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Title: A PERFORMANCE STUDY AND ANALYSIS OF THE ROLE OF MRS. MEDLOCK IN THE SECRET GARDEN.
Creator: Stern, Samantha, Ingram, Kate, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: This thesis will examine the character of Mrs. Medlock in the Orlando Shakespeare Theatre's "Theatre for Young Audiences" stage production of The Secret Garden. While recording my preparation and performance of the role, I will be drawing on and integrating many of the skills I have been acquiring in my Master's Degree program at UCF, including not only acting, movement, and voice, but also theatre research. My goals are twofold: first, to document the method of creating a rich, multi...
Show moreThis thesis will examine the character of Mrs. Medlock in the Orlando Shakespeare Theatre's "Theatre for Young Audiences" stage production of The Secret Garden. While recording my preparation and performance of the role, I will be drawing on and integrating many of the skills I have been acquiring in my Master's Degree program at UCF, including not only acting, movement, and voice, but also theatre research. My goals are twofold: first, to document the method of creating a rich, multi-layered, remarkable character, and second, to try to solidify what I have learned about this process and thus prepare for future roles in my career.
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Date Issued: 2008
Identifier: CFE0002085, ucf:47602
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0002085

Title: THE CHALLENGE OF PLAYING MULTIPLE ARTHURIAN CHARACTERS.
Creator: Lowa, Cynthia, Boyd, Belinda, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: This thesis examines the portrayal of multiple roles in a production of Camelot, written by Alan Jay Lerner and Frederick Loewe. Performance and content analysis identifies and explores the difficulties and challenges in portraying multiple roles in this production, including the understudying of the leading role of Guenevere. A detailed historical analysis provides background into origin of the Arthurian legend and an examination of its historical development. A social analysis provides...
Show moreThis thesis examines the portrayal of multiple roles in a production of Camelot, written by Alan Jay Lerner and Frederick Loewe. Performance and content analysis identifies and explores the difficulties and challenges in portraying multiple roles in this production, including the understudying of the leading role of Guenevere. A detailed historical analysis provides background into origin of the Arthurian legend and an examination of its historical development. A social analysis provides information on the role of women in medieval society with a discussion of the customs and laws that applied to them. Furthermore, a structural analysis of the script examines the plot and play structure. In addition, in individual sections is formal scene-by-scene analysis of the role of Nimue, Lady Anne, and Guenevere. A comprehensive rehearsal and performance journal also addresses the rehearsal and script development process and challenges faced as well as discoveries, adjustments, and choices made in performance from April 14 to May 30, 2004 at the Orlando Broadway Dinner Theatre. Specific entries include discussion of the challenges of playing minor roles while understudying the role of Guenevere, eventually played in one performance. Belinda Boyd and Christopher Niess, my thesis committee, have each provided a performance analysis of my portrayal of Nimue and Lady Anne. J.J. Ruscella, another committee member, has provided a performance analysis of my performance as Guenevere.
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Date Issued: 2004
Identifier: CFE0000225, ucf:46265
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000225

Title: A PERFORMANCE STUDY AND ANALYSIS OF THE ROLE OF SOOT IN THE MARRIAGE OF BETTE AND BOO.
Creator: Coleman, Jodi, Shafer, John, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: In 1985, Christopher Durang created a master work titled The Marriage of Bette and Boo which was described by The New Yorker as a "brimming cornucopia of brilliant lines." Frank Rich of the New York Times called it "so speedy and chipper that it could almost be mistaken for a Bob Fosse musical." Douglas Watt of the New York Daily News referred to it as a "farcical study of a disastrous marriage, marked by still births, insanity in the family and divorce." These critical responses indicate the...
Show moreIn 1985, Christopher Durang created a master work titled The Marriage of Bette and Boo which was described by The New Yorker as a "brimming cornucopia of brilliant lines." Frank Rich of the New York Times called it "so speedy and chipper that it could almost be mistaken for a Bob Fosse musical." Douglas Watt of the New York Daily News referred to it as a "farcical study of a disastrous marriage, marked by still births, insanity in the family and divorce." These critical responses indicate the necessity to maintain the complexity of the character of Soot without allowing her to fall into the easy stereotypes that trap many artists. The play's focus on alcoholism, spousal abuse, and cancer make it difficult to reconcile the very serious circumstances with the overtly comical reactions created in the play. My challenge in portraying the character of Soot is to resolve these issues. I focused on the teaching of Konstantin Stanislavski as interpreted by Sonia Moore of the American Center for Stanislavski Theatre Art to navigate this challenge. Ms. Moore asserts: "Only after the actor has studied the play, the events, and the given circumstances will he be able to select the actions which will involve his emotions and other inner experiences." With this in mind, I began by studying the script and the playwright for clues about the given circumstances within the world of the play. "You're the dumbest white woman alive" is a line from the play used to describe Soot. This line of dialogue has been used in the past to justify stereotypical performances of this character which mask the complexity of a woman who has been seriously hurt by the man she loves. These types of simplified characterizations are flat and do not take into account the inner and outer forces that make Soot who she is. Olympia Dukakis played Soot at the Public/Newman Theatre in New York City in an Obie award-winning performance. She is quoted as saying, "This is a very forgiving play." Durang later agreed with this assessment saying, "I remember thinking that that sounded right." He further added that The Marriage of Bette and Boo is "based on my parents, it's more emotionally close to me than some of my more surreal plays…I like the balance of the comic and the sad. It should play as funny, but you should care about the characters and feel sad for them." Durang also confides that his own father was an alcoholic and that "in life, my mother lost three [children in childbirth]." Since the play, however humorous, is based on real events in the life of the playwright and his family, it is reasonable to search for playable and understandable motives for the character's action through research of real life given circumstances. To this end, I have been researching the behavior rationalizations inherent in the social interactions of alcoholic families. This has led me to discover a possible explanation for Soot's unusual responses to unpleasant comments and situations. The eGetgoing Online Addiction Treatment Alcohol and Drug Rehab Counseling web page explains that family members often choose enabling behavior to cope with the destructive choices of the alcoholic. Enablers "may have their own system of denial that is fed by the lies and deceptions." Further, it states, "We can think of denial as a way of telling the truth about a small part of reality as if it were all of reality." In this way, Soot is employing a rational tactic to cope with an irrational existence. I believe further research will also identify denial associated with personal tragedy. These understandable and human connections will provide me with the basis of my beginning explorations of this achingly beautiful and sympathetic woman because, as Sonia Moore states, "A person's psychological and physical behavior is subject to the external influence of his environment." Soot's environment includes the time period of the piece and is complicated by the memory play nature of the script, but it adds context for Soot's behavior as a subservient 1950's housewife who feels as if she has very little control over her own world. According to Elaine Tyler May in her book Homeward Bound, "If a woman was not satisfied being a homemaker she was supposed to keep that information hush-hush and go about her daily activities as though nothing was wrong." This information provides further justification and adds strength to the logic of Soot's actions as she deals with the dysfunctional world of her family. The work I have done researching Soot's motivations appears to be relevant to the execution of the play. I may now begin to apply that research to the creation of Soot. The role of Soot provides a wonderful opportunity to develop and grow as a performer. A thesis role needs to supply the MFA candidate with significant challenges. This role has already provided huge opportunities to connect my research skills with my stage work. I believe the role of Soot will force me to push myself and apply all the skills and training I have received during my studies in order to do justice to the richness of the character.
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Date Issued: 2008
Identifier: CFE0002381, ucf:47773
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0002381

Title: Attention Must Be Paid: A Critical Study of the Non-Traditional Leading Man in Twentieth Century Drama.
Creator: Cooper, Trevin, Chicurel, Steven, Listengarten, Julia, McCoy, Allen, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The role of the non-traditional leading man has painted a strong image which mirrors the cultural development of our identities; we turn to these men/characters to understand who, or why, we are. Their contributions require acknowledgement. This thesis is a study of the vital role the non-traditional leading man has played in the evolution of twentieth-century theatre. It will examine, through the use of ten plays, one from every decade of the twentieth century, and twelve male roles, the...
Show moreThe role of the non-traditional leading man has painted a strong image which mirrors the cultural development of our identities; we turn to these men/characters to understand who, or why, we are. Their contributions require acknowledgement. This thesis is a study of the vital role the non-traditional leading man has played in the evolution of twentieth-century theatre. It will examine, through the use of ten plays, one from every decade of the twentieth century, and twelve male roles, the theory that some of the greatest leading male characters in modern theatre are not epitomized by the qualities identified with the stereotypical, romantic leading man, but instead by characters who serve as a representative of the evolution of man, and his ever-changing role in history.
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Date Issued: 2013
Identifier: CFE0004665, ucf:49880
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004665

Title: Mindful Acting.
Creator: Lee, Terence, Reed, David, Thomas, Aaron, Ingram, Kate, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: As we transition into a more goal-oriented society, our ability to nurture and cultivate individual growth in emotional, spiritual, and mental awareness in the performing arts has been stifled by the desire to get ahead in our modern-day race for success. This fierce struggle brings with it a risk of subconscious deterioration in mental, spiritual and emotional health. As actors in an aggressive industry, we are often faced with the monumental task of preserving our artistry while competing...
Show moreAs we transition into a more goal-oriented society, our ability to nurture and cultivate individual growth in emotional, spiritual, and mental awareness in the performing arts has been stifled by the desire to get ahead in our modern-day race for success. This fierce struggle brings with it a risk of subconscious deterioration in mental, spiritual and emotional health. As actors in an aggressive industry, we are often faced with the monumental task of preserving our artistry while competing in the industry, and we often find ourselves overwhelmed by the inescapable pressures in the business of acting. In (")Mindful Acting("), I will synthesize a metaphysical approach to actor-training centered around the concept of mindfulness, meditation and the self. The goal of my thesis is to refine and integrate pre-existing actor training methods with practices in mindfulness and meditation to reclaim the actor's artistry in life and in performance.
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Date Issued: 2019
Identifier: CFE0007486, ucf:52666
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007486

Title: EMOTIONAL REGULATION AT WALT DISNEY WORLD: DEEP ACTING VS. SURFACE ACTING.
Creator: Reyers, Anne, Matusitz, Jonathan, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The objective of this study is to examine the emotional regulation strategies used by Walt Disney World on-stage employees as a way to fulfill requirements set forth by the company. Ten Disney on-stage employees were interviewed off-property in Orlando. The emotional regulation framework was divided into several categories: (1) a distinction between deep acting and surface acting, (2) emotional deviance, and (3) emotional exhaustion. "Surface acting" is a strategy by which employees display...
Show moreThe objective of this study is to examine the emotional regulation strategies used by Walt Disney World on-stage employees as a way to fulfill requirements set forth by the company. Ten Disney on-stage employees were interviewed off-property in Orlando. The emotional regulation framework was divided into several categories: (1) a distinction between deep acting and surface acting, (2) emotional deviance, and (3) emotional exhaustion. "Surface acting" is a strategy by which employees display company-imposed emotions not genuinely felt, whereas "deep acting" occurs when employees do feel the emotions that they are required to express (Hochschild, 1983). Throughout the data reduction process, five key themes surfaced as the most relevant to the initial research questions: (1) Self-Motivated Deep Acting, (2) Organizational Expectations for Surface Acting, (3) "Back-Stage" vs. "Front-Stage" Dichotomy, (4) Benefits of Emotional Training, and (5) Negative Effects of Emotional Regulation. Overall, the researcher found that a key strategy of emotional regulation that Disney employees use frequently is surface acting, although deep acting was found to be more successful. In addition, while emotional exhaustion was a common problem among employees, very few of them will actually engage in emotional deviance in order to avoid the negative consequences of surface acting. Lastly, it was found that highly skilled Walt Disney World employees will have already internalized emotional regulation training and display rules that manage emotional behavior. Therefore, it becomes less essential for the Disney Company to formally monitor its employees' facial expressions and emotional behavior in the future.
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Date Issued: 2011
Identifier: CFE0003684, ucf:48815
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0003684

Title: A PERFORMANCE STUDY AND ANALYSIS OF THE ROLE OF PROFESSOR MULLER IN THE VISIT.
Creator: Harrison, Stephanie, Boyd, Be, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: I propose to study the role of Professor Muller in The Visit as my thesis role because of the challenge that it presents, not only as a translated work, but also because of the character shift for me - Professor Muller is a 72 year old man and has now been changed to a woman in her thirties. Professor Muller is the only person to stand up to the antagonist, Claire. The confrontation between Claire and Muller takes on a certain tone when it is between a woman and a man, and has a completely...
Show moreI propose to study the role of Professor Muller in The Visit as my thesis role because of the challenge that it presents, not only as a translated work, but also because of the character shift for me - Professor Muller is a 72 year old man and has now been changed to a woman in her thirties. Professor Muller is the only person to stand up to the antagonist, Claire. The confrontation between Claire and Muller takes on a certain tone when it is between a woman and a man, and has a completely different outlook when it becomes woman vs. woman. The director has taken this play and set it in an abstract time and setting, loosely basing it in a post WW2 era in perhaps Switzerland, or even Germany, although the location will never be actually specified by the director. It is merely a suggestion of where we should begin the process of characterization. The town gives off an appearance of desolation, but we must retain the knowledge of better times. This challenge of not having specifics almost grinds at me to place specifics on the character, but I will attempt to refrain from this. This role will not only challenge my training here in movement, voice and character analysis, but will allow me to pursue a new kind of development in character, one that does not have to be mapped out. This character can be created only through the other characters on the stage. There are no clues in the script, really, because of extensive cuttings and re-workings through this translation. The Professor is defined by relationships, not by words, and this new process excites me. After the show has closed, I would like to explore the play in its entirety and look to see if I have remained true to the author's work while working in a new concept from the director. I think it is possible to still hold to the origins and maintain the message of the play even through such large changes. This is going to be one of the most challenging roles that I have faced. I think that at the same time that I am going to apply my training, I also need to let it go and explore her through my body, my heart. At home, outside the theatre, I can go through the analytical parts - the "who am I" and "where do I come from" questions. My journals will be exceptionally useful for this knowledge. However, in rehearsals, I want to "let it all go" and "fly by the seat of my pants" to uncover answers that might be lost to me if I use only my brain. This is my biggest weakness as an actor - allowing my brain to take over. The problem with over-analyzing is that I look to deeply into the words and the script for the clues that my body may already be telling me, or I miss an impulse to act on a feeling because I am to caught up reading into everything. I need to read, and then play, not read and concentrate. We are doing a "play" after all, not a "work". It is my hope that I can allow myself to play more, and thereby overcome this weakness.
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Date Issued: 2006
Identifier: CFE0000988, ucf:46699
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000988

Title: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF THE USA PATRIOT ACT OF 2001 TO THE USA FREEDOM ACT OF 2015: BALANCING SECURITY WITH LIBERTY.
Creator: Russo, Richard, Slaughter, David, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Freedom and safety are two ideals that American citizens value greatly; however, the balance between privacy and security determines whether or not both can be achieved in a reasonable manner. Security and privacy are not mutually exclusive; however, they tend to exhibit an inverse correlation with regards to maintaining individual liberties. Security and privacy are highly beneficial, but when one is given too much weight, the other most often suffers. When the United States citizens are...
Show moreFreedom and safety are two ideals that American citizens value greatly; however, the balance between privacy and security determines whether or not both can be achieved in a reasonable manner. Security and privacy are not mutually exclusive; however, they tend to exhibit an inverse correlation with regards to maintaining individual liberties. Security and privacy are highly beneficial, but when one is given too much weight, the other most often suffers. When the United States citizens are given too much privacy through regulations, the citizens risk their well-being by not allowing the government the ability to prevent dangerous activities being done by criminals. Citizens are unable to defend themselves against foreign and domestic threats of terrorism that affect large amounts of people such as bombings in public settings; however, the federal government can help to prevent such attacks in public settings through surveillance of public areas and monitoring of internet and intracellular communications. When the United States federal government is given too much discretion in security powers through legislation, citizens are at risk of losing their civil rights granted in the Bill of Rights and in Supreme Court cases. The United States of America has had a dangerous imbalance of power in favor of national security since the adoption of the USA PATRIOT Act in 2001, and the imbalance has continued to the present even after the passage of the USA FREEDOM Act in 2015.This thesis will be a comparative analysis of the USA PATRIOT Act of 2001 to the USA FREEDOM Act of 2015. This thesis will show what specific powers are granted through provisions of the acts, whether or not the provisions are unconstitutional, how the privacy and security of American citizens will change due to the provisions in the USA FREEDOM Act, and suggestions for how the United States federal government can continue to tilt the balance between security and liberty to ensure more protection for civil liberties and a decrease in national security powers. The suggestions will include three options for gaining the protection of civil liberties and the elimination of certain national security powers and the options are through Supreme Court cases on national security laws pertaining to individual cases or states, Congress passing concurring minor bills with the proposed plan to fully repeal granted national security powers without disturbing congressional alliances on other measures, and Congress passing a single act called the State Surveillance Repeal Act in order to fully repeal the USA PATRIOT Act provisions that would still be in effect after the passage of the USA FREEDOM Act.
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Date Issued: 2015
Identifier: CFH0004862, ucf:45466
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004862

Title: THE WOMEN OF AUGUST WILSON AND A PERFORMANCE ANALYSIS OF THE ROLE OF GRACE IN WILSON'S THE PIANO LESSON.
Creator: Marable, Ingrid, Listengarten, Julia, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: ABSTRACT In the fall of 2007, I was cast in the University of Central Florida's production of The Piano Lesson. My thesis will examine my performance in the role of Grace, as well as understudying the role of Berniece under the direction of Professor Belinda Boyd. In addition to the performance components, my thesis materials will include historical and cultural character research and a reflective journal documenting my rehearsal and production process. My character research and journal...
Show moreABSTRACT In the fall of 2007, I was cast in the University of Central Florida's production of The Piano Lesson. My thesis will examine my performance in the role of Grace, as well as understudying the role of Berniece under the direction of Professor Belinda Boyd. In addition to the performance components, my thesis materials will include historical and cultural character research and a reflective journal documenting my rehearsal and production process. My character research and journal will address questions about the characters "choices" and the relationship of their environment to views of personal responsibility and obligations in the play. I will examine the characters' relationships and situations in the play, investigating some of the decisions that these characters make in response to their cultural and social landscapes. The second part of my thesis will include research on three additional female characters from August Wilson's dramatic canon: Aunt Ester Tyler from Gem of the Ocean, Ma Rainey from Ma Rainey's Black Bottom, and Rose from Fences, which will inform my character explorations of Grace and Berniece, and the choices that I make during the rehearsal process in developing their journeys. By reading other plays by Wilson, I endeavor to deepen my understanding of the struggles of African-American women in the twentieth century, and explore how the social and economic status of black women was affected by America's changing political and social climate over several decades. In addition, I will document how my visceral experience of performing the roles of Grace and Berniece relates to my intellectual process of exploring the journeys of Aunt Ester Tyler, Ma Rainey, and Rose.
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Date Issued: 2009
Identifier: CFE0002676, ucf:48245
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0002676

Title: The Actor Process: Playing Multiple Characters.
Creator: Brown, Danielle, Boyd, Belinda, Shafer, John, McDonald, Holly, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: This study examines the process used while preparing for the role of Daughter in Jim Helsinger's adaptation of A Christmas Carol: Being a Ghost Story of Christmas, performed at the Orlando Shakespeare Theater (OST). Within the framework of the play, Daughter is a character who is transformed into multiple roles. Her characters include Charity Collector, Belle, Martha Cratchit, Miner, Fred's Wife and Quarreler #1.Presented with the challenge of playing multiple roles in the same production, I...
Show moreThis study examines the process used while preparing for the role of Daughter in Jim Helsinger's adaptation of A Christmas Carol: Being a Ghost Story of Christmas, performed at the Orlando Shakespeare Theater (OST). Within the framework of the play, Daughter is a character who is transformed into multiple roles. Her characters include Charity Collector, Belle, Martha Cratchit, Miner, Fred's Wife and Quarreler #1.Presented with the challenge of playing multiple roles in the same production, I sought efficient and straightforward character development and analysis methods to strengthen my performance. Using Uta Hagen's nine questions as a scaffold, I composed a distinguishing analysis for each of my characters while utilizing skills cultivated in my MFA program at the University of Central Florida. I created an actor process motivated by the examination of my identity and circumstances at this point in my life. It is supported by a rehearsal and performance journal detailing my journey, followed by analysis.
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Date Issued: 2016
Identifier: CFE0006270, ucf:51034
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006270

Title: 9/11: We Will Forget.
Creator: Nettle, Jason, Ingram, Katherine, Listengarten, Julia, Niess, Christopher, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: This study is based on the events of September 11, 2001. I will be writing a one man show containing fictional characters that I will write based on research of that day. The show will consist of numerous characters cut from different ages, religions, genders, and points of view.I will be portraying these characters using the tools I have acquired in studio and on stage. The challenge will be to make each character different and bring their experience and unique point of view to the...
Show moreThis study is based on the events of September 11, 2001. I will be writing a one man show containing fictional characters that I will write based on research of that day. The show will consist of numerous characters cut from different ages, religions, genders, and points of view.I will be portraying these characters using the tools I have acquired in studio and on stage. The challenge will be to make each character different and bring their experience and unique point of view to the performance.This study will begin at conception of the idea and follow the journey all the way to the final performance. It will show the struggles I encounter as a writer, performer, and producer.
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Date Issued: 2013
Identifier: CFE0004730, ucf:49833
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004730

Title: Developing New Works for the Stage: An Actor's Perspective.
Creator: Butler, Lauren, Boyd, Belinda, Listengarten, Julia, Ingram, Katherine, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: U.S. Theatre is often noted for its commitment to new play development. Since Eugene O'Neill, America has fostered a tradition of celebrating emerging playwrights and their bold, edgy new works through countless development programs such as festivals, new play readings, grant programs, workshops, and world premieres. Although in recent years new-play development has seen a steady decline in funding (Levitow 2), it remains a cornerstone of American identity and an essential medium for pushing...
Show moreU.S. Theatre is often noted for its commitment to new play development. Since Eugene O'Neill, America has fostered a tradition of celebrating emerging playwrights and their bold, edgy new works through countless development programs such as festivals, new play readings, grant programs, workshops, and world premieres. Although in recent years new-play development has seen a steady decline in funding (Levitow 2), it remains a cornerstone of American identity and an essential medium for pushing boundaries in theatre, both culturally and artistically. New-play development is indispensable for keeping theatre relevant in our ever-changing culture. For my thesis, I explore the process of developing a new play from an actor's perspective. The role of the director, dramaturg and producer of a new play is often discussed; however the importance of the actor throughout the development process is sometimes overlooked. There are many configurations of artistic teams assembled to develop a new play; therefore, I do not suggest there is one type of team that is best or one type of role for the actor to play within the team. My aim was to collaborate with the playwright, director and fellow actors to discover what is required of an actor in all phases of new play development. I applied the principles learned to my own work in the World Premiere of The Exit Interview by William Missouri Downs at the Orlando Shakespeare Theatre in Partnership with The University of Central Florida. As I navigated my way through the artistic process of developing a new work, I discovered some 'best practices', which I employed throughout the rehearsal and performance process to further my own skills. I will discuss the development process I experienced, as objectively as possible, outlining the key best practices for an actor working in a collaborative team to develop a new play.
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Date Issued: 2013
Identifier: CFE0004660, ucf:49905
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004660

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.
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Date Issued: 2014
Identifier: CFE0005278, ucf:50562
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005278

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.
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Date Issued: 2006
Identifier: CFE0001415, ucf:47035
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0001415

Title: THE LASTING EFFECTS AND ANALYSIS OF THE SUPREME COURT'S DECISION IN: THE NATIONAL FEDERATION OF INDEPENDENT BUSINESS V. SEBELIUS.
Creator: Esposito, Devin, Wood, Robert, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The purpose of this thesis is to examine the Affordable Care Act through an analysis of the United States Supreme Court's holding in The National Federation of Independent Business v. Sebelius. In order to better understand the Supreme Court's reasoning in that case, this paper will first examine the history and the function of the Supreme Court, which will demonstrate the Court's power to either augment or diminish the power of the states in relation to the federal government. This paper...
Show moreThe purpose of this thesis is to examine the Affordable Care Act through an analysis of the United States Supreme Court's holding in The National Federation of Independent Business v. Sebelius. In order to better understand the Supreme Court's reasoning in that case, this paper will first examine the history and the function of the Supreme Court, which will demonstrate the Court's power to either augment or diminish the power of the states in relation to the federal government. This paper will then discuss the background of the Affordable Care Act, the procedural history of the case, and the majority's analysis supporting its decision. The concurring and dissenting opinions of the other justices will be discussed to present the various viewpoints regarding the proper role of the federal government and the implications this case may have on federal/state conflict. The Supreme Court ruled in favor of the Department of Health and Human Services. The 5-4 decision was extremely close and the opinions given by each Justice highlighted the various flaws and benefits of the Act it was looking to uphold. Further research of Supreme Court cases in our country's history reveal the trend of augmenting and diminishing state's rights. This thesis will examine the constitutionality of the aforementioned decision, the effects it will have on each of the states within the United States, and the impact the citizens will experience.
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Date Issued: 2013
Identifier: CFH0004372, ucf:45012
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004372

Title: Assessing Institutional Response to Sexual Violence on College Campuses: The Relationship Between Organizational Characteristics of Colleges and Adherence to National Guidelines.
Creator: Macri, Lisa, Burg, Mary Ann, Anderson, Kim, Yegidis, Bonnie, McMahon, Sarah, Potter, Roberto, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: This dissertation is a cross sectional exploratory study assessing adherence to the federal campus sexual violence Clery Act and Title IX guidelines among a national sample of (n=94) institutions of higher education (IHE) to determine if there are any relationships between organizational characteristics and CSV policy adherence using a three-part index of compliance: (1). Levels of IHE compliance to federal policies; (2). Levels of IHE provision of CSV prevention services and programs; and (3...
Show moreThis dissertation is a cross sectional exploratory study assessing adherence to the federal campus sexual violence Clery Act and Title IX guidelines among a national sample of (n=94) institutions of higher education (IHE) to determine if there are any relationships between organizational characteristics and CSV policy adherence using a three-part index of compliance: (1). Levels of IHE compliance to federal policies; (2). Levels of IHE provision of CSV prevention services and programs; and (3). Levels of IHE provision of CSV interim and supportive measures. Resource Dependency Theory (Pfeffer (&) Salancik, 1978) informed the study's primary hypothesis that an IHE's reliance on federal financial aid would positively correlate to higher scores on the measures of IHE CSV compliance. Results from regression analyses found a statistically significant (p(<).001) relationship between the receipt of federal student aid dollars by all IHE in the sample and the scores on all levels of the compliance measure. For each federal student aid dollar received, total compliance scores increased by 4 points for all IHE in the sample. Other IHE characteristics, such as the presence of a recent Title IX investigation, were assessed in regard to their relationship to compliance levels. Findings of this exploratory study suggest provisional support for the application of RDT to IHE compliance behaviors regarding campus sexual violence. Additionally, two-year IHE in the sample had statistically significantly lower levels of overall compliance, identifying an opportunity to improve compliance..
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Date Issued: 2019
Identifier: CFE0007492, ucf:52631
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007492

Title: BEYOND PERFORMANCE: PORTRAYING A GAY CHARACTER TRUTHFULLY AND EFFECTIVELY.
Creator: Fucci, Bryan, Ingram, Katherine, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Queer culture is finding an ever-increasing voice in the arts. Plays like The Laramie Project, Rent, and Angels in America have contributed to making queer identity a very present voice in popular culture. In this thesis, I investigate the excitement and complexity of a straight actor becoming a gay character on stage. Using my interpretation of "Jack" in Debbie Lamedman's new play, Triangle Logic, as a case study, I catalogue a three-month journey towards the effective embrace of...
Show moreQueer culture is finding an ever-increasing voice in the arts. Plays like The Laramie Project, Rent, and Angels in America have contributed to making queer identity a very present voice in popular culture. In this thesis, I investigate the excitement and complexity of a straight actor becoming a gay character on stage. Using my interpretation of "Jack" in Debbie Lamedman's new play, Triangle Logic, as a case study, I catalogue a three-month journey towards the effective embrace of truthfulness on stage. I expand the idea that actors must not layer on possibly offensive stereotypes to convey sexuality, but, instead, focus on telling the story through honest character relationships.
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Date Issued: 2011
Identifier: CFE0003626, ucf:48892
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0003626

Title: X: THE RISE AND FALL OF AN ASYLUM STAR (A JOURNEY OF TWO ACTRESSES).
Creator: Wilhite, Erika, Niess, Christopher, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The performance of X: The Rise and Fall of an Asylum Star, in conjunction with my thesis document, investigates the dichotomy of fantasy and reality for a performer. I compare the creative and emotional journey of Augustine, a young woman hospitalized for hysteria, to my own journey as an actress. Augustine was also performer, for her doctors led her in public demonstrations of the symptoms of hysteria. Her "talent" for hysteria earned her notoriety and celebrity. She was coached and directed...
Show moreThe performance of X: The Rise and Fall of an Asylum Star, in conjunction with my thesis document, investigates the dichotomy of fantasy and reality for a performer. I compare the creative and emotional journey of Augustine, a young woman hospitalized for hysteria, to my own journey as an actress. Augustine was also performer, for her doctors led her in public demonstrations of the symptoms of hysteria. Her "talent" for hysteria earned her notoriety and celebrity. She was coached and directed from her doctors to enhance her demonstrations. As a result, the validity and authenticity of her state was questionable. I compare the performative qualities of hysteria with my own states of drama as a performer and draw parallels between us, looking specifically at states of experience, both imagined and real.
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Date Issued: 2009
Identifier: CFE0002679, ucf:48240
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0002679

Title: INHERITING THE MOTLEY MANTLE: AN ACTOR APPROACHES PLAYING THE ROLE OF FESTE, SHAKESPEARE'S UPDATE OF THE LORD OF MISRULE.
Creator: Clateman, Andrew, Ingram, Katherine, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Playing role of Feste in William Shakespeare's Twelfth Night presents a complex challenge to the actor. Feste is at once a character in the world of the play and a clown figure with specific dramatic functions having roots in the Lord of Misrule of the English holiday and the Vice of the morality play. How can the actor playing Feste create a believable psychological portrayal that is aligned with the functions Shakespeare assigns the role? And be entertaining as well? I suggest that actor...
Show morePlaying role of Feste in William Shakespeare's Twelfth Night presents a complex challenge to the actor. Feste is at once a character in the world of the play and a clown figure with specific dramatic functions having roots in the Lord of Misrule of the English holiday and the Vice of the morality play. How can the actor playing Feste create a believable psychological portrayal that is aligned with the functions Shakespeare assigns the role? And be entertaining as well? I suggest that actor will benefit greatly from an exploration the traditional function of the clown its development in society and literature before Shakespeare, and how Shakespeare's use of the clown developed up to the writing of Twelfth Night. The actor will thereby have a better understanding of what Shakespeare might by trying to achieve with Feste,, and he (or she) may better find the motivations for Feste's sometimes-enigmatic words and actions, which will, in turn, give shape and purpose to the clowning. I put this thesis to the test in preparing for and playing the role of Feste in Theater Ten Ten's production of Twelfth Night in the spring of 2010 in New York City. My research and preparation will include: a substantial immersion in much of Shakespeare's cannon, and viewing of performances of it (mainly on video); research on the role of the clown, how it developed through history until Shakespeare's time, and how Shakespeare appropriated and developed that tradition, culminating in Feste; a performance history of the role; a structural analysis of Feste's role in Twelfth Night; a character study of Feste; a rehearsal and performance journal documenting my ongoing exploration, challenges and choices. The main challenge, as I foresee it, is to arrive at my own unique performance of Feste while fulfilling both my director's vision and Shakespeare's intention.
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Date Issued: 2011
Identifier: CFE0003751, ucf:48795
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0003751

Title: A Jew from Nebraska: An Actors Attempt at Stand-up Comedy.
Creator: Nathan, Jeffrey, Niess, Christopher, Brotherton, Mark, Helsinger, James, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Stand-up comedy has been a major influence on American culture and has given the (")Everyman(") the ability to laugh at ourselves. Stand-up comedians have been performing in nightclubs, bars, clubs, and, most importantly, theatres for the past 60 years. Stand-up comedy can take many forms: a monologue of entertaining incidents that form a story, or a string of one-liners, or a succession of jokes. This performance project and thesis is an examination and an attempt at the art form that we...
Show moreStand-up comedy has been a major influence on American culture and has given the (")Everyman(") the ability to laugh at ourselves. Stand-up comedians have been performing in nightclubs, bars, clubs, and, most importantly, theatres for the past 60 years. Stand-up comedy can take many forms: a monologue of entertaining incidents that form a story, or a string of one-liners, or a succession of jokes. This performance project and thesis is an examination and an attempt at the art form that we call stand-up comedy. It will answer the question of what is the best approach to writing comedy for an actor finishing his graduate acting program. It will also challenge the idea of simple joke-telling versus storytelling and examine the following question: Can anyone be a standup comedian? A research of the history, an analysis of the practitioners, and training from graduate studio work will support the discovery of a practical approach to writing and performing a stand-up comedy routine.
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Date Issued: 2015
Identifier: CFE0006046, ucf:50978
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006046

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