2011 Workshops Listing

A Tour of a New York Off-Broadway Musical, by James Olm

The group will have a short slide presentation of the backstage workings of the new musical The Magdalene. Stories of its creation, production, workings with New York actors and directors, as well as information on how to prepare to enter that world of theatre as a professional.

Acting equals Action, by David Cates

Acting in Faith, by Michael Kary

Acting for Musical Theatre, by James Young

Acting On Camera, by Jose Mercado, UCD

This is the perfect workshop for the actor who desires fundamental auditioning skills for on-camera work. We explore the audition process from the actor’s point of view to the casting director’s. We will go over the industry terms, audition techniques, taking direction, and more! This is also an ideal class for actor beginning work in front of the camera, from film to commercials.

Acting: the Active Process, by Tom McNally, UNC

A 20-year thespian tradition: Tom McNally’s hands-on, fast-paced, lively workshop includes demonstrations and participation in learning acting techniques of purpose, obstacle, tactics, circumstances, relationships, character and orchestration. A special segment of the class is devoted to psychological gesture of the character.

Acting Through Improvisation (Teacher Workshop), by Kirsten Caldwell, Gaining Perspective

You’ve read the books, you’ve taught the games, but is improv really more than just a fun way to warm kids up before rehearsals? YES! Improv is acting and when taught well it can help students to get to the heart of their material. By using improvisation as an acting tool, students learn how to be comfortable first with themselves so that their comfort level translates into their scripted work. The freedom they feel when they are playing, whether it be through a game that is purely fun or a game that sparks emotional truth, will transition them from simply spouting diaologue to connecting more authentically with their pieces

Actor’s Proven Relaxation Techniques, by Andrea Villa, Guest Artist

The Actor’s Tool Kit, by J. Frank Stewart, Guest Artist

The exercises in this workshop are the same ones used by Meryl Streep, Christopher Durang, Sigourney Weaver, and countless other successful theatre artists when they studied at Yale. These are the tools that will help you really connect with another character, find something specific to play even when the words don’t make it clear and stretch your imagination way past the obvious. This workshop is geared to students at all levels who want to explore exercises that make acting easier and more fun. For students and teachers, all levels.

Advanced Broadway Dance for the Stage, by Jennifer Johnson, Guest Artist

This workshop will take it a step beyond to give the experienced dancer some skilled Broadway choreography. Bring comfortable clothes and be ready to learn.

Advanced Improvisation, by Mike Rock, Guest Artist

Harder than the intermediate class, easier than a root canal. For actors who have more experience with improvisation, a class to challenge your skills and improve your technique. Less explanation of the basics, more emphasis on nuance and subtlety. More attention to developing scenes, creating characters and relationships, while staying immediate and telling the story. It’s not about trying to be funny—it’s not about trying. It’s about being. For students and teachers with some improv experience.

Advanced Playwriting, by Stephen Gregg, Guest Artist

We’ll talk about how to create complex characters, how to keep your plot working, and what is the single most important word for the playwright to know. Attending the Basic Playwriting workshop first is recommended, but not required. For students and teachers, intermediate to advanced levels.

An Insider’s Guide to a killer Audition, by Blake Babbitt

Want to learn how to make a lasting impression in the casting office? Come to Blake’s workshop, “An Insider’s Guide To A Killer Audition!” As a professional actor, director, and playwright living in New York City, Blake will conduct an exciting and well-rounded audition techniques workshop, emphasizing theatre, film, television, and commercial auditions. Students will learn all aspects of the professional auditioning world, as well as the tools and terms of the “biz” necessary to land the role. Using materials from actual shows, you will have the to opportunity to take direction as you would in a real world casting session. Students will also learn about “type;” the realities and importance associated with truly knowing your “type,” audition etiquette, and how to make a lasting impression on casting directors, agents, and managers. Blake will share his personal list of Do’s and Don’ts associated with auditions, and you can pick his brain on any industry questions you may have!

Apply Acting Exercises to Your Performance, by Dr. Mike Pearl

Acting Exercises are fun to do. But performance is the name of the game. How can you apply Acting Exercises to the Performance? Note the difference between exercise and performance. Be ready to get on your feet for this session. We’ll use the soda fountain scene between George and Emily from Our Town.

Auditioning for Colleges and Conservatories, Kathy Morath, AMDA

Auditioning for Musical Theatre, by John Leonard, UNC

This workshop covers every area of auditioning for musical theatre, including: type, proper audition material, attire, working with the accompanist, and the other dos and don’ts.

Basic Playwriting, by Stephen Gregg, Guest Artist

We’ll focus on what distinguishes playwriting from other forms of writing you might be more familiar with, especially fiction. The best way to learn is to try, so bring a pen! For students and teachers, all levels.

Basic Stage Make-up, by Maggie Stillman, Norcostco

Introduction to Theatrical Make-up: This workshop is designed to introduce the basics of stage makeup. We will focus on standard stage makeup, application of facial hair, and old age effects to help you learn how to apply stage makeup for any size audience, theatre, and show.

Be Your Own Stage Manager, by Rebecca Joseph, Vintage Theatre Guest Artist

You’ve probably heard of a stage manager and then wondered what exactly do they do? In this interactive workshop you’ll learn all the roles that stage managers fill, from running efficient rehearsals to tightly calling cues, to playing therapist to actors and directors. You will learn shorthand for how a stage manager writes down blocking, see several examples of professional script bibles and get to practice calling some technically challenging sequences of lighting, sound and automation cues.

Beginning Steps – The Dance Audition for the Non-Dancer, byMonte Black, UNC

Many musical theatre auditions have two separate dance calls: one for dancers and one for actor/singers. This workshop explores the core repertoire of steps that any actor/singer/dancer should know in order to survive the “non-dancer” dance audition. Dress for the part – this class is full-on participation – of the dancin’ kind.

Blood and Gore: 3D Make-Up Design, by Markas Henry, CU

This workshop will demonstrate various products and ways to achieve 3-dimensional gore makeup effects. Both pre-made and custom prosthetic wounds will be incorporated into the presentation. Co-Presented with Anne Murphy

Broadway Aerobic Workout, by Theresa Collins, Guest Artist

Start your day off right by moving your body and getting your heart pumping, all to the sounds of Broadway! Comfortable clothes suggested. Appropriate for all fitness and experience levels.

Broadway Dance, by Nathan Balser, Western Wyoming Guest Artist

Broadway Dance for the Stage, by Jennifer Johnson, Dance Arts Studio

This workshop will teach the non-dancer and dancer Broadway choreography. Bring comfortable clothes and be ready to learn.

Brodway Musical Theatre Dance, by Bud Coleman, University of Colorado

Character Biography, by David Saphier, DCPA

Expand your knowledge about your character by combining improvisation, writing and dramaturgy to create a character biography. Take the information you know from the script or the monologue you are working on and use it to write a short biography about your character. How did their life come to this point or how did that moment inform the rest of their life?

Commedia Del’Arte: Exploring the art of masked physical comedy, by Brenton Daviau

Explore physical comedic theatre at its peak on your feet! This Workshop will introduce the style of classic Italian physical acting and shape basic skills in improvisation. The workshop will include brief history on the style, exploring mask work, a walkthrough of the basic character stock types, and an introduction to the Commedia Lazzi.

Creating a Character Through Movement, by Tamara Meneghini-Stalker, CU

Ever considered approaching a character in a purely physical way? In this workshop we will explore what it means to fully engage the physical instrument in the creative process of creating character. Please wear comfortable clothing and bring a short piece of text to play with.

Creating Cultures of Acceptance in the Theater and Beyond, by Cory Barett, Rainbow Alley Guest Artist

How can you support friends who are gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, questioning or queer? How can you help change the culture in your school to be safer for everyone? Do you want to start a GSA or support the one you’re already a part of? Come learn more about creating safe space, using appropriate language, and how to engage people in the fight for equality and safety. Andie Lyons, program manager at Rainbow Alley, Denver’s only drop in space for GLBTQ youth, and members of Rainbow Alley’s Outreach Team will lead a conversation about safe spaces at school and beyond.

Creative Careers? How can I point my students towards the ladder to success by Gully Stanford and Dave Mazzeno, IATSE

With the adoption of Postsecondary and Workforce Readiness Standards, and the Individual Career and Academic Plan (ICAP), Colorado has determined that students should make informed choices about their postsecondary options. In the Creative Industries sector, this means that the skills we associate with arts education are increasingly vital to and valued by Colorado’s Economic leaders. This session will introduce theatre faculty to the vast array of creative career opportunities awaiting your students, and will share resources and pathways for parents and students to explore.

Creative Careers? From the Stage to the Stars by Gully Stanford

Did you know that your Thespian experience is preparing you for success in college and in life? The skills you are learning onstage and backstage may very well lead you to a “Creative Career” – there are 186,000 of these careers in Colorado alone. At this session, students will meet the www.CollegeInColorado.org website and explore careers “From Arts to Zoo” and the colleges and courses available.

Crime Scenic: Forensic Pathology Makeup and FX in Hollywood with Brian Kinney, IATSE Local 706

From foul play, to crime scene, to morgue, to the undead, death is a staple of the entertainment industry. Learn what goes into the illusion of death created for your favorite crime shows and films. CSI veteran makeup artist Brian Kinney will demonstrate and explain with interactive makeup techniques and behind the scenes secrets. This is Death, in High Definition.

Comedy Lab, by Erik Hellman, Equity Guest Actor

Have you ever wondered what makes some things funny and other things not? On stage, have you ever failed to get a laugh or gotten a laugh you hadn’t expected and wondered why? This workshop provides a platform for the exploration of comedy as a stage craft, and aims to turn you into a funnier person and a more truthful actor.

Commercial Acting Workshop, by Talia Liccardello, Chelsey Hannah, and Nathan Axtell, Golden Ticket Theatre

Have you ever seen an ad on television and thought, “I could do that!” Well there is more to it than you might think. Learn the ropes at this commercial audition workshop with professional actors. Our instructors have been seen in national and regional commercial advertisements, national print advertisements, prime time television, and more! They will teach you the lingo, the expectations, the pay scales, and the key elements to making it past the audition and callback and onto your T.V.

Cool Down with Yoga, by Theresa Collins

Dance Audition for the Non-Dancer, by Monte Black, Guest Artsit UNC

Dialect Tools, by Jeremy Sortore, Equity Guest Artist

We’ll concentrate on the ingredients to ANY successful stage accent or dialect, including a step-by-step approach to honing your listening skills and bringing authenticity to your speech! Stop “winging it” and learn how to approach dialect work systematically and professionally.

Digital Sketching with Adobe Photoshop, by Nick Embree, University of the Arts

This workshop introduces Photoshop as an alternative to traditional ink, pencil, gouache, and watercolor media in theatrical sketches and renderings. Digital art allows for easy and fast editing of images, creation of multiple scene looks, and the addition of lighting effects.

Directing: Building your Concept, by William Goldyn, LA School for the Performing Arts

This workshop will focus on a variety of ways directors analyze scripts narrowing toward their own directorial concept. We will explore what it means to form a concept, how to translate that concept to both actors and designers, and how to use it as a unifying force in all decisions about the show. This workshop’s approach is totally experiential–participants discover the demands and problems of directing by actually doing it step-by-step with each participant’s own directing style ultimately emerging. Directorial creativity and confidence building are the central benefits of this excellent workshop, combining theory with active student participation

Directing: Creating Pictures, by William Goldyn, LA School for Performing Arts

Actors are certainly able to coach each other. Designers create around the pre-established concept of the show. So, besides paperwork and scheduling, what is a director’s job in rehearsal? Answer: to be the perspective of the audience, to better visualize the story and provide a window to the subtext in each scene. This workshop was developed for actors, directors, and designers to better ‘see’ the show. We will focus on truly seeing the space to tell stories. Using our imagination and creativity, participants will become aware of the complex human condition acquired through aesthetic and intellectual perceptions as evidenced in various modes the theatrical production.

Engaged Shakespeare, by Gillian McNally, University of Northern Colorado

Fantasy and Special Effects Make-Up, By Maggie Stillman, Norcostco

Intermediate Theatrical Makeup and Fantasy Effects: This workshop is designed to introduce techniques to students who have the basic knowledge of stage makeup. We will focus on the application of prosthetics, fantasy and animal makeup, and special effects such as bruising and contouring to change the face shape.

Finding Performance Truth in a Musical Chorus of Les Mis by James Olm

The group will be learning a short excerpt chorus part of Les Mis, and then be workshopped on creating performance truth in that character.

Focus and Move with Purpose, by Tim Grant

Young actors are bombarded with so much direction and coaching that it can be overwhelming. Acting exercises that help develop focused performers. Learn by doing in this active workshop.

Get Involved in Local Theatre by Dr. Mike Pearl and Pat Payne

Your school’s theatre is not the only theatre in town. Get involved in the other theatre in your community. Dr. Mike Pearl and Pat Payne (Producer for Spotlight Theatre) present ways to connect with Denver area theatre. Bring note-taking materials.

Got a Tech Theatre Question?, by Steven McDonald, University of Denver

Come armed with whatever questions you might have about production management, sound, sets, lights and construction. We’ll even discuss computer and sound design, and DMX.

How to audition for College and Conservatory Programs, by
Kathy Morath, AMDA

Performing Arts programs, whether they are academic degrees or skill-based conservatory BFA programs, adhere to a few basic rubrics when auditioning and interviewing prospective students: Is the student a serious candidate for our program? Does the student currently have the basic skills and knowledge regarding the chosen course of study? And does the student come to the interview with a basic understanding of the institution and what it will offer the student? Handouts regarding everything from material selection to proper attire will be distributed. Students should be prepared to perform either a short (32-bar) song or a one-minute monologue.

Hydraulics and Stage Machinery, by Kerry Cripe Guest Artist CU

This workshop will talk about some of the basics of using these technologies to enhance your productions and will include some demonstrations showing these technologies in action.

If I Can Make it There… by Matthew Herrick

How to get into the best University theatre programs and ultimately ‘Make It’ as an actor in today’s Musical Theatre industry. Learn how to research and get into the best University programs for Musical Theatre and Acting, and how to ultimately make it in the rigorous industry of today’s Musical Theatre world. We will discuss and work on the necessary skills in auditioning, singing techniques, acting, and self-marketing, that are essential to begin preparing for successful college acceptance and a career beyond.

Improvise! By Brian McManus

In this introduction to the art of improvisational comedy, you will learn the 3 rules of improv while performing various exercises. We will then apply those rules to the two main types of improvisational theater – long form and short form. It will be more fun than riding a bicycle with no hands, underwater, with a monkey in your backpack.

Improvise: Update Your Status by Brian McManus

No, not on facebook. Grandfather of improv, Keith Johnstone, believes that a high proportion of drama comes from the multiple and tiny ways that people attempt to get what they want by raising or lowering their social status. In this workshop, we will experiment with various methods of showing and changing character status. Caution: this might affect how you see the world.

Improvise: Follow the Follower by Brian McManus

Long form Improvisation works best when the only evident leader is the Group Mind. Using a basic long form scene structure, we will explore the practice of following the follower to connect scenes and characters, illuminate themes, and eradicate “mistakes.” Long form experience preferred.

It’s Not Your Momma’s Lighting Design, by Don Childs, Stagecraft Institute of Las Vegas

Junior Thespians: Monologues, by Samantha Provenzano

In this workshop, actors will get the oppurtunity to perform and workshop their monologues. This will be a safe environment where actors can feel free to make bold choices and speak openly on what works. We will also cover and share quick ways to focus and get in to character for an audition.

Junior Thespians: Scenes, by Samantha Provenzano

This workshop will be an oppurtunity for groups of actors to workshop their scenes. We will cover actor focus, objectives for each character, blocking issues, physicality and orchestration

Keeping Ahead of the Curve, by Stagecraft Institute of Las Vegas

Laban Movement Analysis by Tracy Salter

Ever feel stuck or trapped in your choices for movement while developing your characters? Learn the movement technique of Rudolf Laban. Concentrating on Laban Motion Factors (Space, Weight, Time and Flow) and Efforts (Float, Glide, Dab, Flick, Punch/Thrust, Press, Slash and Wring) students will learn and apply Laban Movement through kinesthetic experience. Laban may also be applied to vocal choices as well as assist actors in emotional connection!

Landing the Role: From High School to Hollywood by Blake Babbitt

In this dynamic on your feet, on-camera workshop, we explore the keys to landing the role in anything, anywhere. Whether you want the lead in the school play, to get accepted to the college of your dreams, or book the lead in a feature film this is the insider information you need to know. Taught by a professional actor who has worked in theatre, television and film, this is the chance to see what it REALLY takes to land the role!

Lighting 101, by Brian Hapcic, UNC Guest Artist

Live from NYC: It’s On Camera Improv!, by NY Conservatory for Dramatic Arts

Long Form Improv – Evente, by Brian McManus

In this workshop, all your long form skills will be put to use while we test out a long form structure developed by Armondo Diaz – Evente. This long form structure employs a narrative style of improvisation requiring performers to hone their storytelling skills. Intermediate to advanced improvisers only.

Making an Entrance (Professional Auditions Start to Finish) by Michael Kary

Turning the tables on how we (actors) view the audition process can help us walk away from each interview a success. Simply knowing how to enter the room, where to stand, and when to leave can make the difference between crafting a career of possibility and a lifetime of frustration.

Masks and Movement by James Peck

This workshop explores the skills of physical expression using masks as the inspiration and central metaphor. It begins with a short discussion about the history and theory of mask work, then progresses to body language and characterization exercises. We will use Neutral, Basic Human and 3/4 Character masks to explore physicalization created from images. The goal is to discover the imaginative power of these simple yet powerful tools.

Mime and Illusion, by Paul Belden

What do sleight of hand, puppetry, prat-falls and Fushigi balls have in common? …the skills of a mime. In this workshop, participants will be introduced to (and practice) basic techniques such as muscle isolations, freezing, balance, misdirection, and making the invisible seen – all with the purpose of creating illusion.

Musical Theatre Coaching, by Cameron Stevens, Equity Actor and Guest Artist

This workshop will improve aspects of any piece you are singing, whether it be technique, acting or presentation. Please bring at least 16-32 bars of a musical theatre selection. An accompanist will be provided. If you desire, you may bring recorded tracks and a player to the workshop. Duet performances or group performances are also welcome, sorry no acapella, please.

Musical Theatre Dance: Combinations Straight from Broadway, by Nathan Balser, Guest Artist

This Broadway dance workshop will give you, the performer, a taste of a Broadway rehearsal. The workshop begins with a contemporary jazz warm-up followed by a Bob Fosse combination from the New York City Center’s 2008 production of Damn Yankees. Then finishes with choreography from Rob Ashford’s 2010 Tony nominated work, Promises, Promises.

Musical Theatre Dance – Fosse!, by Jodi Youmans-Jones, Casper College

Come and learn the style of dance that took Bob Fosse and shows like CHICAGO and CABARET to the top at the Fosse Workshop. This workshop is high energy, full of fun, and deals with the real stuff! Learning everything from the traditional Fosse walk to the actual Broadway choreography of CHICAGO this workshop is worth a try. Be prepared to be tantalized, thrilled, and steamed up, by the time we are done.

Navigating Your Future: What you (or your student) needs to know about College and University Theatre Programs and their differences, by John E. R. Friedenberg, Wake Forest University

The world of post-secondary education available to theatre students after High School can be bewildering. This workshop will help you understand and interpret the terminology and program descriptions and give you the tools and information to understand the different approaches, their particular characteristics, advantages and distinctions including Liberal Arts vs. Conservatory approaches, BA vs. BFA, and other important considerations in evaluating the programs and options best for you.

Partner Charleston, by Joe and Nellie Demers, Denver Swing

As fun as the Charleston is to dance solo, it’s even more fun with a partner. After you’ve learned the Solo Charleston in the morning class, come learn fun partnered moves and combos!

Perfecting Your Individual Event: Acting, by Rex Corr & Dr. Mary Schuttler, Colorado State Board

Please bring your IE materials to this workshop, i.e. scripts and/or music.

Perfecting Your Individual Event: Musical Theatre, by Jill Tjardes, Colorado State Board

Please bring your IE materials to this workshop, i.e. scripts and/or music.

Perfecting Your Individual Event: Tech, by Anne Toewe & Diane Carr, Adjudicators

Please bring your IE materials to this workshop.

Perfecting Your Scholarship Audition, by Brittany Wallis, Audition Coordinator, Colorado State Board

Please bring your scholarship materials to this workshop, i.e. scripts and/or music.

Performance Truth in a Chorus from Les Miz, by James Olm, Guest Artist Casper College

Playwrighting, by Dee Covington, Curious Theatre

Poor Theatre: Making it with few Resources, by Michael Kary, Grand Canyon University

Using nothing but resources like flashlights, candles, pieces of fabric, and whatever else the students might have available, participants are divided into groups and are challenged to “translate” a short poem or non-dramatic passage into a five-minute performance.

Power and Truth in Acting!, by Richard Burk, Casper College

Students will participate in “power-release” exercises geared to full voice and body expressiveness. Using short bits of text (provided) we will transform the inner life of the character into outer action. This workshop is appropriate for all levels of experience, and teachers are invited to participate.

Power of Tying Knots, by Nathan Thompson, CU Denver Technical Theatre Artist

Technical Theatre: “Not what you know but what knot you know” – basic, useful knots for stage and production. Whether this is your first time learning the basic stage knots or a refresher, learn or reinforce your ability to tie such knots as the bowline, the clove hitch, the trucker’s hitch and others.

Preparing a Song for Performance by Richard Shore

This workshop will concentrate on how to approach a full, uncut song that will be sung either in the context of a full production or in a cabaret-style situation. Using the music, words, and structure, we will explore how to build a fully-realized, interesting, and dramatically true performance. There will be opportunity for some attendees to be coached, so please bring music.

Preparing a Song For An Audition by Richard Shore

Presenting a song in an audition situation, whether for casting in a show or for entry into a college program, requires a different type of preparation from getting ready for a full performance. We will concentrate on how to select a song, how to cut a song to the proper length, how to present yourself, how to work with the audition pianist, and what you need to accomplish in the time allotted for the audition. There will be opportunity for some attendees to be coached, so please bring music.

The Principles of Belt, Dr. Patrick Newell

The Principles of Belt is a singing technique developed in the 1960s by Lee Sweetland (teacher of Barbara Streisand) and those who use it can belt or sing legit styles at will. The principles increase belting range, legit power and volume, and when done correctly are very protective of the vocal folds. Singers can use the principles whether singing musical theatre, classical styles, country, pop, or jazz. Hear for yourself the positive effects on the voice through demonstration of students of Dr. Patrick Newell, and learn basics of the technique and how to apply it to your songs.

Red Nose Clown, by
Sondra Blanchard, Guest Artist

Discover clown logic as we improvise, tumble, and groove our way through classic routines (lazzi) and add our own individual twist. Be dressed and prepared to move and laugh in this high-energy, playful workshop. The clown is an eccentric being in complicity with the audience. We’ll explore the basic partnering relationship of self to audience and “minimum to maximum”—the way a small idea grows into madness and mayhem– through games and improvisations. Be dressed and prepared to move and laugh in this high-energy, playful workshop.

Resources for GLBT Thespians, by Cory Barrett, Rainbow Alley

Cory is the director of Rainbow Alley, the youth services division of The LGBT Center in Denver. Cory will share resources that are available to LGBT students and share how you can access those services regardless of where you live. He will also be open to questions and concerns surrounding your school environment and community.

Scenic Painting: Tools, Products and Techniques, by Mary Lucas, UNC

This workshop will examine common (and not so common) tools used in scenic painting. Products used in painting for the theatre will also be covered. By the end of the workshop, students and teachers will be exploring through demonstrations and hands-on work to create realistic wood, bricks and marble for their own theatre productions.

Seven Secrets of the Working Actor by Blake Babbitt

This workshop is open to teachers and students looking for answers to the biggest questions in the business. Do I join the union? Do I need an agent or a manager? Or both? Where do I find an agent? How do I GET an agent? Do I move to Los Angeles, New York, or can I stay near home? I want to audition but WHERE do I find them? Be ready to work like never before in this workshop designed with the professional actor in mind. Do you know the seven secrets?

Shakespeare Code, by Tim Grant

This 5 step process helps actors break down the clues embedded in Shakespeare’s text. With this guide, the actor begins to recognize blocking cues within the lines and build their confidence as performers, as they begin to be “coached by Bill himself”.

Show and Tell Audition Workshop, by Talia Liccardello, Chelsey Hannah, and Nathan Axtell, Golden Ticket Theatre

A lot of students attend the thespian conference in order to audition or compete. To see and be seen! This workshop gives you the chance to present your audition or competition piece in front of a panel of industry professionals, gaining invaluable feedback on your performance. Don’t want to perform? No problem! Watching this process is a terrific way to learn the ins and outs of a successful audition. We’ll cover everything from selecting audition material to perfecting your performance techniques. You won’t want to miss this!

Sing Naked: Acting and Singing Technique Exposed, by Patrick Newell and John O’Hagan

Explore the intersection between Acting principles and Singing technique in this dynamic workshop. Be prepared to sing a Musical Theatre song. Accompanist provided. The workshop is intended for any performer interested in Musical Theatre and the idea of fully blending acting and singing techniques, especially as applied to solo singing. Participants, selected randomly, will perform a Musical Theatre song, which will then be worked in detail in front of the audience. John O’Hagan will focus on exploring the character’s need & tactics, while Patrick Newell will address singing techniques, especially as applied to musical theatre styles. The combination results in work that is technically proficient while at the same time freeing the actor to be dynamically connected to given circumstance, relationship, objective and obstacle.

Singing Broadway Musical Theatre, by Cameron Stevens

Learn some of the simple tricks of the trade to get your voice out and heard. Broadway musical voice includes techniques that are both simple and complex to master. Bring a musical selection to this workshop, and veteran musical theatre performer Cameron Stevens will coach you on making the most of what you got. A must take workshop for anyone interested in training their voice for the big white way.

Singing for Actors – How to Sell the Song, by Cherity Koepke, Opera Colorado

Have you ever wanted to audition for a musical but you don’t think you can sing? Some of the best performers aren’t necessarily the best singers. Sometimes it’s the performance that counts. There’s an art to selling a song and you can learn how. Come and learn tips and tricks to help you make the most of your voice and give a great performance. No singing experience is required.

SketchUp!! Cost Free 3D Design for Your Theater,
by Derek Epstein, UW Guest Artist

This is a workshop that is designed for both students and theatre instructors who would like to change how they plan their set and other scenic elements. As a Student, did you ever read a play and want to design the set for your theater teacher? Ever want to play with shapes and then manipulate them? Or have you ever wanted to make a 3D model of your theater space? As a Theater Instructor, have you ever wanted to see your set before its built on stage? Ever wanted to create a quick blocking diagram for your actors or need a rendering to help show them what the set will be? There is a single piece of software that can do all of these, SketchUp, and guess what.. It’s FREE. In this workshop we will work on a few simple projects to show the tools that SketchUp can provide, and then we will look at its applications when it comes to your theater, production and design needs. If you would like, feel free to bring a laptop (If you are unable to bring a laptop you can play with Sketchup on two display laptops after the workshop).

Sketch Up, Vectorworks and Photoshop, by Nick Embree, Ira Brind School of Theatre Arts, Guest Artist

SNL Style Improv for Theater, by Krista Gano, Innovative Improv Solutions

Are you the next Will Ferrell or Lisa Kudrow? Work hand in hand with Krista Gano, former Executive Director of The Groundlings in Los Angeles (the improv training program that has produced over half the cast of Saturday Night Live since the beginning of the show)! This introductory session will address how improvisation can strengthen an actor’s ability to bond, listen, explore character and learn about self. The technique is great for dramatic and comedic actors alike, and will help actors to free their performance by teaching them to be flourish in the now. You will spend our time working on the basic skills of improvisation. Have lots of questions about the industry? There will also be time for a question & answer period.

Solo Charleston by Danielle Hatley

Moving your own body well is an important component to being able to move well with a partner. Learn footwork, moves and stylizations of the most popular dance craze that every swept America.

Stage Combat I: Introduction to Hand to Hand Combat, by Erin Ramsey and Chris Russell, Guest Artists

Plays from classic to contemporary works frequently call for characters to enter into physical conflict. This workshop introduces the basics of performing staged fights including safeties and how to be a good partner. Techniques include falling down, and basic unarmed stage combat. This workshop is high energy and requires active participation and movement.

Stage Combat II: Introduction to Swashbuckling by Erin Ramsey and Chris Russell, Guest Artists

From Shakespeare to Peter Pan, Ballet to Musical Theatre, swordplay is an exciting and audience pleasing element. It is also fraught with danger – danger of looking amateurish and actual physical danger for actors. This introductory workshop will cover one style of swordplay – swashbuckling (thar be pirates!) but will serve as an excellent springboard to avoiding dangers and pitfalls when weapons are used onstage. Prerequisite: Stage Combat I or equivalent class taught by Erin Ramsey. Space is limited, arrive early.

Stage Management: Calling a Show and Dealing With Your Peers by Sean Macintosh

We will discuss what it means to be a stage manager and working with actors, directors and designers and what the stage mangers role is in these relationships. Then we will role play seniors and discuss the preferred ways for a stage manger to handle these situations.

Strong Improv Characters, by Kirsten Caldwell, Gaining Perspective

Let’s explore the fact that every character you ever play in improv comes from you and your own perspective on life. Seriously? It’s that easy? Yeah, it is. Watching someone find a new character through their actualized physicality, emotion and even sense memory is thrilling and far more compelling than watching someone working at being a character. Once you tap into your own perspective of the world, your well of characters shall never run dry.

Successful Understanding and Execution of Choreography, by Laurence Curry, DCPA

Learn powerful tools that will help you understand the way you learn movement successfully. Participants will be taught different techniques while learning a dance combination that will be applicable to their kinetic processing of information. Once we know how we process this information we are then set up for successful execution of choreography.

Swing Aerials by Danielle Hatley

* Partner Required * Everything you need to know to prepare you for flight.

Swing Dancing 1 by Danielle Hatley

This workshop is designed to introduce you to the basic moves and footwork for performing swing dancing on stage. You’ll learn the high-energy, fun moves of swing, plus the figures and combinations essential to all swing dancers. This class is perfect for those who have never danced before, as well as those looking for some new moves.

Swing Dancing for the Stage by Danielle Hatley

We’ll use what you learn in Swing Dancing 1 and will teach a routine comprised of lead-able moves geared toward entertaining the audience. Improve your stage presence, self-esteem, coordination, creativity, attentiveness, and communication skills.

Swing Dancing 2 by Danielle Hatley

This workshop will focus on the high-energy moves and footwork that make swing dancing so much fun to watch and do. (Please attend Swing Dancing 1)

Tablework: Unlocking the Door to Dynamic Direction, by Amy Feinberg, University of the Arts

How does a director approach table work and best communicate with actors to shape performances under a unified vision? We will explore the actor/director relationship and how to craft specific, efficient and positive choices to unlock the door to an organic process that begins with script, works with impulses to guide blocking, and ultimately results in grounded, active, and driven performance.

Tackling Monologues, By Samantha Provenzano

Tech Olympics, University of Wyoming Student Chapter by RMUSITT

This workshop gives students a chance to put their skills to the test in a competition to see who is the fastest and the best at light focusing, prop changes, and costume changes.

Technical Theatre: Casting Body Parts and Prosthetics, by Anne Murphy, CU Guest Artist

Technical Theatre: Intimates of Underwear, by Ted Stark and Brenda King, CU Guest Artists

Technical Theatre: Quick Pattern Making, by Ted Stark, CU Guest Artist

Theatre, Friends, and SSOs, by the Colorado State Student Officers

Join the Colorado State Student Thespian Officers on an incredible journey through theatre! Experience everything from improvisation to character acting in this fun-filled workshop of glamour and color. Exercises will address: warm-ups, character/acting, stage movement, and improvisation.

Theatrical Make-up, by Maggie Stillman, Norcostco

Learn how much fun stage Make-up can be! We will discuss Make-up products, the creation of a personal Make-up kit, and there will be a demonstration to introduce special effects and character Make-up.

Theatrical Movement, by Theresa Collins, Guest Artist

Junior Thespians will enjoy this workshop, which explores theatrical movement through exercises and role- play. Be prepared to move and have fun!

There is no “I” in Team or Crew! by Stagecraft Institute of Las Vegas

Things I Wish I’d Known…, by Brian Hughes, Guest Artist

Tips, tricks and practical advice for surviving the first year of an acting career. Information on getting your foot in the door, self-promotion, networking, audition advice, casting, business acumen, unions and and what to do after you landed that first job.

Tricks of Speaking Shakespeare, by Erik Hellman, Equity Actor

When speaking Shakespeare, it is not enough just to know what you are saying, you also have to make the audience understand what you mean. This workshop provides tips, techniques and tricks to insure that your verse speaking is clear, contemporary and immediate.

Troupe Leadership for Thespian Officer’s, by ITO and SSO’s

The International Thespian Officer for Region 1 will be present to conduct a leadership workshop for all thespian officers. Colorado State Student Officer’s will be present to assist with the workshop and share information about their duties and how you can apply to be a State Student Officer.

Truth In Comedy: Unlocking your Presence and Spontaneity, by Allison Watrous

Are you inspired by the comedic chops of Tina Fey, Mike Myers, Amy Poehler and Bill Murray? Learn the technique of their master teacher, Del Close, in this fun and active class. This workshop will challenge you to explore the world of comedy through truth. Improv exercises will unlock presence and spontaneity to connect you to your own comedic inspiration.

Viewpoints of Time and Space by Chip Parsons

This workshop will provide a brief introduction to the Viewpoints. Participants must be prepared and dressed to move freely and vigorously. The Viewpoints is a technique of improvisation that grew out of the post-modern dance world. It was first articulated by choreographer Mary Overlie, who broke down the two dominant issues performers deal with – time and space – into sub-categories. Since that time, Anne Bogart and colleagues have expanded Overlie’s notions and adapted them for actors. They are introduced through improvisation, first individually and then all together. The Viewpoints helps a group of actors to function together spontaneously and intuitively, and to generate bold, theatrical work quickly. It develops flexibility, articulation and strength in movement, and enhances ensemble playing. Equally important for actors and directors, the Viewpoints provides a highly physical training that compliments all other acting techniques and styles.

Vocal Boot Camp, by Cherity Koepke, Guest Artist Opera Colorado

Voicework for the Stage, by Tamara Meneghini-Stalker, CU

Come experience some exercises designed to help you warm-up and open-up your voice! We will cover some of the basics of breath, support, and diction required for the stage. Please wear comfortable clothing and be prepared to breathe!

Voice Over and Character Work, by Mike Rock, Actor/Chelsea Lately Show

Learn about the business of voice over and character work from veteran actor and voice over expert Mike Rock, in this stimulating workshop on the alternative jobs available in the industry. Mike will share with you techniques and style to the conventions of voice over and character development. This is a fun and participatory workshop that will enhance your repertoire.

Voice Over and Dialect Techniques, CU Student Guest Artist

Why is that Funny? – A Comedy Workshop, by Allison Watrous, DCPA

How come one person can tell a joke and the whole room explodes with laugher and someone does and we all cry? Comedy is a science. In this workshop, students will analyze different types of laughter, the “OK signal,” and the power of specifics. Come learn the basics of refining your . . . timing.

YES! (for Junior Thespians), by Kirsten Caldwell, Gaining Perspective

The most important rule of improvisation lies in one word… YES! When you say yes to this moment, you open yourself up to freedom, community and pure fun! Together we’ll explore how saying yes, even to things that seem uncomfortable, actually makes you a better player and helps you to gain personal confidence as well as the confidence of those you are working with.

Yoga For Every Body by Mary Lucas

Everyone can benefit from yoga and it’s not just about tying yourself into knots. The benefits include stress relief, greater flexibility, and developing strength and balance, not only in your body, but in your life. All levels welcome, not just for actors, but teachers and techies, too!

Yours, Mime and Ours, by Paul Belden

Virtual Design for Technical Theatre, by Kent Homchick, CU Guest Artist
Digital Tools for Film & Theater Designers to Visualization & Communicate

So much of film and theater production design now occurs on computers and is delivered through computers. There is a diverse range of 2D and 3D graphics software applications in use in the industry to create digital renderings, drafting and visualizations that aspiring technicians and designers should have an awareness of in theater and film production. Our workshop will demonstrate digital tools, techniques and capabilities of these 2D & 3D digital graphics tools, as well as discuss the workflow in film and theater production design.

Vocal Performance Master Class, by Cherity Koepke, Opera Colorado

How do you keep your voice healthy? What are the best ways to warm up? What kind of audition pieces are the best? What do you do if your voice cracks? How do you make your voice a part of your character? These and many other questions will be answered through this interactive workshop. Participants will learn professional technique in everything from breath control to dynamics, singing with emotion and beyond. No singing experience is required.

Vocal Boot Camp, by Cherity Koepke

How do you keep your voice healthy? What are the best ways to warm up? How do you extend your range or keep your voice from cracking? How do you prepare to speak or sing for a performance? These and many other questions will be answered through this interactive workshop. Participants will learn professional technique in everything from breath control to dynamics, singing and speaking with emotion and beyond. No singing experience is required.