Teaching Statement
My teaching is rooted in what I call serious play, an experiential learning process whereby students put theory into practice and live theatre while learning about it. I teach actors how to bring as much of their artistic selves to their roles as possible so that their performances are grounded, engaged, and fully alive. For example, I use theatre games to illustrate foundational concepts like action, objectives, and tactics. I starting utilizing this approach in some of my earliest experiences in higher education. Much of my work since has been with student populations from non-traditional backgrounds, including first-generation college students, students from under-resourced communities, and adult learners returning to higher education later in life. I’ve found that, whether a student comes from an Ivy League school or a community college, playing helps them understand concepts both practically and intellectually. It also has the added benefit of being fun, which helps make abstract artistic theories accessible and bolsters student engagement. After all, it’s called a play—so play!
I currently serve as Assistant Professor of Theatre at CT State-Tunxis, where I also oversee all aspects of the theatre department. I previously taught at Eastern Connecticut State University, Southern Connecticut State University, Elm Shakespeare Company, and served as Director of Education at Playhouse on Park.
