite part was putting the puzzle together. Especially in shows when a swing had to play multiple people’s parts because of sickness or vacation, and you simply had to figure it out because the show must go on! It is an exciting feeling when it all works out, and the audience never knows (which is the best compliment a swing can ever get, that the audience would never know the difference) Ups and Downs of Life on Tour? Liz: Having done two tours prior, I’ve actually got this traveling thing down to a science. It’s a weird way of life, but you get used to it. Steve: It’s been interesting seeing how technology has changed the touring process. Uber and Airbnb weren’t around on our first one, and now we live by them. Otherwise touring is sort of what you make it. We have been lucky enough to visit 27 national parks, Liz has seen all 50 states, and I have seen 48... we have been very fortunate to travel so much while doing working jobs we have always wanted to have.
Tips for recent grads interested in hitting the road? Steve: Pack less!!! Highlights of the last year? Liz: Having spent so much time in our marriage apart from each other, this year together has been an absolute dream. It’s been a gift getting to work creatively as a pair, and we even got to go on opposite each other as Valjean and Fantine. We also saved enough to buy an apartment in NYC, which is thrilling!
My Otterbein Education...
Otterbein gave me an amazing start with the Design Tech program. The skills I learned transitioned well into live events and work at production companies, ultimately leading to founding and running Platinum. The number one thing Otterbein helped me with was time and stress management. The schedule for Otterbein University Theatre department as a Freshman and Sophomore was meant to push you to your limits in a good way.
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March 2019 - OTAND Newsletter
ALUMNI UPDATES
Creating his Own Path
By Bradley Barnes ‘08
Jacob Ramey ‘12 (BFA Design/ Technology) has taken quite a journey in the short time since his graduation. He went from theatre to production and live event work to entrepreneurship. “I had to make some big decisions about what I wanted. Do I continue traveling all around the nation constantly for work or do I try to have a home base here in Columbus? I was freelancing for every company in town and was on the road a lot driving equipment to gigs.” In 2015, Jacob decided to start his own production company, Platinum Technical Design & Management, a full service production company with a mission to provide seamless and stress-free event solutions. “We do everything from lighting and scenic design to audio engineering and much more. We handle shows of any size from 50 to 5000. We focus on treating our clients like partners instead of the typical client/vendor relationship.”
Just two years after starting Platinum TDM, a friend contacted Jacob with another business venture, and the two formed Green Event Solutions (GES). Their first project was playgreen.show, a digital solution for production programs to reduce paper and print costs. Jacob described it as “a website that allows a client to upload their content and digitally display the program/playbill for events on smartphones. It’s environmentally friendly, saves money, and is the future.” If you’re in the Columbus area, you can see the work of Platinum TDM at events including The Ohio State University Brain Health & Performance Summit and Highball Halloween, his favorite experience to date. Jacob credits his independence, stubbornness, a desire to set down some roots, and his Otterbein
The faculty in the Theatre department supported me as I did what seemed to be impossible. Every time I succeeded, they added more. It taught me my limits, not to over extend myself, and how to prioritize projects. I learned how to work and collaborate with many different people. It has been a privilege to go back and work with Otterbein on events, and I hope we get the opportunity to do so again. A quick shout out to Rob Johnson and Greg Bell for all the time they put in to making me better at theatre, and really better as a person. March 2019 - OTAND Newsletter
education for his success in getting a new company off the ground. “By starting a company, I took control of the need to travel and could run things my way. I learned a lot from some amazing mentors inside and out of the industry. I saw a clear opportunity and a serious need in multiple markets for what I had envisioned.”
I also appreciate T.J. Gerckens ‘88 who was my lighting mentor through the years and is now a faculty member at Otterbein teaching lighting. I had the privilege of being his Teaching Assistant, joining him in Chicago at the Goodman for The Jungle Book and at Berkley Repertory Theatre for White Snake. Otterbein was truly an amazing experience that prepared me with the skills to make it in my field. - Jacob Ramey ‘12
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IN REMEMBRANCE
MARK PETERS ‘70, 1948-2018
It is with great sadness that we share with you the news of our dear friend Mark Peter’s passing, class of 1970. He left us on Wednesday, December 5 at the early age of 69 due to kidney failure. We cherish the legacy that Mark gave our department in archiving our illustrious history through pictures and stories, all of which will be available for everyone to enjoy via the new Digital Commons. We will be forever grateful for his time and dedication to keeping our history alive. We will always remember fondly Mark and his beloved wife Betty, who together saw more theatre in Ohio than anyone thought was humanly possible. They both will be missed.
IN OUR NEXT ISSUE... • WORKING THE SIDE HUSTLE
•A TRIBUTE TO ANDY BAKER ‘09
OTAND
Otterbein Theatre & Dance Alumni Network The Otterbein Theatre & Dance Alumni Network will bring together graduates of the Department of Theatre and Dance, as well as alumni who participated in theatre and dance activities before we became an official department, to provide networking support for each other, mentoring of current students, assistance with recruiting, and fundraising for the department.
STAY INFORMED
Otterbein Theatre & Dance Alumni Network
•AND MORE!
OTAND Executive Board CHAIR/AT LARGE REPRESENTATIVE Trenton I. Weaver (‘11) ACTING REPRESENTATIVE
Caitlin Morris (‘09)
AT-LARGE REPRESENTATIVE BA REPRESENTATIVE
TBA Randy Adams (‘76)
DANCE MINOR REPRESENTATIVE Cassandra Cardenas (‘10) DESIGN/TECHNOLOGY TBA REPRESENTATIVE MUSICAL THEATRE REPRESENTATIVE
David Caldwell (‘86)
DEPARTMENT CHAIR
Christina Kirk
DEPARTMENT REPRESENTATIVE Elizabeth Saltzgiver (‘99) Contact: OTAND@otterbein.edu
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Contact the Executive Board: OTAND@otterbein.edu March 2019 - OTAND Newsletter