EdCon Program 2024

Welcome!

The premier resource for Georgia’s theatre educator community.

On behalf of the Georgia Educational Theatre Association and Georgia Thespians, I am pleased to extend a warm welcome to the Georgia Theatre Educators Conference 2024, which will be held under the inspiring theme “Reimagining your Theatre Program: Coloring Outside the Box.” This year’s theme challenges us to think creatively and innovate beyond the traditional boundaries of theatre education. As we navigate a world that demands flexibility and imagination, “Coloring Outside the Box” invites us to reimagine what is possible in our programs, encouraging new approaches and fresh perspectives.

Over the next two days, we will embark on a journey of exploration, collaboration, and growth. Our conference is designed to provide you with a rich tapestry of experiences, including workshops, discussions, and connections, all geared towards enhancing your skills, enriching your knowledge, and igniting your passion for theatre.

As we gather here, let’s remember the importance of our role as theatre educators. We are privileged to nurture the next generation of artists, storytellers, and change-makers. Together, we can inspire creativity, foster empathy, and empower our students to shape a brighter future through the arts.

I encourage you to embrace this conference as a space for learning, sharing, and rejuvenation. Let’s acknowledge the challenges we’ve faced and celebrate the resilience and determination that have brought us here today.

Thank you for being so dedicated to theatre education in Georgia. Your presence at this conference is a testament to your commitment to our craft and your passion for “Coloring Outside the Box” in the theatre world.

Welcome to the Georgia Theatre Educators Conference 2024 - where we unite in the spirit of creativity and innovation!

Nicholas Sostillio Chapter Director Georgia Educational Theatre Association EDCON

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Keynote Speakers Krista Carson Elhai

Krista taught HS theatre for 38 years where she directed 300+ shows in a department of 500 students and her productions performed mainstage at the California State Thespian Festival and the International Thespian Festival. Serving on the CA Thespian Board since 1993 Krista was the CA Chapter Director for eleven years and is the current President of the EdTA board and a Trustee for the EdTA Foundation. She is co-director of Theatre Teacher Bootcamp, is currently a field supervisor for preservice teachers at CSU East Bay, and works with performing arts teachers to clear their credentials. Krista has been inducted into the California and Educational Theatre National Hall of Fame. She is active in local and state politics as a member of many campaign committees, and most recently worked to pass Proposition 28 which guaranteed sustained funding for the arts in California schools.

Dr. Jimmy Chrismon

Jimmy Chrismon, EdD is an associate professor of Theatre Teacher Education at Illinois State University. He has 23 years experience in educational theatre in high schools, colleges and universities, and as a teaching artist. He is the host of the THED Talks Podcast. He is a director, actor, intimacy director, and mental health coordinator.

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Workshops and Presenters Applied Arts: The Role of Arts in STEAM Classrooms

Curriculum Planning, STEAM What role do arts play in STEAM classrooms and schools? Come explore accessible techniques to incorporate interdisciplinary STEAM lessons into your theatre classroom as well as some ways to encourage colleagues to reinforce theatre standards in content disciplines. This workshop will clarify GaDOE’s definition of STEAM and provide opportunities to plan outside of traditional classroom silos.

Presenter - Sally Baker, STEM/STEAM Specialist for the Georgia Department of Education, works closely with arts and non-arts teachers to build interdisciplinary learning experiences for students. Sally’s experience in secondary English and Theatre classrooms is balanced with 15 years in professional theater companies in Georgia, Ohio, San Francisco, Austin and Nashville. She believes strongly in the power of the arts to transform education. _____________________________________________________________

“Block-Buster”: The Building Blocks to Build Your Own Acting Blocks

Set Construction Join us for a hands-on, show-stopping workshop where you’ll learn the secrets of building cost-effective Acting Blocks—the versatile stars of any rehearsal space or theatre classroom.

Note: No prior carpentry experience required. All tools and materials provided.

Patrick Hamilton is a freelance scenic designer and the Technical Director of Theatre and Dance at Georgia College and State University. He has garnered recognition from the Kennedy Center for his achievements in both Technical Direction and Scenic Design, in addition to winning a prestigious Broadway World Regional Award for Best Scenic Design of a Musical. Hamilton shares his expertise through workshops covering Technical Theatre Basics, Scenic Carpentry, and Theatrical Lighting and Sound. His scenic work has taken the stage across Georgia, featured in venues from universities such as Georgia College, Mercer, and Wesleyan to esteemed theaters like The Bill Heard Theatre and The Grand Opera House. Explore his work at patwhamilton.com.

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Workshops and Presenters Circle Up: A Physical, Play-based Approach to Building an Ensemble

Acting, Curriculum Planning, Directing, Movement/Dance Instruction Beginning a class or a rehearsal process is always like starting from scratch. How can we come together in a way that will empower individual voices, encourage a collective step out of comfort zones, and provide unified focus towards our ultimate goal? Come join Director/Choreographer Jodye Underwood for a workshop that’s a glimpse into how she starts every new project, regardless of age, experience level, or setting. Filled with games, movement exercises, and team challenges, you will come in a group of strangers and end up as a confident, unified ensemble ready for a collaborative creative journey!

Presenter - Jodye Underwood is a professional director, choreographer, and movement director based just outside of Atlanta. She is also a passionate educator who has worked in all settings - studios, schools, camps, and workshops - with every age group and experience level on dance, acting, movement, and physical storytelling. She has an MFA in Directing from The University of Southern Mississippi, where she really developed her approach to imaginative, ensemble-based storytelling. She is a Part-time Faculty member at Kennesaw State University, is an Adjunct Professor for Jacksonville State University, and spends the rest of her time playing and having adventures with her two young children. _____________________________________________________________

Creating Spectacular, Low Tech Shadow Puppet Performances

Puppets Shadow puppets are one of the most visually impressive forms of puppet theatre. This make and take workshop will introduce different design and construction styles and performance techniques that can be easily used at your school.

Presenter - Dr. Jim Davis in an Associate Professor of Theatre and Performance Studies at KSU. He teaches theatre history, coordinates the department’s General Education course, and directs plays. He’s also an experienced puppet theatre artist who has created numerous solo and devised productions using a variety of performance styles. _____________________________________________________________

Exploring Fabric Manipulation Techniques

Costume Construction The workshop aims to equip high school teachers with fundamental skills and knowledge in various fabric manipulation techniques, enabling them to incorporate these techniques into their curriculum to enhance student learning experiences in textiles and fashion design.

Presenter - Ricky Greenwell is proud to be the Assistant Professor of Theatre, Costume Design and Technology at Kennesaw State University. Ricky is a costume, hair, and makeup designer for the entertainment industry. His designs have brought over 150 productions to life. He holds an MFA from Wayne State University in Costume Design and Technology. He received a BS from Eastern Michigan University.

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Workshops and Presenters Georgia Council for the Arts Resources for Theatre Educators

Program Planning & Organization In this session, we’ll explore multiple resources available to K12 theatre programs through the Georgia Council for the Arts (GCA). Success stories from statewide theatre education projects will be showcased to highlight their significant contributions to K12 schools and partnerships exploring community enrichment. Attendees will be led through activities to explore Teaching with Primary Sources, a program by the Library of Congress, the potential for Teaching Artist partnerships, grant opportunities, and K-12 arts-integration and STEAM connections.

Presenter - Emily Yewell Volin (she/her) is the Grants and Arts Education Program Manager for the Georgia Council for the Arts and oversees Arts Education Grants as well as Arts Education programs such as Poetry Out Loud, the Poet Laureate’s Prize, and the Teaching Artist Registry. She is a licensed P-12 educator in Georgia with a B.S. in Elementary Education from Loyola University Chicago and her MFA in Theatre Arts with an emphasis in Dance from the University of Arizona. Her career spans professional performance, university faculty, teaching artistry, journalism and administrative roles. Emily is resolute about the arts being accessible to all and valued as a form of recreation, expression, K-12 classroom integration, and professional industry. _____________________________________________________________

Historical Makeup Design

Makeup This workshop offers a unique opportunity to explore the cultural, social, and artistic influences that have shaped makeup trends over centuries. Through interactive demonstrations and practical exercises, you’ll gain valuable insights into the techniques, materials, and styles used in makeup throughout history.

Presenter - Ricky Greenwell (See Exploring Fabric Manipulation Techniques _____________________________________________________________

Let’s Play! Teaching Playwriting & Devising

Playwriting & Devising Learn hands-on exercises and approaches to teaching playwriting and devising in the classroom through active participation and inviting engagement. With a focus on helping students beat writer’s block, take creative risks, and find their individual voices, this workshop is suited for educators new to this topic as well as anyone looking to support or enhance current programming. Participants should bring a notepad and writing utensil and dress for light movement.

Presenter - ​​Nicole B. Adkins is co-author of Playwriting and Young Audiences: Collected Wisdom and Practical Advice from the Field (Intellect Press, 2017) and has ten plays published through YouthPLAYS press. Award-winning playwright, dramaturg, and teaching artist for over 25 years, Nicole is Core Visiting Faculty at Playwright’s Lab Hollins University and Assistant Professor part-time at Kennesaw University. Her plays for young audiences have been produced nationally and abroad. www.nicolebadkins.com.

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Workshops and Presenters Performing with Ms. Pay

Movement/Dance Instruction In this class, educators are destined to have fun! We will focus on how to perform with the entire body, especially the face. By exploring body language and performance quality, educators will learn how to drive pupils to expand outside their comfort zone with different techniques and exercises. We will build community, empower individuality, and gain self-awareness with confidence through movement.

Presenter - Pytron Parker is a Georgia native, who has built a life around the performing arts. She is a storyteller, choreographer, educator and creative. Her ministry is to plant as many artistic seeds as possible before her time is up on this earth. _____________________________________________________________

Strategic Planning for your Theatre Program

Program Planning & Organization We will start with an analysis of a theatre program-what’s working, what makes money, what brings in a large audience, how do you connect your program with your community? We will then create a 6-month, 1-3-5-year strategic plan which will include a department mission statement, how to communicate your vision, and how the design of your season can fulfill many of your goals. Participants will walk away with a blueprint for taking their program to the next level.

Presenter - Krisa Carson Elhai (See keynote speaker bio) _____________________________________________________________

Stress-Free Shakespeare

Acting, Dramaturgy The workshop approaches Shakespeare from a hands-on dramaturgy-based perspective. Through practical exercises focusing on creative discovery and improv, learn tools to avoid the pitfalls of doing Shakespeare “properly.” How can we explore the text like a dramaturgical search for clues and possibilities for performance?

We will review foundational, hands-on ways to analyze and unpack heightened language. You’ll take away interactive assignments to encourage a more stress-free Shakespeare on your stages and in your classroom.

Presenter - Dr. Tom Fish is Assistant Professor of Theatre History & Theory and Resident Dramaturg at Kennesaw State. Dramaturgy credits include Taper Too Festival (Mark Taper Forum), Crucible (Matrix), Monstress (New Ohio Theatre), and over ten plays in development.

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Workshops and Presenters The Heights of Hip Hop with Pay

Movement/Dance Instruction A general overview of types of lighting fixtures, uses for each kind of fixture, basic installation skills, basic troubleshooting/electrical knowledge, introductory console training. This workshop can really be tailored to the areas most needed by attendees. I’m well-versed in programming, electrical knowledge, repair practices, and soldering LED components. The idea would be to have this be a very hands-on experience for people to dig into the inner workings of lighting components and setup.

Presenter - Pytron Parker (See Performing With Ms. Pay) _____________________________________________________________

Theatre for Young Audiences (TYA): A Mentorship Model

Dramaturgy In this workshop we will investigate best practices for mentorship-inspired programming in which older students create and/or perform theatre experiences for younger audiences.

We will engage in hands-on exercises while exploring: What is TYA? What are the different categories and possibilities? How do I prepare my students to work effectively and successfully with younger students? Please bring a notepad and writing utensil and dress for light movement.

Presenter - ​​Nicole B. Adkins is co-author of Playwriting and Young Audiences: Collected Wisdom and Practical Advice from the Field (Intellect Press, 2017) and has ten plays published through YouthPLAYS press. Award-winning playwright, dramaturg, and teaching artist for over 25 years, Nicole is Core Visiting Faculty at Playwright’s Lab Hollins University and Assistant Professor part-time at Kennesaw University. Her plays for young audiences have been produced nationally and abroad. www.nicolebadkins.com. _____________________________________________________________

Trauma-Informed Practices for Theatre Education Trauma-Informed Practices/Mental Health

In this interactive workshop, participants will explore what it means to be a traumainformed theatre teacher. They will practically work through some of the basic tools of trauma-informed work that is tailored to theatre classes and productions with practical exercises, meaningful discussions, and practical strategies to take back to their schools right away.

Presenter - Dr. Jimmy Chrismon (See keynote speaker bio)

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