Academic

Teaching Statement

As an educator, my courses are focused on the technique and territories of physical theatre, and on the creation of new theatre through devised collective collaboration. My teaching philosophy is an extension of my personal artistic practice and creative process, and my aim is to create a safe environment in which my students feel empowered to explore and foster their artistic impulses.

Teaching Philosophy

Photo: Susan Miyagishima

New Work Creation

  • Collective Collaboration 

  • Devised Theatre

  • Ensemble Theatre

Teaching Specializations

Physical Theatre

  • Frantic Assembly

  • Laban Technique

  • Lecoq Technique

    • Movement Technique, Embodiment of the Abstract and External, Neutral Mask, Larval Mask, Expressive Mask, Melodrama, Commedia dell’Arte, Bouffon, Tragic Chorus, Clown

  • Prattki Pedagogy

    • Platform, Farce, The Social Grotesque, The Fantastical World

  • Puppetry

  • Viewpoints

Academic CV

Post Secondary Teaching Experience

  • Part-Time Adjunct Professor

    (Age range 17-22)

    • 2nd Year Movement (upcoming)

      Development and execution of a foundational curriculum focused on impulse and embodiment work, the transposition of abstract physical explorations into theatrical performances, and collaborative devising techniques.

    • 3rd Year Devising

      This course was an opportunity for the 3rd year students to create two brand new pieces, using a variety of devising techniques and non-traditional access points.

    • BFA Acting Admissions Committee

      Responsible for the physical warm up and welcome for applicants. Member of the assessment team choosing the BFA class (and wait list) for 2023/2024 and 2024/2025.

    • Brave New Play Rites

      Dramaturgical and directorial support of four new scripts by emerging writers from the UBC School of Creative Writing. This program culminated in staged readings.

  • Summer Intensive Faculty Member

    (Age range 18-45)

    • Dynamic Ensemble Theatre

      Development and execution of a curriculum focused on whole body engagement with natural forms and forces via movement and gesture. Foundations of the actor’s presence and resonance in the space of the stage. Lecoq Neutral Mask, Element work, Animal work, Non-Traditional Access Points (music, paintings, poetry).

  • Faculty Member

    (Age range 17-22)

    • Acting I, Unit One

      Development and execution of a foundational curriculum focused on impulse and embodiment work, the transposition of abstract physical explorations into theatrical performances, and collaborative devising techniques.

    • Physical Theatre Territories II, Unit One

      Development and execution of an intermediate-level Tragic Chorus course focused on connection to the ensemble, space, and text. Students developed an understanding of what it means to be a part of an ensemble, as well as learned the foundations of theatrical collaboration.

    • Physical Theatre Territories II, Unit Two

      Development and execution of an intermediate-level Commedia dell’Arte based course focused on Theatrical Archetypes, comedic construction and performance, and collaborative devising techniques.

  • Sessional Instructor

    (Age range 17-22)

    • Writing & Devising Theatre (Co-Instructor)

      Development and execution of an advanced interdisciplinary and practice-based course providing students with a foundation in creating and working with alternative texts. Using non-traditional access points such as found image, sound, and text, students wrote, devised, and self-produced original theatrical compositions. Curriculum focused on both skill acquisition and skill application, culminating in an opportunity for students to present their devised work.

  • Facilitator and Director

    (Age range 17-22)

    • Risky Nights

      This program is an opportunity for the 4th term students to create and produce a brand new show, with guidance from a professional in the community. Took on the role of facilitator during the devising process, and the role of director through to production.

Select Teaching Experience

  • Faculty Member

    (Adults)

    • Monologue and Scene Study Coaching.

  • Program Lead and Instructor (upcoming)

    (Adults)

    • Curriculum development and facilitation for a group of adults creating a devised theatre piece.

    Co-Instructor

    • Movement based support for a group of adults creating a devised theatre piece.

  • Co-Facilitator

    (Age range 12-16)

    • Facilitation and support for a group of students creating an original and collaborative theatre piece. Year long program.

    Workshop Leader

    • Facilitation of a workshop in the Lecoq Technique.

  • Workshop Leader

    (Age range 13-18)

    • Facilitation of workshops in the Lecoq Technique.

Arts Club Theatre Company | Vancouver, BC | (2018-present)

Bard on the Beach (Bard Education) | Vancouver, BC | (2018-present)

  • Workshop Leader

    (Adults)

    • Facilitation of workshops in both the Lecoq and Laban Techniques.

    Guest Instructor

    (Adults)

    • Directorial support with the aim of helping the ensemble mount a Shakespearean play.

  • Virtual Teaching Artist

    (Age range 6-18)

    • Leader for both “Ask an Actor” and “An Actor at Work” sessions, which focus on Shakespearean text work and free form discussions. Virtual program.

    Supporting Teaching Artist

    (Age range 6-18)

    • Support for the Lead Teaching Artist in giving students first-hand experience in the art of playing Shakespeare. In-school program.

  • Workshop Leader

    (Adults)

    • Facilitation of the following workshops: Lecoq Element Work and Shakespearean Monologues, Theatrical Archetypes - Connecting Commedia Dell'Arte to Shakespeare.

  • Coach

    (Age range 13-22)

    • Professional advice, directorial support, and coaching for Bard Youth Fest Troupes creating an original and collaborative theatre piece inspired by Shakespearean works. In-school program.

  • Facilitator

    (Age range 17-22)

    • Directorial support and education in collaborative devising methods with the aim of helping the ensemble mount a Shakespearean review.

    Mentor

    (Age range 17-22)

    • Professional and personal advice, guidance, and support to a Riotous Youth emerging artist.

  • Guest Actor

    (All Ages)

    • Facilitation of an interactive speech masterclass for all ages and all experience levels.

  • Lead Teaching Artist

    (Age range 13-18)

    • Creation and execution of a curriculum with the focus on exploring a Shakespearean play through collaborative devising methods.

    Supporting Teaching Artist

    (Age range 13-18)

    • Support for a Lead Teaching Artist in mounting a Shakespearean play or showcase.

Get in Touch