Episodes

  • Episode #9: Breaking Barriers ~ ADEI and Empowering Marginalized Voices and Creating Inclusive Spaces in Theater with Dan Johnson

    Episode #9: Breaking Barriers ~ ADEI and Empowering Marginalized Voices and Creating Inclusive Spaces in Theater with Dan Johnson
    Oct 18 2024
    Welcome to the "State of Field" Podcast, where we delve into the latest developments in Applied Drama and Theater for Youth, Theater for Young Audiences and Theater in Education Research Communities. Hosted by ADTY MFA candidate Robert Smith.
    In this episode of the "State of Field" podcast, Dan Johnson discusses his personal journey and commitment to Access, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (ADEI) in Michigan's theater scene, focusing on the challenges faced by marginalized communities in traditionally white/Eurocentric spaces. He shares insights from his work as an advocate for ADEI at the University of Michigan and explores strategies for creating more inclusive environments, including the use of tools like inclusivity audits and meaningful casting choices. Drawing from key ADEI resource publications, Dan reflects on how educators and theater professionals can promote self-determination, antiracism, and decolonial practices in youth theater education, ensuring underrepresented voices are heard. Throughout, Dan emphasizes the need for ongoing, tangible action to foster genuinely inclusive, equitable spaces in theater, while also offering hope for a more diverse and empowered future in both youth and professional theater.
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    47 mins
  • Episode #8: Beyond the City Limits: Advancing Rural Youth Theater with Olivia Allen

    Episode #8: Beyond the City Limits: Advancing Rural Youth Theater with Olivia Allen
    Sep 27 2024
    Welcome to the "State of Field" Podcast, where we delve into the latest developments in Applied Drama and Theater for Youth, Theater for Young Audiences and Theater in Education Research Communities. Hosted by ADTY MFA candidate Robert Smith.
    In this podcast episode, Olivia Allen, a third-year graduate student in Applied Drama and Theater for Youth, discusses the importance of rural youth theater and the unique opportunities it provides for young people in rural communities. Olivia shares her journey into rural theater education and addresses common misconceptions and biases surrounding rural youth theater, such as the belief that these communities lack artistic interest or talent. She emphasizes the need to create inclusive, supportive spaces for marginalized youth, highlighting how rural theater can provide a safe haven for those who may feel isolated. Olivia also touches on the logistical challenges of rural theater, such as limited rehearsal space and competing commitments, while offering insights into how theater educators can help young performers take risks and overcome fears. Finally, Olivia discusses the significance of presenting challenging themes in rural settings and how nuanced approaches can bridge cultural differences, fostering deeper connections between rural communities and the arts.
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    43 mins
  • Episode #6: Pt. 2 The Good, The Bad, The Awkward: Presenting Best Middle School Classroom Management Practices at the 2024 AATE Conference

    Episode #6: Pt. 2 The Good, The Bad, The Awkward: Presenting Best Middle School Classroom Management Practices at the 2024 AATE Conference
    Aug 6 2024
    Welcome to the "State of Field" Podcast, where we delve into the latest developments in Applied Drama and Theater for Youth, Theater for Young Audiences and Theater in Education Research Communities. Hosted by ADTY MFA candidate Robert Smith.
    In this follow-up podcast interview I will be asking Lauren about her experience as a presenter at the 2024 American Alliance of Theater Educators (AATE) conference in Chicago. We will be exploring the purpose of presenting seminars and workshops not only as a recent EMU ADTY MFA graduate but also as a seasoned Theater and Drama educator, director and Theater in Education colleague. Lauren reveals her secrets of successful middle school classroom management as well as building community through sharing her love of Theater & Drama Education and how working with youth has inspired her ongoing love for seeing her students grow and excel in their theater making skills. Lauren is definitely someone to look up in theater education and I am so excited for this opportunity to sit down with her and listen, learn and get excited about working with teens in Drama and Theater Education.
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    38 mins
  • Episode 7: Demystifying Theater for Young Audiences with Meriah Sage

    Episode 7: Demystifying Theater for Young Audiences with Meriah Sage
    Apr 15 2024
    Welcome to the "State of Field" Podcast, where we delve into the latest developments in Applied Drama and Theater for Youth, Theater for Young Audiences and Theater in Education Research Communities. Hosted by ADTY MFA candidate Robert Smith.
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    30 mins
  • Episode 6 Pt. 1: Inspiring Students: The Impact of ADTY on Classroom Practice with Lauren Neuwirth

    Episode 6 Pt. 1: Inspiring Students: The Impact of ADTY on Classroom Practice with Lauren Neuwirth
    Apr 6 2024
    Welcome to the "State of Field" Podcast, where we delve into the latest developments in Applied Drama and Theater for Youth, Theater for Young Audiences and Theater in Education Research Communities. Hosted by ADTY MFA candidate Robert Smith.
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    30 mins
  • Episode 5: Empowering Voices - Sam Carter's Vision for Inclusive Theater

    Episode 5: Empowering Voices - Sam Carter's Vision for Inclusive Theater
    Mar 19 2024
    Welcome to the "State of Field" Podcast, where we delve into the latest developments in Applied Drama and Theater for Youth, Theater for Young Audiences and Theater in Education Research Communities. Hosted by ADTY MFA candidate Robert Smith.
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    47 mins
  • Episode 4: Shaping the Future - Perspectives on Applied Drama and Theater with Decky Alexander

    Episode 4: Shaping the Future - Perspectives on Applied Drama and Theater with Decky Alexander
    Mar 13 2024
    Welcome to the "State of Field" Podcast, where we delve into the latest developments in Applied Drama and Theater for Youth, Theater for Young Audiences and Theater in Education Research Communities. Hosted by ADTY MFA candidate Robert Smith.
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    28 mins
  • Episode 3 - Bridging Cultures: An International Student's ADTY Perspective

    Episode 3 - Bridging Cultures: An International Student's ADTY Perspective
    Mar 7 2024
    Welcome to the "State of Field" Podcast, where we delve into the latest developments in Applied Drama and Theater for Youth, Theater for Young Audiences and Theater in Education Research Communities. Hosted by ADTY MFA candidate Robert Smith.
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    24 mins