View All Items

Title: Directing Stop Kiss by Diana Son within a Nontraditional Training Model.
Creator: Dilks, Rebecca, Listengarten, Julia, Weaver, Earl, Wood, Vandy, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Despite the generally held view that the best way for a stage actor to give a strong theatrical performance is through a traditional training model, I hoped to develop a way for inexperienced actors to perform beyond expectation within the context of one production through a system of mentorship, expectation-setting, and tapping into young peoples' natural desire to identify with people and characters. I directed a production of Stop Kiss by Diana Son with a blend of experienced and...
Show moreDespite the generally held view that the best way for a stage actor to give a strong theatrical performance is through a traditional training model, I hoped to develop a way for inexperienced actors to perform beyond expectation within the context of one production through a system of mentorship, expectation-setting, and tapping into young peoples' natural desire to identify with people and characters. I directed a production of Stop Kiss by Diana Son with a blend of experienced and inexperienced actors to see if I could make this work, with mixed results. This thesis is a reflection on the process of directing Stop Kiss that was filled with multiple discoveries and challenges.
Show less
Date Issued: 2015
Identifier: CFE0005940, ucf:50824
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005940

Title: Synaesthetics.
Creator: Turner, Samantha, Listengarten, Julia, Wood, Vandy, Weaver, Earl, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Synaesthetics is a new philosophy of the arts. Expanding on its predecessors, aesthetics and its many branches of thought, Synaesthetics bridges the long-standing explanatory gap across the disciplines of science, spirituality, and art. The arts become the vehicle of exploring new ways to synthesize and study their cognitive effects and implications on aesthetes, be they audience or creators. The examination of a synthesis in color and sound, inspired by research in synaesthesia, is a model...
Show moreSynaesthetics is a new philosophy of the arts. Expanding on its predecessors, aesthetics and its many branches of thought, Synaesthetics bridges the long-standing explanatory gap across the disciplines of science, spirituality, and art. The arts become the vehicle of exploring new ways to synthesize and study their cognitive effects and implications on aesthetes, be they audience or creators. The examination of a synthesis in color and sound, inspired by research in synaesthesia, is a model for explaining the new philosophy, as well as investigating its impact. Theatre is introduced as the most valuable art form with which to engage this area of thought, due to its inclusive nature of all sister artforms. Pulling from a strong philosophical background, quantum physics, psychology, neuroscience, and esotericism are compounded to create this new lens, with which to interpret, study, and evolve in a dialectical manner. The hypothesis posits a spiritually significant evolution, utilizing these elements of science and a framework of the arts; the methodological accomplishment ultimately reached through Synaesthetics.
Show less
Date Issued: 2017
Identifier: CFE0006960, ucf:51640
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006960

Title: Giving Theatrical Life.
Creator: Darrington, Quentin, Boyd, Belinda, Shafer, John, McDonald, Holly, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: An experience, early in my life, at the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center opened my eyes to the transformative power of Theatre - it would shape my ambitions for performance, inform the choices I made about my acting career, and impel my passions. That single moment had a profound and lasting effect on my soul, one that would ultimately point me to the purpose of (")me;(") but what exactly was it? What transaction occurred between the performers on stage, and myself, and others in attendance...
Show moreAn experience, early in my life, at the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center opened my eyes to the transformative power of Theatre - it would shape my ambitions for performance, inform the choices I made about my acting career, and impel my passions. That single moment had a profound and lasting effect on my soul, one that would ultimately point me to the purpose of (")me;(") but what exactly was it? What transaction occurred between the performers on stage, and myself, and others in attendance that evening?My life as an actor has been an incredible journey of growth. Over forty-six U.S. states, and abroad, I have performed in Broadway musicals, stage plays, concerts, recordings, cabarets, as part of political campaigns and sporting events, and in universities, schools, and churches. Acting has fundamentally changed the way I see people, and challenges the way I learn, express and see myself. As my imagination, creativity, and craft has grown, I remain profoundly impacted by my experience in Tampa, and I have often wondered exactly what happened that evening? Did it have anything to do with the synesthetic elements of the performance (-) the lights, sounds, or scenery? Was it specifically the music, the voices, the amazing singers? Perhaps it was the daring acting and story. Did it depend on particular foreknowledge or familiarity of skill, or craft? Was it something that happened by chance, or by design? Was it because of me? Or did it, somehow, override everything I was at the time? Was it something intangible that is present at some, or all, theatrical events that enlivened the experience? This paper seeks to provide answers to some of these questions. My process in seeking answers will be to chronicle my own life experience as a person/artist. Having begun a script a couple of years ago, I decided to return to solo performance as a means to help me determine what made the experience I related so memorable. The attempt is to write and perform a solo performance piece that chronicles the foundation of this incredible journey of growth, while shedding light on the initial Tampa experience. My intention is to gain an understanding about something I believe contributes to (")theatrical spirituality.(") I believe that the unique blending of the script and the interpretation of these words through acting can impart life. The combined force of the power of story and the spoken word can cause something tangible, something good, meaningful and of intrinsic worth to happen in an individual or audience as a result of a performance. It is my belief that the formation, articulation and expression of that understanding represents, in part, my acting philosophy (-) what I do and why I do it. In a broader and more important sense, however, it also represents my understanding of who I am and why I am.
Show less
Date Issued: 2016
Identifier: CFE0006094, ucf:51194
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006094

Title: Playing Back Spirituality: Using Applied Theatre Practice for Spiritual Exploration an Meaningful Community Building in College.
Creator: Kinnebrew, Ann, Wood, Vandy, Listengarten, Julia, StClaire, Sybil, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: ABSTRACTHigher Education in the U.S. today is experiencing a theoretical and practical shift toward educating the (")whole person(") and to that end, is investigating ways to include spirituality in all facets of the academy. This requires focusing on the concept that (")in addition to material knowledge, spiritual, emotional, and ethical knowledge is imparted to students(") (Khan 2009). Many colleges and universities are searching for avenues to answer this call and better prepare students...
Show moreABSTRACTHigher Education in the U.S. today is experiencing a theoretical and practical shift toward educating the (")whole person(") and to that end, is investigating ways to include spirituality in all facets of the academy. This requires focusing on the concept that (")in addition to material knowledge, spiritual, emotional, and ethical knowledge is imparted to students(") (Khan 2009). Many colleges and universities are searching for avenues to answer this call and better prepare students as business, political and social leaders in a new millennia that defines religion very differently than it did twenty years ago. Today, students are exposed to a much wider array of organized religions from all over the globe. Additionally, the very definitions of religion and spirituality have undergone a seismic shift making it difficult for colleges to incorporate a religious or spiritual focus into curriculum.More and more people are cobbling together their own unique combinations of religious ideas, practices, experiences and core values from a variety of religious and non-religious sources. The term 'spirituality' is sometimes used to describe this new do-it-yourself faith...To be 'spiritual' understood in this sense, is to have deeply held convictions, and anyone can have those kinds of heartfelt allegiances. This new ambiguity about what counts as religion or spirituality makes it virtually impossible to keep religion out of higher education. (Jacobsen and Jacobsen 2012)Research on the subject of religion and spirituality indicates that this is a point of major concern for many young American college students who are searching for personal and social significance. (Arnett 2000a; Astin, et al. 2011; Jacobsen and Jacobsen 2012)iiiThis study asserts that college students enter a unique stage of development known as emerging adulthood (Arnett 2000a) that calls for increased focus on meaning making and identity formation. In an effort to meet the individual and institutional need for spiritual exploration, this study will offer specific applied theatre practices that connect theories in theatre, psychology, student development and leadership designed to serve the emerging adult population as part of a holistic educational vision. This study confirms the feasibility of such a program by a detailed examination of specific theatre techniques and, in particular, the adaptation of Playback Theatre as the most viable form for inner life exploration and campus community building. A formal investigation into the efficacy of theatrical methods is called for as validation of theories and practices offered here. It is my hope that this research will encourage campus-wide awareness of theatre's utility and application to a wider range of students. By recognizing the need to educate the (")whole person("), institutions of Higher Education can give students the best possible preparation for a full and meaningful adult life through theatre practices uniquely designed for the purpose of inner life exploration and awareness.Key Implications: new areas of application for Applied Theatre Studies; collaborative opportunities for college theatre departments and student services, expansion of campus wide-visibility and understanding of theatre arts, feasibility for attending to student inner life needs and student community building through theatre.
Show less
Date Issued: 2016
Identifier: CFE0006128, ucf:51161
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006128

Title: Almost Mirror Image: Exploring The Similarities And Dissimilarities Of Identical Twins In Theatrical Solo Performance.
Creator: Mignacca, Elizabeth, Boyd, Belinda, Ingram, Kate, McDonald, Holly, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Almost Mirror Image: Exploring the Similarities and Dissimilarities of Identical Twins in Theatrical Solo Performance Is an exploration of the psyche of identical twins within the context of devised solo performance. The author, an identical twin herself, has long been interested in twins' ability to cultivate both highly independent personalities as well as intensely co-dependent tendencies during development. What can twins tell us about the way we create close relationships and how is...
Show moreAlmost Mirror Image: Exploring the Similarities and Dissimilarities of Identical Twins in Theatrical Solo Performance Is an exploration of the psyche of identical twins within the context of devised solo performance. The author, an identical twin herself, has long been interested in twins' ability to cultivate both highly independent personalities as well as intensely co-dependent tendencies during development. What can twins tell us about the way we create close relationships and how is their upbringing radically different from the majority of the world that is born alone? Equally intrigued by society's growing technological dependence, the author would like to delve into how the science and development of twins appears counterintuitive to the intra-personal technological world they grow up in by using personal, autobiographic solo performance as her research platform. The data collected from research sources such as Jo Bonney's Extreme Exposure and Michael Kearns' The Solo Performer's Journey, will provide fodder for the thesis document and the author's devised solo piece, entitled Teach me how to be Lonely. While devising her own solo performance, the author will compare and contrast her process with that of a few select solo performers such as Anna Deavere Smith and Rachel Rosenthal. The author will delve into various styles of solo work creation, including the testimony plays of Smith and the autobiographical style of Rosenthal, in order to view her own work with a self-reflective and identity-driven lens. Overall, the author hopes to achieve a more comprehensive understanding of her own experience as an identical twin through the facilitation of her solo work as well as explore how the creation of solo performance can offer artists in the 21st century more freedom of expression and identity than the performance of a standard play.
Show less
Date Issued: 2015
Identifier: CFE0005668, ucf:50184
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005668

Title: REFLECTIONS: A THEATRICAL JOURNEY INTO THE LIVES OF ADOLESCENT GIRLS.
Creator: Page, Leah, Boyd, Belinda, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Adolescence is a difficult time for young women. Their bodies are changing and they are being asked to conform to a new set of feminine standards if they are to be accepted (Pipher 39). Studies have found that girls experience a decrease in self-esteem during this time. They are less likely to speak their minds openly and honestly, which can lead to depression and a feeling of falseness. As young women attempt to comprehend this turbulent time in their lives, they often find strength through...
Show moreAdolescence is a difficult time for young women. Their bodies are changing and they are being asked to conform to a new set of feminine standards if they are to be accepted (Pipher 39). Studies have found that girls experience a decrease in self-esteem during this time. They are less likely to speak their minds openly and honestly, which can lead to depression and a feeling of falseness. As young women attempt to comprehend this turbulent time in their lives, they often find strength through positive relationships with others as well as from their own knowledge and self-awareness. Reflections is a one-woman show that investigates the current challenges associated with adolescence. The play uses short monologues as well as songs from musical theatre repertoire to tell the story of three separate and unique women. The protagonist of Reflections is an eleven-year-old girl whose personality and sense of self changes drastically during the course of the show. At the beginning of the show, she speaks her mind freely and openly and is unafraid to express her true feelings. When she discovers there are consequences to acting this way, she immediately alters her behavior to ensure her peers accept her. When she witnesses her sister's strength and becomes aware of her mother's intelligence, she realizes she no longer wants to act in ways that do not reflect her true feelings. Her sixteen-year-old sister wants so badly to be accepted that she has begun altering her appearance in dangerous ways in order to fit in. Their mother is struggling to comprehend how to raise two daughters in a culture that does little to support and nurture adolescent girls. Reflections: A Theatrical Look at the Lives of Adolescent Girls outlines each characters distinct journey, using research and analysis to support their stories. In the end it offers advice on how to prevent young women from losing their sense of self during adolescence. This part of the document will present a companion piece to the production in the form of a theatre workshop. This workshop will give young women the opportunity to explore important issues in a safe space. Participants will be able to express their thoughts and feelings without fear of retribution and can begin to investigate ways to challenge social forces that oppress them.
Show less
Date Issued: 2007
Identifier: CFE0001746, ucf:47295
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0001746

Title: SWEAT: THE EXODUS FROM PHYSICAL AND MENTAL ENSLAVEMENT TO EMOTIONAL AND SPIRITUAL LIBERATION.
Creator: Roberson, Aqueelah, Chase, Diane, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The purpose of this thesis is to showcase the importance of God-inspired Theatre and to manifest the transformative effects of living in accordance to the Word of God. In order to share my vision for theatre such as this, I will examine the biblical elements in Zora Neale Hurston's short story Sweat (1926). I will write a stage adaptation of the story, while placing emphasis on the biblical lessons that can be used for God-inspired Theatre. When viewing the stage adaptation based on Sweat...
Show moreThe purpose of this thesis is to showcase the importance of God-inspired Theatre and to manifest the transformative effects of living in accordance to the Word of God. In order to share my vision for theatre such as this, I will examine the biblical elements in Zora Neale Hurston's short story Sweat (1926). I will write a stage adaptation of the story, while placing emphasis on the biblical lessons that can be used for God-inspired Theatre. When viewing the stage adaptation based on Sweat, the audience members will understand how God-inspired Theatre aims to help members of society utilize their gifts and abilities to assist others in achieving spiritual stability. The members of the audience will also be informed of my vision to use this piece to inspire others to embrace cultural awareness and sensitivity. This is my vision--helping others to walk in their God-ordained destiny. With this in mind, I am using Sweat as a proposed play because it is closely related to the creation account as recorded in the Old Testament Book of Genesis. In this play, Adam and Eve are replaced with the characters Sykes and Delia Jones. The creation account is a very influential testimony because it is known throughout humanity. Its popularity is due to the fact that the Old Testament is the commencement of the Christian Bible. For those of the Jewish faith, the collection encompasses the Torah, the first five books of the bible--the law for everyday living-- as well as the history of God's promise to them. For Christians, the Old Testament is just as sacred, but they view its religious meaning as incomplete without the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ detailed in the New Testament. Also, Muslims trace their religious roots to some of the figures in the Old Testament although they deny the religious significance of the work as a whole. In essence, the Old Testament is crucial to Western Civilization. This is why Sweat is so powerful. It takes an extremely familiar testimony and shares pertinent messages that help people to become productive members of society. In order to show how effective Sweat is in helping others to live spirit-filled lives, I will use creative staging that will place the characters in the personal space of the audience members. I will achieve this by: having the actors enter and exit from the audience; allowing certain scenes to take place within the audience; and having the actors deliver some lines to various audience members. I feel that by making the audience a part of the production, it will cause them to see that they are not any different from the characters in the play. At some point in their lives, theatergoers have encountered--or been intimate with--an Adam, an Eve, a Sykes or a Delia. This will cause them to not see Sweat as just a play, but as a valuable life lesson, triggering self-examination and initiating renovated thinking that helps people to become culturally aware and spiritually sound. It is imperative that the biblical messages in Sweat are conspicuous. Whereas the narrator normally describes Delia's facial expression or feelings, I plan to write in scenes where her thoughts are audible. Some of her thoughts will include moments when she is praising and worshipping God. This is apparent because she starts to emerge as a woman of strength as the story progresses. Her relationship with God is cultivated on a daily basis. This is why she is able to tolerate her husband's foolishness. Her husband, Sykes, does not commune with God. To demonstrate his lack of communion with God, I will stage him being resistant to her times of worship--as he normally is according to the narrator. Clearly, the marriage is unbalanced. One partner is trying to please God, and the other is trying to please self. This is not how God intended marriage to be. In the New Testament Book First Peter, it states in the third chapter and seventh verse "husbands are to dwell with them in understanding, giving honor to the wife … being heirs together of the grace of life." Showing the burdensome consequences of destructing God's original design will pull on the hearts of audience members because they have encountered or known someone who is presently dealing with the consequences of this disobedient act. I will further reiterate the need for living a spirit-filled life by using costumes, scenic devices, and lighting to convey the godly and ungodly character traits that are embodied within the story. Through the use of colors and patterns, I will project the internal state of the character as in relation to God's instructions. I will work with a lighting designer in order to help convey the moods of the various scenes. The lighting techniques we choose will help to establish the thoughts and personalities of the characters. These feelings will transcend the minds of the audience and cause them to take the biblical messages into very deep consideration. The actors are the final ingredients in making Sweat an awe-inspiring, informative piece. Words are what they are, what one perceives them to be, while on paper. It is the job of the actor to give life to these words, cause them to live in the atmosphere, and to make the character come alive. Until the actor embodies the very heart of a character, the message in God-inspired Theatre will not be able to come forth and propel audience members to have a spiritual awakening. This is why people cannot just read Sweat. They must see the trials and journeys in order to receive life-changing revelations from the testimonies within the play.
Show less
Date Issued: 2007
Identifier: CFE0001702, ucf:47329
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0001702

Title: "WHO AM I?": A SEARCH FOR AMERICA'S IDENTITY THROUGH THEATRE FOR SOCIAL CHANGE.
Creator: Bliznik, Sean, Listengarten, Julia, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Theatre has always existed as a didactic tool to educate society about society's own successes, failures, and foibles. The theatre and theatre artists have attempted to take society's interpretation of truth and place it on the stage for all to see and experience. Sometimes, theatre creates and performs its own truth in place of society's accepted truth by re-examining pre-existing societal constructs and creating an interpretation of truth that better represents the current state...
Show moreTheatre has always existed as a didactic tool to educate society about society's own successes, failures, and foibles. The theatre and theatre artists have attempted to take society's interpretation of truth and place it on the stage for all to see and experience. Sometimes, theatre creates and performs its own truth in place of society's accepted truth by re-examining pre-existing societal constructs and creating an interpretation of truth that better represents the current state of affairs as the theatre sees it. Therefore, theatre becomes the mode by which society learns, explores, refutes, and at times, even dismisses accepted societal truths. As a didactic tool, it is in this vein of truth-seeking that theatre has entered the fickle work of social change. First and foremost, what is social change? Who can create change? How is this change measured? How does one measure the effected change on a particular audience? These questions (and more) as well as their subsequent answers are the job of the social change theatre artist and are explored in this study. This thesis is presented in several distinct chapters. Chapters one and two examine the foundations of theatre for social change and its place in the contemporary theatre world. Chapter three explores writing theatre for social change and yields the development of two original theatrical pieces of theater for social change as a direct result of the aforementioned research complete with a stage presentation of those pieces and an audience assessment (before the performance). The concluding chapters explore the results of the audience survey which explains my understanding of theatre for social change's effect on society and the need for society to continually be exposed to theatre which is socially conscious and contributive in order to firmly define America's socially conscious theatrical identity.
Show less
Date Issued: 2007
Identifier: CFE0001730, ucf:47314
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0001730

Title: SHARING THE TRUE COLORS:AN EXPLORATION OF THEATRE CREATED BY GAY, LESBIAN, BISEXUAL, AND TRANSGENDER YOUTH.
Creator: Bazo, Nicholas, Boyd, Belinda, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: True Colors: Out Youth Theater at The Theater Offensive is a Boston based program that focuses its theatrical and social mission on engaging Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgendered (GLBT) at-risk, youth and the community that surrounds them. Through the process of generating an original touring production, True Colors employs theatre as a tool for personal, social, and artistic expression, empowerment, and activism. The programÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â‚Ã&...
Show moreTrue Colors: Out Youth Theater at The Theater Offensive is a Boston based program that focuses its theatrical and social mission on engaging Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgendered (GLBT) at-risk, youth and the community that surrounds them. Through the process of generating an original touring production, True Colors employs theatre as a tool for personal, social, and artistic expression, empowerment, and activism. The programÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â‚ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚Â's balance of both process and product focused goals creates an environment of multifaceted engagement and provides an example of how art can thrive in a structure of youth outreach. Though directors and facilitators guide the process and final product, a fundamental mission of True Colors is to provide a student or youth-centered experience where inspiration, decisions, discussions, and leadership generates directly from participants. By observing and participating in the creation of one of these productions, I explore the impact of this student-centered structure on the personal perspectives and artistic growth of the GLBT participants and the artistic process of creating the production. My goal is to discover True ColorsÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â‚ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚Â' effectiveness of achieving its mission to both create an impactful and positive process for the youth and also develop a final product that is artful and evokes social change. Additionally, by studying similar programs, I establish a basis of comparison against True Colors in order to develop a broader view of the field and evaluate the variances in methodology and the impact on youth and communities.
Show less
Date Issued: 2010
Identifier: CFE0003167, ucf:48605
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0003167

Title: Rebirth of the Renaissance Man: Creating Actor Agency through Ensemble Theatre.
Creator: Grassett, Kody, Ingram, Kate, Thomas, Aaron, Reed, David, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Contemporary models of educational and commercial theatres espouse the belief that theatre is the true collaborative art form: one in which artists of different talents, training programs, and experiences can come together to briefly create something more significant than themselves. However, as the theatre has moved into the twenty-first century, the ensemble nature that is so unique to theatrical performance is frequently abandoned for a streamlined top-down structure of theatre making, one...
Show moreContemporary models of educational and commercial theatres espouse the belief that theatre is the true collaborative art form: one in which artists of different talents, training programs, and experiences can come together to briefly create something more significant than themselves. However, as the theatre has moved into the twenty-first century, the ensemble nature that is so unique to theatrical performance is frequently abandoned for a streamlined top-down structure of theatre making, one in which monetary, scheduling, and efficiency concerns inhibit the true creation of an ensemble. For multi-faceted theatre artists who have interest and talents in more than one field of the theatre, the current reigning structure of theatrical creation can seem restrictive, even reductive to their creative potentials. In this thesis, I explore a revived form of theatrical creation centered around the concept of the total ensemble artist, or the modern-day equivalent to the Renaissance man, an artist and student of many different passions. By developing a model of theatrical creation that allows and encourages an actor's agency in the creative process, I hope to show that the ensemble approach to theatre making, in which actors must work together to create and support a production in intimate and challenging ways, is beneficial and necessary to both theatre artists and the audiences that come to view theatrical productions. Rather than being limited to the confines of the categorized and structured model of commercial theatre, these artists will be able to work together to create individualized, meaningful stories on stage that allow the theatre to remain influential, relevant, and representational of our collective experiences.
Show less
Date Issued: 2017
Identifier: CFE0006943, ucf:51667
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006943

Title: Digesting Modern Acting Theory for Young Performers.
Creator: Yagel, Brandon, Wood, Mary, Boyd, Belinda, Routhier, Mark, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: An actor seeking to improve his craft can find numerous sources containing countless tips and techniques on the art of acting. However, the majority of these books target the adult actor often leaving young performers struggling to understand complex acting theory. With the goals of creating a nurturing learning environment and quality performance work within a compact rehearsal schedule, this thesis project created and evaluated a new synthesis of modern acting theory for directors to use...
Show moreAn actor seeking to improve his craft can find numerous sources containing countless tips and techniques on the art of acting. However, the majority of these books target the adult actor often leaving young performers struggling to understand complex acting theory. With the goals of creating a nurturing learning environment and quality performance work within a compact rehearsal schedule, this thesis project created and evaluated a new synthesis of modern acting theory for directors to use when working with young performers. This technique adapted and coalesced several perspectives on foundational acting theory(-)specifically looking at the use of a character's wants and actions as described by Bruder et al., Caldarone (&) Lloyd-Williams, Cohen, Jory, Mamet, and Stanislavski. I tested the developed technique using an independent production of The Cat Who Ran by Naoko Kudo performed by a group of seventh through tenth grade actors.This thesis shares the process of creating this rehearsal tool with its readers. This process included researching and synthesizing the technique, documenting my process as director and acting coach for The Cat Who Ran, testing the technique throughout the production of The Cat Who Ran, evaluating the effectiveness of the technique through qualitative observation from production team and audience members, and theorizing the potential effectiveness for other scripts. The documentation of the project includes surveys, worksheets, text analysis, and production photos.
Show less
Date Issued: 2014
Identifier: CFE0005278, ucf:50562
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005278

Title: DEVELOPING THE INDIVIDUAL TO STRENGTHEN THE WHOLE: THE APPLICATION OF VIEWPOINTS TRAINING TO IMPACT THE SOCIAL COGNITIVE DEVELOPMENT OF ACTORS IN A HIGH SCHOOL ENSEMBLE.
Creator: Horn, Elizabeth, Listengarten, Julia, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: This research explores the application of Viewpoints and Composition training with a cast of high school students to measure changes in the social cognitive development (SCD) of individuals and the collective group. The research centers on the writing of Michael F. Mascolo and Deborah Margolis, which takes a coactive approach to the relationship between oneÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â‚ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚Â's social cognitive development...
Show moreThis research explores the application of Viewpoints and Composition training with a cast of high school students to measure changes in the social cognitive development (SCD) of individuals and the collective group. The research centers on the writing of Michael F. Mascolo and Deborah Margolis, which takes a coactive approach to the relationship between oneÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â‚ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚Â's social cognitive development and how it is manifested in his or her actions within a social group. Using this framework, the researcher assesses the personality types within the cast and analyzes how utilizing Viewpoints training creates shifts within these personalities. The researcher approaches this study from both a theoretical standpoint as a student during a two-week intensive training course for adults with SITI Company, and a practical standpoint in the direction of a fully mounted production with high school actors. The objective of the research is to propose a method to implement advanced Viewpoints training within a high school ensemble in order to cultivate ensemble and ultimately aid the social cognitive development of the individual actors.
Show less
Date Issued: 2010
Identifier: CFE0002996, ucf:47936
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0002996

Title: The Living Hashtag Play: A Modernized Living Newspaper with Theatre of the Oppressed Approaches to Play Development.
Creator: Corsi, Elizabeth, Boyd, Belinda, McDonald, Holly, Brown, James, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: In a time where the majority of our news sources and justice movements are received, hashtagged, mobilized, and scrutinized through technology and social media, this thesis embarks to resurrect a once short lived concept of introducing theatre as an informative and educational news source. ?The Hashtag Play ?will be an experiment to create a modern living newspaper play that will utilize techniques and approaches found in Augusto Boal's Theatre of the Oppressed Pedagogy to devise meaningful...
Show moreIn a time where the majority of our news sources and justice movements are received, hashtagged, mobilized, and scrutinized through technology and social media, this thesis embarks to resurrect a once short lived concept of introducing theatre as an informative and educational news source. ?The Hashtag Play ?will be an experiment to create a modern living newspaper play that will utilize techniques and approaches found in Augusto Boal's Theatre of the Oppressed Pedagogy to devise meaningful and impactful art determined to educate, inform, and challenge artists and audiences while fostering a sense of community. For the purpose of this thesis, I will be focusing on the issues of sexual violence in America, investigating such cases as People of the State of California v. Brock Allen Turner, ?and the prosecutions of Harvey Weinstein and David Daniels. These cases, among many, have ignited the movements of #MeToo, #TimesUp, and #Let's Be Clear, which have affected men and women within local communities across the U.S.The goal of the project is to create a piece that improves upon the original Federal Theatre Project's Living Newspaper while creating an impactful tool to be utilized in the field of theatre for social change. The play will explore both sides of each trial to expand audience perspective, while attempting to define the blurred lines that surround the complexities and narratives of sexual assault, harassment, and consent. The project implores the questioning of rape culture, how it is defined and if it truly exists in our social climate. The process ventures to identify systematic flaws and social contributors while seeking solutions for social and justice change. It will scrutinize over the presence and purpose of sexual violence within art, while questioning if it is viable to separate art from the artist, or forgive the art and condemn its creator. It will grapple with the challenge of remaining neutral for the sake of education and news delivery. Most importantly, it will be inclusive to all voices, challenging us to use passion and discussion, instead of argument and aggression. To effect a change, the work must first set to identify, clarify, and challenge our former notions to create improved ones that encourage thoughtful and proactive actions.
Show less
Date Issued: 2019
Identifier: CFE0007795, ucf:52337
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007795

Title: ANYTHING BUT CRAZY: HOW AMERICAN MUSICAL THEATRE CAN CHANGE SOCIETAL STIGMAS AGAINST MENTAL ILLNESSES.
Creator: Walton, Benjamin, Weaver, Earl, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: There is a societal stigma that villainizes or degrades anyone diagnosed or associated with any mental illness. While many different forms of media have attempted to destroy this stigma through psycho-centric narratives, I wanted to argue that musical theatre has the greatest potential as a live entertainment source to deconstruct and reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness. For my research, I theorized that musical theatre can most effectively change societal stigma about mental illness...
Show moreThere is a societal stigma that villainizes or degrades anyone diagnosed or associated with any mental illness. While many different forms of media have attempted to destroy this stigma through psycho-centric narratives, I wanted to argue that musical theatre has the greatest potential as a live entertainment source to deconstruct and reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness. For my research, I theorized that musical theatre can most effectively change societal stigma about mental illness by communicating a clear understanding of the disease through music, and achieving popularity in the public eye longer than other live forms of theatre. I chose to focus on four of those musicals: Lady in the Dark by Moss Hart, Kurt Weill, and Ira Gershwin which talks about depression and anxiety in the 1940s; Spring Awakening, adapted from Frank Wedekind's original play by Steven Sater and Duncan Sheik, which discusses depression and suicidal tendencies, specifically in students; Next to Normal by Brian Yorkey and Tom Kitt which revolves around bipolar disorder; and Dear Evan Hansen by Steven Levenson, Benj Pasek, and Justin Paul which talks about the prevalence of anxiety disorders in society. With this thesis I wanted to further the progression of destigmatizating mental illnesses through the medium of musical theatre. Through an analysis of these well-known musicals that focus on mental illnesses and the psychological research that follows, I proposed a short song cycle that continues this evolution of mental illness musicals. Through this process, I theorized that musical theatre will decrease the stigma surrounding mental illnesses and will promote treatment and care when dealing with mental illnesses.
Show less
Date Issued: 2018
Identifier: CFH2000321, ucf:45842
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000321

Title: THE WOW FACTOR: LESBIAN REPRESENTATION AND IMPACT IN LATE-20TH CENTURY THEATRE.
Creator: Maginness, Brenna L, Wood, Vandy, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The intent of this thesis is to investigate the influence of 1980's and 1990's lesbian playwrights on modern queer representation in theatre. By analyzing the successful works of troupes and artists born out of the Women's One World (WOW) Cafe, it became apparent that the greatest changes in lesbian portrayal on stage came from queer and feminist authorship. Additionally, WOW Cafe became the common denominator in the success of many lesbian playwrights due to the freedom it gave its writers...
Show moreThe intent of this thesis is to investigate the influence of 1980's and 1990's lesbian playwrights on modern queer representation in theatre. By analyzing the successful works of troupes and artists born out of the Women's One World (WOW) Cafe, it became apparent that the greatest changes in lesbian portrayal on stage came from queer and feminist authorship. Additionally, WOW Cafe became the common denominator in the success of many lesbian playwrights due to the freedom it gave its writers and performers. As an independent theatre, WOW allowed its members to experiment with few rules, and offered a stage to pieces too experimental, feminist, or queer to see commercial Broadway success. Thesis discussion includes analysis of historically homophobic theatre, the techniques and topics conveyed in the work of The Five Lesbian Brothers and Split Britches, and the importance of WOW as a stepping stone for the success of plays like Lisa Kron's Well. Lesbian-centric work is often left out of theatre history in classrooms even today, and by diving deeper into the important history of queer women in drama, the intent of this thesis is to add to the academia in a way that helps future lesbian artists, performers, and students recognize themselves in the narrative.
Show less
Date Issued: 2019
Identifier: CFH2000483, ucf:45787
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000483

Title: THE CHORUS: A LINE TO CROSS.
Creator: Santiago, Marco, Huaixiang, Tan, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: ABSTRACT This thesis project will provide an in depth examination into the musical theater role of Paul, the male Puerto Rican dancer in A Chorus Line, as performed by Marco Antonio Santiago. The performance will take place at Cohoes Musical Theater in Albany, New York. This examination will reveal how the application of Stanislavski's methods on acting and his views in preparing a character can be used on musical theatre roles to achieve well rounded, fully developed and completely...
Show moreABSTRACT This thesis project will provide an in depth examination into the musical theater role of Paul, the male Puerto Rican dancer in A Chorus Line, as performed by Marco Antonio Santiago. The performance will take place at Cohoes Musical Theater in Albany, New York. This examination will reveal how the application of Stanislavski's methods on acting and his views in preparing a character can be used on musical theatre roles to achieve well rounded, fully developed and completely believable characters. The thesis will contain a structural analysis of the script, scene and role analysis, a performance journal to log the growth/challenges of each role, and other vital information charting the application of Stanislavski's methods on acting. In addition to Stanislavski's methods other well known acting teachers and their methods such as Richard Boleslavski and Sanford Meisner, will be viewed and applied throughout the process. Furthermore, a performance critique/analysis will be provided by Lani Harris, Tan Huaixiang, and Nicholas Wuehrmann, who serve as the acting committee members for this thesis project. The role of Paul helps propel the action of the play forward allowing the audience to truly realize the themes provided by the playwright, lyricist, and composer. This thesis project will reveal that an actor's training can be applied in almost any venue of theatre in some form or fashion and successfully make a well-rounded character.
Show less
Date Issued: 2006
Identifier: CFE0001415, ucf:47035
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0001415

Title: THE DESIGN PROCESS AS ASSISTANT ART DIRECTOR FOR THE FILM NATIONAL LAMPOON'S ROBODOC.
Creator: Davis, Cecil, Scott, Hubert, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: In this thesis, I will detail and analyze the production design processes for National Lampoon's RoboDoc, written by Douglas Gordon M.D., filmed and produced in Orlando, Universal Studios and Ormond Beach, FL, as experienced through the art department. The direction of the thesis will be based on how a background in architecture and theatre guides the design motivation(s) within a production team for film. My documentation will include a process journal written throughout the production...
Show moreIn this thesis, I will detail and analyze the production design processes for National Lampoon's RoboDoc, written by Douglas Gordon M.D., filmed and produced in Orlando, Universal Studios and Ormond Beach, FL, as experienced through the art department. The direction of the thesis will be based on how a background in architecture and theatre guides the design motivation(s) within a production team for film. My documentation will include a process journal written throughout the production of the film to include design meeting topics, research and design inspiration, sketches, budget and location concerns, coordination of scenic elements, crew team coordination, paperwork, and thoughts on working within the art department team as well as working with other teams of production. Photographic records will include pre-production allocation and storage, load-in scenarios, set construction, and final design in set and set dressing. Final comments will be based on a personal evaluation, evidence of my progression throughout the production, and how an advanced focus in design through education and practice affected the project.
Show less
Date Issued: 2007
Identifier: CFE0001647, ucf:47232
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0001647

Title: TORAH, TRADITION, AND TRINA: ANALYSIS AND DEVELOPMENT OF TRINA IN WILLIAM FINN'S FALSETTOS FROM A FAITH-BASED PERSPECTIVE.
Creator: Jeffreys, Margaret-Ellen, Chicurel, Steven, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: When an actor approaches a character, s/he examines many facets of the play--the setting, the time period, the politics surrounding both of the former. S/he also looks into elements of the character--any noted physical attributes in the text, his/her financial and social status, what s/he wants and what obstacles are standing in his/her way. Often the last thing that the actor studies is the character's spiritual and/or religious life. When I was cast as Trina in UCF's production of...
Show moreWhen an actor approaches a character, s/he examines many facets of the play--the setting, the time period, the politics surrounding both of the former. S/he also looks into elements of the character--any noted physical attributes in the text, his/her financial and social status, what s/he wants and what obstacles are standing in his/her way. Often the last thing that the actor studies is the character's spiritual and/or religious life. When I was cast as Trina in UCF's production of Falsettos in the winter of 2005, I knew I wanted to approach the character from an oft-neglected area: her faith. Judaism is a vital element of William Finn's Falsettos, and in an attempt to be true to what I believed was Finn's intentional, prominent inclusion of this religion, its practice, and the stigmas that come along with being a Jew, and especially a Jewish woman, I planned to focus on Trina's Judaism. An historical analysis of the changing role of Jewish women through time, complete with a focus on Jewish rituals, practices, and routines, will provide details of the generations of history that precede Trina and shape her opinions about the world, herself, and what she "should" be. An analysis of the plot and characters of Falsettos will describe the world in which Trina lives; my rehearsal journal from the production will chart my progress of developing my portrayal of Trina, and a comparison between Trina and Sarah in the Torah will indicate Sarah as a possible "role model" for Trina.
Show less
Date Issued: 2009
Identifier: CFE0002546, ucf:47667
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0002546

Title: MOBY DICK! THE MUSICAL: A TRAVESTY IN TRAVESTI.
Creator: Johnson, Rebecca, Weaver, Earl, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Moby Dick! The Musical is a comedic parody based on Herman Melville's 1955 classic novel Moby Dick about a madman who seeks revenge on the great white whale that crippled his body and consumed his spirit. The thesis role I have chosen is "Starbuck", the ship's first mate. If this were a dramatic telling of the classic tale, my role would be considered an absurdity for the sure-known fact that Starbuck is a male character. However, since Moby Dick! The Musical is a spoof that features a play...
Show moreMoby Dick! The Musical is a comedic parody based on Herman Melville's 1955 classic novel Moby Dick about a madman who seeks revenge on the great white whale that crippled his body and consumed his spirit. The thesis role I have chosen is "Starbuck", the ship's first mate. If this were a dramatic telling of the classic tale, my role would be considered an absurdity for the sure-known fact that Starbuck is a male character. However, since Moby Dick! The Musical is a spoof that features a play within a play, many, if not most, of the roles are being played by women (teenage school-girls to be exact). These roles are known as "trouser roles," and this tradition stems back to the 17th Century. The term refers to a male character sung by a woman (mezzo). It is also referred to as a "breeches part" or in Italian, "travesti". This will be my first trouser role experience. Before today, I hadn't given the concept much thought in relation to musical theatre. These roles generally live in works ranging from Shakespeare to early operetta, and most important, Opera. This thesis role will allow me to log a personal experience in journal form and experience those challenges and rewards that transpire from a live performance. My research will include the history of the "trouser role," including famous performers, specific roles in shows, and the effect it has had on audiences over the years. My main concern, however, is when, where, why, and how the concept made its transition to musicals. It will also be interesting to see what genres these roles are generally written for. Are they all parodies like Moby Dick! The Musical or are there a few dramas thrown into the mix? There will surely be a long list of shows that include the "lady in drag". When all is said and done, I will have a wealth of information in an educational thesis that will prove the significance of an ever-transforming concept.
Show less
Date Issued: 2006
Identifier: CFE0000999, ucf:46702
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000999

Title: THE MIND OF A SADOMASOCIST:A THEATRICAL ROLE ANALYSIS OF ORIN SCRIVELLO D.D.S.
Creator: Catlett, Mark, Weaver, Earl, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Mark Catlett will portray the role of Orin Scrivello D.D.S., as well as various other "cameo" roles, at Seaside Music Theater in Daytona Beach, Florida from January 13- February 13 2005. The role of Orin Scrivello will provide me with several acting challenges as well as multiple subjects and themes to research. The most challenging aspect of creating, developing and embodying the character of Orin will be his sadomasochistic nature and his blatant abuse towards Audrey. Sadomasochism is...
Show moreMark Catlett will portray the role of Orin Scrivello D.D.S., as well as various other "cameo" roles, at Seaside Music Theater in Daytona Beach, Florida from January 13- February 13 2005. The role of Orin Scrivello will provide me with several acting challenges as well as multiple subjects and themes to research. The most challenging aspect of creating, developing and embodying the character of Orin will be his sadomasochistic nature and his blatant abuse towards Audrey. Sadomasochism is defined as "the deriving of sexual gratification, from being physically or emotionally abused". It is also defined as "a willingness or tendency to subject oneself to unpleasant or trying experiences". The psychology of sadomasochism is completely foreign to my life experience and will have to be deeply explored to fully realize the inner workings of Orin's behavior. To supplement the exploration of the psychology of sadomasochism, research will be completed on the following topics: • Sadomasochism in regards to the lead characters of Little Shop of Horrors. • The history of Little Shop of Horrors from its roots in the cult horror film of 1960, followed by the 1983 Off-Broadway production, segueing into the 1986 re-make film version, and culminating in the 2003 official Broadway production. Portrayal of Orin Scrivello D.D.S. also demands the creation of several other characters in the second act of the show. This will require me to develop several different characters ranging from the sadomasochistic dentist, to an ambitious entrepreneur, to even dressing in drag to portray a female florist customer. This will give me an opportunity to show versatility as well as research several different character personalities and dramatic structures. These characters come in and out of the florist shop very quickly, so the challenge will be to both perform a quick change of costume and also be able to completely switch characterizations within minutes. These characters should be different enough that the audience does not immediately realize it is the same actor playing all of these roles.
Show less
Date Issued: 2005
Identifier: CFE0000733, ucf:46611
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000733

theatre (42)	+ -
Theatre (32)	+ -
Musical Theatre (15)	+ -
theater (15)	+ -
acting (9)	+ -

Theatre for Young Audiences (8)	+ -
Acting (7)	+ -
musical theatre (7)	+ -
directing (6)	+ -
TYA (5)	+ -
Theater (5)	+ -
performance (5)	+ -
Drama (4)	+ -
Performance (4)	+ -
Playwriting (4)	+ -
Theatre for Social Change (4)	+ -
theatre for young audiences (4)	+ -
Devising (3)	+ -
LGBTQ (3)	+ -
Lapine (3)	+ -
Sondheim (3)	+ -
Sunday in the Park with George (3)	+ -
Theatre Education (3)	+ -
UCF (3)	+ -
actors (3)	+ -
music (3)	+ -
musical (3)	+ -
play (3)	+ -
sound design (3)	+ -
voice (3)	+ -

ETD Collection (104)	+ -
Honors Collection (13)	+ -

University of Central Florida (117)	+ -
Listengarten, Julia (29)	+ -
Weaver, Earl (25)	+ -
Boyd, Belinda (14)	+ -
Chicurel, Steven (11)	+ -

Wood, Vandy (11)	+ -
Ingram, Kate (10)	+ -
Niess, Christopher (7)	+ -
Alrutz, Megan (6)	+ -
StClaire, Sybil (6)	+ -
Thomas, Aaron (5)	+ -
Brotherton, Mark (4)	+ -
Horn, Elizabeth (4)	+ -
McDonald, Holly (4)	+ -
Shafer, John (4)	+ -
Wood, Mary (4)	+ -
Brown, James (3)	+ -
McCoy, Allen (3)	+ -
Reed, David (3)	+ -
Snyder, Tara (3)	+ -
Tollefson, Kristina (3)	+ -
Wuehrmann, Nicholas (3)	+ -
Bell, John (2)	+ -
Freeman, Emily (2)	+ -
Harris, Lani (2)	+ -
Ingram, Katherine (2)	+ -
Lee, David (2)	+ -
Perry, Charles (2)	+ -
Rusnock, Joseph (2)	+ -
Scott, Bert (2)	+ -

Search In

Pages

Pages

Sort Results By:

Narrow results by:

Topical Subject

Collection

Type of Resource

Language

Creator

Format

Owner