UMW Theatre Annual Report 2015-16 by University of Mary Washington

REFLECTING

2015-16

REFLECTING

“In this department, I have found that I can learn from being a part of many facets of theatre as I try to figure out what I want to do when I graduate. Everything I do is for the benefit of our community and I love that. I am still discovering so much.” Beverly Kippenhan ’17

Jake Crowley ’16 working on the set of Avenue Q

Camarey Chambliss ’19 as Gary Coleman in Avenue Q

e go to the theatre to grapple with the complexities of being alive, to embrace otherness, and to celebrate life’s many gifts. Plays and musicals tell the stories of the world— important stories that sometimes are not easy to experience —but through which we grow individually and collectively by allowing ourselves to be challenged in provocative ways. The artists who create theatre need an audience to engage a dialogue and to take the work from the darkened theatre into the world. We are grateful that our growing audience is fully immersed in this conversation. Our program grounds students in theory and knowledge and bolsters them with the critical skills they need to create extraordinary lives for themselves. To our audience we merely produce plays and musicals, but what we really do with our students is so much more significant: we build community, mentor leadership, offer critical feedback, and help our students to see themselves as emerging professionals with the potential to make a difference in the world that we share. We remain committed to transforming lives through our work. We are privileged to count you as a partner in that endeavor. Take a look at the difference we made in 2015-16. We are so very proud.

Gregg Stull Professor and Chair Department of Theatre & Dance

COVER: Abraham Shaikh ’19 with Nicky of Avenue Q

“I have become a stronger, more independent, and passionate actor, theatregoer, and person. This department not only allowed me to participate in great theatre, I was able to see it; I am glad the department takes full advantage of how close we are to Washington, DC. My professors constantly encouraged me to do my best work. I am forever thankful for the University of Mary Washington theatre department.” Maggie Murphy ’16

OUR MISSION The Department of Theatre & Dance fosters a deep appreciation for theatre by providing significant cultural and educational experiences for students, faculty, staff, and residents of the greater Fredericksburg area. Through classroom experiences, workshops, and productions, we explore the great questions of humanity by engaging the processes, techniques, history, theory, and literature of our discipline. We remain committed to the act of creating theatre as fundamental to teaching its precepts.

Maggie Murphy ’16 takes a bow at a performance of Tartuffe

Amanda Callender ’16 working on the set of Noises Off

“I cannot express how grateful I am to be a part of a department where individual skills and talents are nurtured, challenged, inspired, and encouraged to grow. I have learned more than I ever thought I could about my craft as well as life in general. I can’t wait to learn even more. I am proud to call the UMW Theatre department my home.” Austen Weathersby ’17

OUR VALUES We believe in the power of engaged teaching and professional mentoring as essential to student success. We are committed to collaboration as a means to accomplish our work as teachers, artists, and scholars. We promote a culture that is nurturing, supportive, and encourages artistic risk-taking. We measure ourselves through critique and reflection as a means of evaluating our quest for excellence. We nurture a dialogue with our audience in order to strengthen the community we share. We champion theatre as a lifelong pursuit that enriches the quality of our lives and creates informed citizens of the world.

OUR VISION Central to the life of the department is the production of plays and musicals that support our mission. As such, we will devote our physical, human, and financial resources to create a pre-professional laboratory that blends theory and practice to enhance the cultural life of the university and regional community while expanding the intellectual and emotional capacity of our students.

“Between the experience and skill of the designers and directors, the generous nature of the faculty and staff, and the ceaseless hard work and zeal that goes into everything the department does, I don’t think there could have been anywhere better for me to study. This department teaches more than textbook knowledge: it teaches professionalism and self-reliance—exactly what we need to begin our careers.” Joshua Culhane ’16

“Our faculty is so passionate about their work as they create a rich environment for students to work hard and thrive. This is why I felt like I could succeed as a theatre major; the department welcomed me, supported me, and challenged me to be better than I thought I could be. UMW Theatre has become my home and family.” Claire Crusott ’17

A shift rehearsal for Noises Off

OUR ASPIRATIONS The Department of Theatre & Dance will grow the cultural capacity of the Fredericksburg region by offering productions that promote an energetic exchange of ideas, stimulate a robust conversation between artists and audience, and provide opportunities for students to connect their pursuit of knowledge and skills with performance. Over the next five years we will increase theatre attendance, expand opportunities for students to participate in theatre production, build stronger bridges between UMW Theatre and the professional world, recruit greater numbers of highly qualified students, and develop revenue streams through entrepreneurial initiatives and through the cultivation of our patron donor base. The Department of Theatre & Dance will secure its position as a regional and statewide cultural resource in theatre and as a destination for future students to develop their intellect, talents, and skills.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;. . . enhancing the cultural life of the university and community through the presentation of theatrical productions of the highest quality . . .â&#x20AC;? We welcomed 8,070 audience members for 42 performances of 4 productions in Klein Theatre.

“I came here as a transfer student, uncertain about my abilities. I found in-depth classes taught by professors who clearly love what they are teaching. Our productions are excellent, and I am grateful I was able to learn from being a part of them. UMW Theatre is incredible.” Catalina Ruiz de Gamboa ’16

508 students collaborated with the faculty to produce the 2015-16 season in Klein Theatre.

The cast of Noises Off

September 24-October 4

As the actors in a mercurial British theatre company rehearse for their opening night performance of the adult comedy Nothing On, doors slam one after the other, sardines fly through the air, and hilarious mayhem ensues! Everything that can go wrong does in Michael Frayn’s farcical romp through an actor’s worst nightmares—missed cues, botched costume changes, forgotten props, and plenty more. Noises Off is a sidesplitting look into the on and off-stage antics of a theatre company aiming just a little too high as it lurches toward an opening night disaster.

“Loved this play. One of the best from UMW!” —a patron in the lobby

Gregg Stull, director Helen M. Housley, dialect coach Casey Kaleba, stunt choreographer Julie Hodge, scenic designer Kevin McCluskey, costume designer Catherine Girardi, lighting designer Jon K. Reynolds, sound designer

“I am grateful to have received the opportunities that have been given to me. We have so many passionate people here, and it has rubbed off on me. I can’t wait to see how the next two years play out.” Lauren Frautschi ’18

Margaret Lewis ’16 , Lauren Frautschi ’18, and Jake Crowley ’16 in Noises Off

Gregg Stull, director Christopher Wingert, music director Helen M. Housley, vocal coach Samantha L. Reynolds, choreographer Niffer Pflager, scenic designer Kevin McCluskey, costume designer Kevin McCluskey, puppet designer Jason Arnold, lighting designer Tony Angelini, sound designer Jon K. Reynolds, video designer

November 5-22

“I enjoyed every minute of the show!” —a follower on Facebook

Known as the “Sesame Street for grown-ups,” this “Tony Triple Crown” winner (Best Musical, Best Score, Best Book) follows Princeton, a recent college graduate, as he discovers what real life (well, as real as you can get with singing puppets) is like when you wake up as a college grad. With songs like “What Do You Do With a B.A. in English?” and “I’m Not Wearing Underwear Today,” this isn’t your typical “brought to you by the letter G” television show. With the help of his colorful (and sometimes fuzzy) neighbors, Princeton learns about the importance of having friends while navigating the sometimes disappointing waters of being a grown-up in a world where everyone is just a little bit special.

“UMW Theatre has offered me some of the greatest learning experiences I have ever had. Being able to work so closely with the faculty and staff (who themselves work so hard to see us succeed) has helped me to push myself past what I thought I could do. I feel more confident in my abilities because of all the opportunities I have had on stage, in the classroom, and even off campus. I feel an incredible amount of pride for the work that we do in this department. It’s amazing to see so many people work together to create theatre and then to be able to share it with our community. ” Megan Khaziran ’17

Aaron Hoffman ’19 & Abraham Shaikh ’19 in Avenue Q

February 11-21

Jackie Filicko ’16 & Jake Crowley ’16 in Frozen

When 10-year-old Rhona turns up missing in a small town in England, her mother, Nancy, retreats into herself and to a state of paralyzing longing for her daughter’s safe return. Over the next 20 years, Nancy speaks with Ralph, her daughter’s killer, to make sense of the madness. Agnetha, a psychiatrist from New York, also seeks out Ralph for her research into the mind of a serial killer. Their lives intersect, and all three begin to melt as they explore ideas of forgiveness, remorse, and change. Bryony Lavery’s dark play about horrific circumstances asks audiences, “Is it possible to forgive someone for an unthinkable act if the ability to move on with your life depends on it?”

“My experience in this department has been one of immense academic and personal growth. I acquired practical skills and a vocabulary of my craft in class and I applied this knowledge working on productions. I thank my beloved professors for my discoveries because they cultivated my moments of realization and so artfully molded my mind to allow for such growth. I walk away from my four years in this department fundamentally changed and hungry for more knowledge, growth, and exploration.”

Cate Brewer, director Helen M. Housley, vocal coach Julie Hodge, scenic designer Alicia Austin, costume designer Alexander Taggert, lighting designer Madeline Clamp, sound designer

Margaret Lewis ’16

“. . . we are still talking about it.” —patron email

April 7-17

First performed for the court of King Louis XIV in 1664, Molière’s comedy Tartuffe has stood the test of centuries. As slippery as its title character, the play focuses on a con man hell-bent on swindling the patriarch of a well-to-do family out of everything he holds dear. Despite Tartuffe’s best efforts, the rest of the family does not fall for his cunning, joining forces to expose him for the hypocrite they believe him to be. Tartuffe is at once an unrelenting examination of religious hypocrisy, 17th-century French upper-class society, and a laugh-out-loud comedy of unequalled stature.

“In this department I have had the chance to advance my knowledge and skills in theatre through classes and productions. I know that I have steadily improved since my first year. The variety of courses and experiences have broadened my horizons on so many aspects of theatre.”

Helen Housley, director Niffer Pflager, scenic designer Kevin McCluskey, costume designer Julie Hodge, lighting designer Morgan Gresham, sound designer

Jacob Savage ’17

“. . . Wonderful show! [We] were laughing until we nearly cried at some points.” —a follower on Facebook Kenny Bellamy ’17 & Jacob Savage ’17 in Tartuffe

E G A T S K C BA

PASS

Kodi McCall ’17 working on the Trekkie Monster puppet for Avenue Q

Our popular Backstage Pass seminar series continued this season around Avenue Q. Patrons joined us for conversations led by guest lecturers and faculty from the Department of Theatre and Dance. They attended rehearsals, toured the shops, and talked with the actors. 76 patrons joined us for this remarkable experience.

“UMW Theatre has taught me how to really contribute to a team. I have learned how to grow from critique and work hard towards my goals.” Catherine O’Meara ’17

“. . . providing significant cultural and educational experiences for residents of the greater Fredericksburg area.”

Grown Up Puppets—The Making of the Musical Gary Richards, associate professor of English

Puppets Singing Catchy Tunes—The Music of the Musical Christopher Wingert, music director and adjunct professor of theatre

Meet the Neighbors on Avenue Q—Our Puppets Kevin McCluskey, puppet designer and associate professor of theatre

Avenue Q—First Rehearsal

Gregg Stull, director and professor of theatre Kevin McCluskey, costume designer and associate professor of theatre Julie Hodge, scenic designer and associate professor of theatre Samantha L. Reynolds, choreographer and puppetry coach

The Sitzprobe

Christopher Wingert, music director and adjunct professor of theatre Gregg Stull, director and professor of theatre and the Avenue Q band

Wrap-Up Conversation The Avenue Q Company

SIGN LANGUAGE INTERPRETATION

“I am so grateful to the department for offering sign-interpreted performances so that my parents can attend performances at my school and get to experience the productions with me in a meaningful way.” Chad Taylor ’18

Michael Creason & Mindy Laine providing Sign Interpretation for Avenue Q

â&#x20AC;&#x153;. . . champion theatre as a lifelong pursuit that enriches the quality of our lives . . .â&#x20AC;?

Our accessibility initiative took a big leap forward in 2015-16 when we made a commitment to offer sign language interpretation for every production. Partnering with First Chair Interpreted Productions, we made great strides in developing an audience of theatregoers who might not otherwise have the opportunity to enjoy our work. 41 patrons purchased tickets in the signinterpretation viewing area for our productions this seasonâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;an astounding number in the first year of this endeavor. Another 634 audience members experienced the sign language interpretation by virtue of having purchased a ticket for that performance. We also offer accessible seating, an assisted listening system, and large-print programs as we work towards making our performances accessible to the greatest number of potential theatregoers.

Department faculty hosted 50 classes on trips to the theatre in Washington, DC, this season. 1,066 students experienced live professional theatreâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;many for the first time in their lives. This initiative is critical to connecting the campus to the metropolitan DC area, while bridging the gap between the academic theatre and the professional theatre. This is the 32nd year of this professional enrichment program.

Arena Stage in Washington, DC

“. . . build stronger bridges between UMW Theatre and the professional world . . .”

“I transferred to UMW and felt welcomed and embraced by the theatre department as soon as I stepped on campus. I cannot believe how much I have learned in the short time that I have been here. The faculty teaches in class, in productions, and every time I talk with them. They have taught me to take personal responsibility for my work as they prepare me for life after graduation.” Alex Newton ’17

BEYOND THE CAMPUS Alicia Austin ’16 contributed to a panel at the United States Institute of Theatre Technology (USITT) Conference in Salt Lake City, UT, on the making of puppets for Avenue Q. Elizabeth Kump ’16, Kodi McCall ’17, and Alex Taggert ’16 attended USITT, where they participated in workshops and presentations on design and technology in the industry. Amanda Barnes ’17 was chosen to appear on The Real Winning Edge, a television series that documents student success against adversity. Kenny Bellamy ’16 performed with The Rude Mechanicals in their productions of King Lear and Cymbeline. Victoria Bond ’16, Shona DiPaula ’17, Michayla Rice ’18, Natalie Wawrzeniak ’17, Jesse Slate ’18, Olivia Maluzzi ’17, Dana Baumgartner ’16, Ed Yates ’17, and Anneka Early ’16 danced in Twinkle, choreographed by adjunct professor of dance Roxann Rowley, at the American College Dance Association MidAtlantic Conference (ACDA). Prof. Rowley also taught technique classes for conference attendees. Cate Brewer, lecturer of theatre, performed Samantha in Hootenanny by Monique LaForce in its premiere production for the Women’s Voices Theater Festival in Washington, DC. Jamie Broadhead ’18 and Jessica Lane ’16 worked as camp counselors for theatre camps at the School of the Performing Arts in the Richmond Community. Megan Cadenas ’16 interned as a costumer at Walt Disney World as part of the Disney College Internship Program. Madeline Clamp ’16 interned at the Keegan Theatre in D.C. as the associate sound designer for its production of Cat on a Hot Tin Roof. Jake Crowley ’16 attended the Michael Chekhov Actors Studio six-week summer intensive in Boston.

David Denyer ’16 performed in the role of Papa Bear in Encore Stage & Studio’s production of Shrek the Musical in Arlington, VA.

Hayden Morrissett ’16 worked as the Company Management Assistant for the Ford’s Theatre Gala in Washington D.C.

Julie Hodge, associate professor of theatre, was invited to be a judge for Fiber, a national juried exhibition of fiber arts at Liberty Arts Workshop in Fredericksburg, VA.

Niffer Pflager, visiting assistant professor of theatre, designed scenery for The Girl with Two Belly Buttons for the 2015 Capital Fringe Festival in Washington DC.

Helen Housley, associate professor of theatre, presented Feeling Shakespeare’s Buzz: Lessac’s Tonal NRG and the Shakespearean Actor at the 2016 Lessac Institute Conference in Denver. Judi Jackson ‘15 was accepted into Springboard NYC, the highly competitive boot camp for recent theatre graduates, sponsored by the American Theatre Wing. Casey Kaleba, adjunct professor of theatre, served as fight choreographer for a number of professional productions, including The Mystery of Love & Sex at Signature Theatre, The Pillowman at Forum Theatre, and Guards at the Taj at Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company in Washington, DC. Megan Khaziran ’17 interned at The Keegan Theatre as the assistant stage manager for Cat on a Hot Tin Roof. Bev Kippenhan ’17 and Amanda Barnes ’17 studied abroad in Bath with Advanced Studies in England’s Not Just Shakespeare Summer Theatre School. Elizabeth Kump ’16 completed the Make-Up Summer Course at the Arts University Bournemouth in the UK. Commissioned by the Hub Theatre, Leto Legend by Kristen LePine, adjunct professor of theatre, premiered at the John Swayze Theatre in Fairfax, VA. Gwen Levey ’17 toured the greater DC metropolitan area performing her original songs. Knowledge Exchange Institute invited Kevin McCluskey, associate professor of theatre, to serve on the advisory committee in the evaluation of study abroad programs for arts students in Europe, India, and Australia.

Brandon Prendergast, adjunct professor of theatre, stage managed The Guard and The Glass Menagerie at Ford’s Theatre in Washington, DC, and La Cage aux Folles at Signature Theatre in Arlington, VA. Jon K. Reynolds, director of marketing and audience services, and Taryn Snyder, assistant to the chair, attended the National Arts Marketing, Development & Ticketing Conference in New York, NY. The Last Burlesque by Stephen Spotswood, adjunct professor of theatre, played to sold out houses and rave reviews at the Capital Fringe Festival in July of 2015. Natalie Tenner, adjunct professor of theatre, served as dramaturg for Constellation Theatre’s productions of Equus and Journey to the West in Washington, DC. Ford Torney ’16 was accepted into CAP21’s Summer Professional Musical Theatre Training Program in New York, NY, where he spent six weeks in intensive dance, voice, and acting training. Michael Townsend ’17 researched the history of live performance and entertainment in Fredericksburg with Gregg Stull, professor of theatre. Natalie Wawrzeniak ’17 and Anneka Early ’16 danced in Shona DiPaula’s ’17 piece, Life Vest at the ACDA conference at West Virginia University in Morgantown. Christopher Wingert, adjunct professor of theatre, provided music direction for Sitar Arts Center’s production of West Side Story in Washington, DC, as well as for Isn’t It Romantic at Signature Theatre.

ΑΨΩ ηη cast

“From day one, I was welcomed into this department with open arms and given opportunities far beyond what I thought I could accomplish. It is through the faculty’s brilliance, patience, and dedication to their students that I have come as far as I have. Immeasurable growth is the only way I know how to articulate my time at UMW Theatre. ” Hayden Morrissett ’16

Prof. Harold Weiss established the Eta Eta Cast of Alpha Psi Omega in the spring of 1938 with a charter cast of 10 students who were chosen for academic achievement and creative excellence in theatre production. The tradition of honoring outstanding theatre students continues today with 16 students tapped for this prestigious honor society in 2015-16.

The Eta Eta cast of Alpha Psi Omega following the spring induction

Inducted Fall 2015

Rob di Leo ’17, Madeleine Dilley ’17, Morgan Gresham ’17, Jessica Kemp ’17, Bev Kippenhan ’17, Taylor Kiechlin ’17, Jacob Savage ’17, Austen Weathersby ’17

Inducted Spring 2016

Alicia Austin ’17, Joshua Bartosch ’16, Andrew Baynard ’17, Catalina Ruiz de Gamboa ’16, Megan Khaziran ’17, Gwen Levey ’17, Kodi McCall ’17, Catherine O’Meara ’17

24 hours in Puppet Boot Camp

pounds of nails and screws in the scenery

to prepare for first rehearsal

volunteer ushers who greeted our patrons in Klein Theatre

board feet of lum used in the scen

1,1

3,035

hours spent by students in THEA 451A & THEA 452E: Puppet Construction to build the puppets

137

googly eye finger puppets distributed at First Rehearsal to Backstage Pass patrons and student attendees

23 Million

381

9-Volt batteries used for the microphones

students who completed their major requirement, THEA 482: Senior Project, through the production

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110

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168 kicks in the kickline for

139

“Everyone’s A Little Bit Racist” from opening through closing

100

367

first-time Klein Theatre ticket buyers

fuzzy orange Q’s placed in classrooms all over campus

terrific patrons who registered for Backstage Pass

lighting cues called by the stage manager

puppets designed and constructed

ents or 14 roles

284

hours of rehearsals

hours d co focu

uments stage

yards of fabric used to make the puppet bodies

banners on lamposts around campus

5,776 (and counting)

views of our music video on YouTube and Facebook

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devoted to building scenery, ostumes, and hanging & using lighting instruments

4,060

1,734

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BY THE S R E B M NU

Our work is measured in countless ways. For many productions, we measure our work in hours, days, weeks, months, materials, and people involved. Once in a while, however, a production lends itself to looking at other ways in which our work can be measured. And though we barely touch the tip of the iceberg, we hope that this infographic will provide some insight into what it takes to make one production a success, measured in something other than the usual numbers.

OUR ALUMNI ON

BROADWAY

While the Department of Theatre and Dance is proud of its many alumni who work in professional theatres across the country, the summer of 2016 marked a significant milestone in the life of the department. For the first time in its history, five of our graduates are working on Broadway—the undisputed theatre capital of the world!

Natalie Joy Johnson ’00 continues to impress audiences as Pat in the long-running hit musical, Kinky Boots, winner of the 2013 Tony Award for Best Musical.

n as Pat in Kinky

nso Natalie Joy Joh

Boots

After serving as the assistant hair supervisor for Disaster! on Broadway, Madeline LeCuyer ’11 is currently the wig and hair swing on Aladdin, Les Miserables, and The Book of Mormon.

Madeline LeCuyer

in the wig room at

Aladdin

Devin Day ’10 is stage manager for the The Humans, which won the 2016 Tony Award for Best Play.

Devin Day backst

age at The Human

Jean Marie Hufford ’10 is a child guardian for the Tony Award-winning musical, The King and I, where she manages the 17 young actors who appear in the production. ) with the children er nt ce op (t d or ottom right) Jean Marie Huff and Kelli O’Hara (b I d an ng Ki e Th from

Anissa Felix ’13 is the female swing for Motown The Musical where she covers for the female roles in this legendary show about the artists who changed the soundtrack of America.

Anissa Felix in cost um in Motown The Mus e for the role of Diana Ross ical

A number of other alumni work daily to support Broadway productions. Martha Smith ’99 works for the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, where she negotiates contracts and works with producers to secure safe and healthy environments for workers in the entertainment industry; Andy Brown ’98 is a project manager at PRG Scenic Technologies, where he has supervised the build and load-in of scenery for Something Rotten!, Waitress, and Eclipsed, among others; Meg Weedon ’90 is a costume designer and draper at Carelli Costumes, where her work can be seen on stage in Aladdin, Jersey Boys, Phantom of the Opera, and Something Rotten!; and David Ryan Spry ’08 is the director of regional marketing for The Marketing Division, where he develops marketing strategies for tours of Broadway shows.

HIGH SCHOOL MATINEE Students from several local high schools get ready to enjoy a performance of Tartuffe

In 2015-16 we partnered with local high school theatre teachers to present a special high school weekday matinee performance of Tartuffe. Teachers and students received a resource guide prior to attending the play to prepare them to attend the production. With an audience of nearly 200, not only did the high school students grow from coming to Klein Theatre, our actors gained valuable experience performing on a Monday morning for eager young people. “This department has been instrumental in helping me become the person I want to be. I am incredibly appreciative of the individual help and support I’ve gotten from my professors and mentors. I discovered my passion for stage management when the faculty encouraged me to step beyond my comfort zone. Thanks to what they saw in me, I am spending my summer interning at two renowned professional theatres. I am grateful.” Taylor Kiechlin ’17

“. . . recruit greater numbers of highly qualified students . . .”

UMW Theatre hosted 80 students in grades 6-12 in the spring, marking the 13th year we have hosted the Girl Scout Theatre Weekend for the Girl Scouts of the Nation’s Capital. Nearly 1,200 Girl Scouts and leaders have participated in the program since its inception.

A Girl Scout works on a “Wrapping Paper” Dress,” an exercise featured in our THEA 242: Costume Construction course

GIRL SCOUT

WEEKEND

â&#x20AC;&#x153;. . . nurture the dialogue with our audience in order to strengthen the community . . .â&#x20AC;?

Since 1997, we have hosted Mary Washington ElderStudy in Klein Theatre for four pre-show lectures. This year more than 250 people attended these events to meet the director, talk with the actors, and learn more about the work they are about to experience.

MARY WASHINGTON

ELDERSTUDY

Audience members prepare for the cast of Tartuffe to speak to them at AfterWords

An average of 55 patrons remained in the theatre following the first matinee of every production to talk with the actors and artistic staff during AfterWords, our very popular post-show discussion program.

“I didn’t even consider being a theatre major until I met the amazing people in this department. We have so many amazing opportunities—working with professional designers, seeing great theatre in Washington, DC, and learning about all different aspects of the business. I am so proud of this phenomenal department that wants me to succeed and is there to help me in any way.” Jessica Knapp ’17

“. . . stimulate a robust conversation between artist and audience . . .”

We hosted over 150 patrons for our Friday Night Out this season. Patrons enjoyed pre-show drinks, hors d’oeuvres, and conversation with the cast before curtain in this highly successful audience engagement event.

t u O t h Nig

“UMW Theatre has truly taught me the importance of making my own opportunities and how to accomplish my goals, even when they seem impossible. This department has ignited the light inside of me to chase after my dreams and never give up, since I know that the faculty will be there supporting me long after I graduate.” Gwen Levey ’16

Friday Night Out attendees enjoy conversation with cast members

Studio 115 is our 40-seat black box theatre in the basement of duPont Hall. Fully outfitted with lighting, sound, and communications systems that mirror Klein Theatre, Studio 115 provides a working laboratory for our students to practice what they learn in their classes and offers significant opportunities to strengthen skills and to explore the art and craft of creating theatre. The all-student Studio 115 Committee produces a variety of projects in the space from readings of student-written work to fully-realized productions of plays and musicals.

Studio 115 Committee, 2015-16

222 students participated in 17 performances of 10 Studio 115 productions, including the legendary 24-Hour Play Festival. 480 audience members found their way to this small black box theatre to support the developing work of our students.

Vanessa Borg ’16 Erin Becker ’17 Kenny Bellamy ’17 Jamie Broadhead ’18 Angel Cowen ’19 Rob DiLeo ’17 Jackie Filicko ’16 Morgan Gresham ’17 Sophia Gutkowski ’17 Lily Olson ’19 Alex Taggert ’16 Grace Kreider ’18 Megan Khaziran ’17 Ford Torney ’16

Chair Lighting Supervisor Social Media Director Assistant Technical Director Production Assistant Play Curator Marketing Assistant Sound Supervisor Assistant Technical Director House Manager Technical Director Member Member Secretary

De’Toine Jones ’19 in the 24-Hour Play Festival

IDEAS IN PERFORMANCE

NEW YORK CITY

Students of THEA 435: Ideas in Performance pose in Times Square after a performance of The Crucible Since 1994 the Department of Theatre and Dance has offered THEA 435: Ideas in Performance, an upper-level seminar during which students accomplish a significant research project on the contemporary theatre. Throughout the semester, students work with Professor Gregg Stull to consider the state of the professional theatre, investigate trends in production, and survey the employment landscape while developing a research plan, cultivating primary sources, and contextualizing the state of the discipline within contemporary society. A critical component of the course is a research trip to New York during which students explore the industry, interview theatre professionals, network with theatre alumni, and experience an array of Broadway and off-Broadway performances. Thanks to an Undergraduate Research Grant, students boarded the bus to New York on February 26 for a transformative week of discovering the theatre and themselves.

“Ideas in Performance was my favorite class of my entire college career. It helped me grow as an individual as well as prepared me for life after college. The lessons I learned in this class will stick with me my whole life.” “I was not prepared—in the best way possible—for how this class would affect me. I know that I have Joshua Bartosch ’16 come out of Ideas with a better understanding of myself, the things I want to achieve, and how I can accomplish my goals. This class opened my eyes to my limits and the ways in which I can push past those limits to get outside my comfort zone to grow as an artist.” Megan Khaziran ’17

“Taking Ideas in Performance was truly a life-changing experience. The research trip to New York City gave me the chance to meet with industry professionals in a capacity that I never could have imagined. The advice I got and conversations I had with them were revolutionary for me.” “I can say with great confidence that this class is one of Alexander Taggert ’16 self-discovery. I learned more about what I want as a theatre professional, as an artist, as a person, how I define success, and what steps I’ll need to take to get there.” Hayden Morrissett ’16

“Ideas in Performance was truly one of the best experiences of my life. Not only was it a one-of-akind experience, it also helped me network with individuals in the professional world. This experience definitely taught me how independent I really am.” Gwen Levey ’17 “Ideas in Performance has made a huge impact on not only who I am as a performer, but who I am as a person. I have grown in my level of confidence, professionalism, and work ethic. I do not think I would feel as prepared to enter the “real world” as I do now had I chosen to not take the class.” Austen Weathersby ’17

“Ideas in Performance has by far been the most interesting and informative class I have ever taken. The course has taught me how to analyze the current world of the theatre and how to connect it to bigger ideas. It has also taught me how to put myself out there and how to find my place in that world.” Michael Townsend ’17

22 students conducted 183 interviews in 10 days. Students experienced 16 Broadway and off-Broadway productions. Company members from Hamilton, The Humans, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, Kinky Boots, The King and I, and Fiddler on the Roof met with UMW students to share their professional experiences.

“The theatre faculty wants students to be a part of the department the day they step through the doors of duPont Hall. They care about us and always want to know how we are doing. I love the UMW Theatre family, and know I made the right decision coming here to pursue my love of theatre.” Morgan Gresham ’17

THEA 481: Resource Strategies in Arts Administration students with Nancy Askew Sheleheda ’91 (top), Betty Siegel (right center), Shayla Roland ’10 (left center), and Kieran Shaw ’15 (bottom)

In the spring of 2015 we partnered with PatronManager and transitioned to a new ticketing system that allows online and point-of-sale transactions. FredTix allows us to provide a higher level of customer service while giving our patrons 24-hour/day access to our ticket inventory. We are especially pleased because this system also provides valuable training that replicates professional practice for our all-student box office staff, many of whom begin their careers in a professional box office when they graduate. We handled more than 4,700 transactions through FredTix this season, 67% of them completely online.

ARTS ADMINISTRATION

MINOR

The Department of Theatre and Dance, in partnership with the College of Education, inaugurated a minor in Arts Administration in the fall of 2015. This interdisciplinary program combines coursework in arts administration, accounting, marketing, and management with practical experience through internships and practica. An initial cohort of 10 students declared the minor in 2015-16. A valuable component of the minor is connecting our students with professionals in the field. As a part of one of the minor’s foundation courses, THEA 481: Resource Strategies in Arts Administration, eight arts administrators (seven of whom were UMW Theatre alumni) shared insights with the students.

Jennifer Whiteside ’09, Annual Fund Manager, Richmond Ballet David Spry ’08, Director of Regional Marketing,

Broadway Across America @ The Marketing Division Nancy Sheleheda ’91, Senior Director of Application Development and Support Services, Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Shayla Roland ’10, Special Programming Manager, Ford’s Theatre Betty Siegel, Director of VSA & Accessibility, John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts Kieran Shaw ’15, Sales Associate, Shakespeare Theatre Company Amy Perdue ’82, Theatre Arts Specialist, Henrico County Ellen White ’14, Assistant Company Manager, Arena Stage

“I had no clue what Arts Administration was before I came to UMW and the Resource Strategies in Arts Administration class ended up being one of my favorite classes I have taken. I loved how interactive it was with class discussions and when alums working in the field came as guest speakers.” Cynthia Mullins ’18

“The theatre department at UMW continues to amaze me with the level of quality and professionalism in our shows and throughout the department. I have discovered a wide range of concentrations that I can follow, from acting to technical work, from design to arts administration. Coming from a high school with a small theatre program, this has fueled my interest in theatre.” Michael Townsend ’17

, and Amy Purdue ’82 Pat Seyller ’77, Seth Schrager ’82 Hour reminisce at the Reunion Happy

Sarah McCracken Henderson ’78

discovers herself in the archive

MARY WASHINGTON

THEATRE REUNION

“. . . strengthen the community we share . . .”

“What incredible memories with incredible friends. It was like time had never passed. It just proves that working together so closely and intensely, even if just for a few years, builds bonds not easily broken and memories that last forever.” Rob Powell ’79

In June, 40 alumni who graduated between 1976-1982 spent a Saturday walking around campus, touring duPont Hall and Klein Theatre, listening to department chair Gregg Stull talk about the department, and catching up with classmates they had not seen in years. Starting with coffee at Wonder Bread Studio and ending with happy hour on the Klein Theatre stage, these graduates shared an amazing day on campus.

Alumni ranging in grad years from 1976 to 1982 pose for a photo on the front steps of duPont Hall

“My first year has been extremely rewarding and challenging. My work this year has only made me more excited for the next three with the department.” Olivia Whicheloe ’19

“. . . pre-professional laboratory that blends theory and practice . . .” Olivia Whicheloe ’19, Abraham Shaikh ’19, and Aaron Hoffman ’19 in Avenue Q

MUSICAL THEATRE

SHOWCASE

Each spring our musical theatre students mark the end of the academic year with the Musical Theatre Showcase â&#x20AC;&#x201D;a free performance that students in THEA 335: Musical Theatre Performance rehearse and perform. This annual event has developed a loyal following as students share with an audience the pieces they have been learning throughout the semester with adjunct professor Christopher Wingert. Cathy Hoskins accompanies the showcase.

o following the showcase Students in THEA 335: Musical Theatre Performance pose for a phot

BROADWAY

WEEKEND On May 13, 14 UMW Theatre patrons and Jon K. Reynolds, director of marketing & audience services, boarded a train bound for New York to join UMW Theatre producing director Gregg Stull for Broadway Weekend. After checking into the astounding Times Square Marriott Marquis (and an arrival treat of Schmackaryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s famous cookies), the group braved the drizzle and walked to Playwrights Tavern for the kickoff dinner and then on to Lincoln Center to experience the glorious production of the Rodgers and Hammerstein classic, The King and I.

Broadway Weekend patr on

s with Natalie Joy Johnso

n â&#x20AC;&#x2122;00 backstage at Kinky

Boots

Sunshine prevailed on Saturday morning as Gregg led the group on a walking tour of Times Square while discussing the history of Broadway and New York theatre. After a few hours of free time, our theatregoers convened at the Barrymore Theatre for the provocative production of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time. Afterward, actor Nancy Robinette (who played Mrs. Alexander) greeted the group and talked with them about the show. The day continued at the Al Hirschfeld Theatre for the highenergy musical Kinky Boots. Natalie Joy Johnson â&#x20AC;&#x2122;00 (who played Pat) welcomed our Broadway Weekend patrons backstage for an amazing VIP tour. Before boarding the train back to Fredericksburg, our group celebrated the glorious weekend with brunch at the Bourbon Street Bar & Grille where Natalie made a surprise appearance and talked with everyone about her career and what itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s like to perform on Broadway. Broadway Weekend was a huge success!

r Gregg Stull leading a walking tou

of the theatre district

“. . . expanding the intellectual and emotional capacity of our students . . .”

We awarded 23 scholarships to 20 deserving students. Susan Mulholland Breedin ’86 Scholarship Vanessa Borg ’16 Albert R. Klein Memorial Scholarship Megan Khaziran ’17 Jessica Lane ’15 Ford Torney ’16 Arts for the Community Scholarship Alicia Austin ’16 Juliette Guilloux ’18 Rosemary Ingham Scholarship in Theatre Alicia Austin ’16 Amber Seagrave ’18 Keith Belli Scholarship in Theatre David Denyer ’16 Taylor Kiechlin ’17 Cynthia Mullins ’18 Hayden Morrissett ’17 Alexander Taggert ’16 Michael Townsend ’17 Julia Wells ’16 Nina Bushnell Scholarship Catherine O’Meara ’17 Alexander W. Holsinger Scholarship in Theatre Jackie Filicko ’16 Morgan Gresham ’17 Beverly Kippenhan ’17 Debby C. Klein Scholarship in Theatre Gwen Levey ’17 Cynthia Mullins ’18 Fred R. Winer Scholarship Jake Crowley ’16 Lee Wingate Pappandreou ’40 Scholarship Julia Wells ’16

Honors and Awards Robert E. Ingham Award in Theatre

awarded to the graduating student who has contributed substantially to the excellence of the academic and production programs Julia Wells

Honors in Theatre conferred by the faculty to those graduating students in recognition of academic excellence and extraordinary accomplishment in THEA 482: Senior Project Joshua Bartosch, Vanessa Borg, Megan Cadenas, Joshua Culhane, Hayden Morrissett, Maggie Murphy, Julia Wells

We received 204 individual gifts to Friends of Theatre—99 from first-time donors.

UMW THEATRE

SCHOLARS Margaret Lewis ’16 in Frozen

2015-16 Scholarship Recipients

“This department has taught me the importance of being true to myself and really taking the time to think about who I am and what I want to do. It also showed me that I can’t do everything on my own, and I have to be vulnerable enough to ask for help when I need it. I now know the importance of finding a field of study that I’m passionate about, and am ready to learn as much as I can about the theatre.” Ryan Poyner ’17

FRIENDS

OF THEATRE

12 individuals purchased seats to honor and remember loved ones, bringing the total of named seats in Klein Theatre to 44.

(gifts from July 1, 2015 to June 30, 2016)

Our heartfelt thanks to friends who make generous gifts that provide scholarships and other educational opportunities for our students. Patrons

($1,000-$9,999)

American Endowment Foundation William Boldon William C. Chaloner

Supporters

Roger Kenvin

Dr. Doug & Nancy Lorber ’79 Venitta McCall Laura Dick Mendelsohn ’81 Microsoft Corporation

MWC Brunch Crew Ruth Ellen Richardson ’57 Ted Tholen

Deborah A. Walker ’73 Elizabeth Hazen Williamson ’74 Janet F. Wishner

Col. & Mrs. Robert G. Hanus Paul & Victoria Hine Anna Geisler Hogan ’82 Mike & Joella Killian

Lucy Mancuso Lutterbie Mary Washington Elderstudy Allyson P. Moerman

Rappahannock Colonial Heritage Society, Inc. Norman & Karen Scanlon Mary Ann Stana & Jack Allison

John & Denise Symonds Marty & Vicky Wilder

Ms. Alice Flowers James & Jane Hart Frank & Susan Havens

Timothy Horn ’82 Peggy H. Johnson ’53 Debra S. Lang Allyson Moerman Jon ’07 & Samantha ’09 Reynolds

Cedric B. Rucker ’81 Joan Hughes Ryan ’67 Mary Anne Seidlinger Sheila Shadmand ’95 Elizabeth Andrews Wassem ’71

Archer & Tom Williams Elizabeth Hazen Williamson Wayne Wray & Alan Courtney

Alice Funkhouser Flowers ’65 Paul & Andi Gabler Michael & Suzanne Goldsmith Peggy & Roy Gratz Ms. Frances Jessee Whittaker & Eugenia Jones Ed & Cathy Kazanowski David & Marilyn Kelley Forrest & Kathleen Kennedy Paul & Kimberly Kiechlin Martha Kimball Roy & Lori Kissinger Christopher & Anne Knowlton

Karl & Donna Krueger Robert & Sally Kubarek Lee & Wendy Kump Mr. & Mrs. Michael McGovern Merck Company Foundation Jack & Barbara Miller John Mooney & Helen Baker

Lisa & Randy Savage Mary L. Scally Rosemary Stull Nancy Taubert Neva S. Trenis ’00 Peggy A. Verdine Midge & Sam Vittoria J.B. & Kathy Waltermire R L Widmann

Harvey & Roberta Gold Lynne Hartman Ruth Capen Hartmann ’42 John & Susan Harvin Rodney & Susan Hayzlett Keating Helfrich ’05 Mariya Hudick Ms. Frances Jessee Pamela Jewett-Bullock Stephen A. & Mary Johnson David & Mary Karcher Linda Kaup & William Schiller Donald & Bernie Kenneweg Barbara Kincaid Richard Lewis Vicki Lewis David & Dawn Little James Lynch Lynne McCay Carol McCrary Marianne McDermott Edward & Norma Kay McKinney Mary & Don Macnemar Elsie B. Mastin Edward & Dorothy Migliore

Reid Moffatt ’15 Mary Molter Patricia Moore Susan Oldach Eric L. Olsen ’82 Penny A. Parrish John & Wilhelmina Perrine Dawna Poyner Christie S. Pugh ’87 Kathleen Pyrce Elizabeth Rader Shea B. Rainey ’06 Don & Beck Reed Alan & Susan Reiter Lawrence & Cheryl Ricciardi William Rice Toni Roehl Linda C. Ryan ’72 Sally Sarkisian William Schiller & Linda Kaup Margaret Seibert Patricia Seibert-Siegel ’55 Polly Seifert Richard Shearer The Slezak Family

Matt & Christina ’05 Shutt Cooper

in memory of Albert Klein

Rebecca Klein

Edward & Sharon Minniear Gregg Stull & Brandon Prendergast

in honor of Debby Klein and in memory of Albert Klein

Girl Scouts

G.S.C.N.C. TOGA Girl Scouts

Duane & Nancy Hansen Richard Hurley in honor of Gregg Stull

($300 - $499)

Mary A. Bender ’94 Nancy Brothers Tim Erickson ’81 Charles & Loralee Falvey Richard Finkelstein & Meredith Fox

Donors

Mr. & Mrs. Scott C. Delaney Barbara Jarrett Gehr ’68 Mr. John Hoel

in honor of my 55th Reunion

($500-$999)

Bill & Donna D’Andrea Rob Eastman-Mullins ’00 Everett M., Jr. & Kathleen Geno