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Important Links and Forms

Meeting Schedule

The following is the Show Meeting Schedule for Spring 2023. Meetings are held in D207 unless otherwise indicated.

 

January 2023           

Thurs., Jan. 12, 2023 11 a.m. Dance Faculty Retreat – Location TBD
Wed., Jan. 18, 2023 5:30 p.m. THDN Majors & Minors Meeting - E. Turner Stump Theatre   
Fri., Jan. 20, 2023 9 a.m. Re-envisioning the Kent Core – Listening Meeting
  1:15 p.m. "Urinetown" – Production Meeting
  2 p.m. "Somewhere" – Design Meeting #4 
  3:30 p.m. THDN School Faculty & Staff Meeting – Location TBD
Fri., Jan. 27, 2023 1:15 p.m. "Urinetown" – Production Meeting 
  2 p.m. KDE – Design/Production Meeting

February 2023           

Fri., Feb. 3, 2023 1:15 p.m. "Urinetown" – Production Meeting
  2 p.m. Fall 2023 Show #1 Design Meeting #1
  3:30 p.m. THDN FAC Meeting
Tues., Feb. 7, 2023 TBD Discover Theatre and Dance Day   
Fri,. Feb. 10, 2023 9 a.m. Fall 2023 Show #1 Design Meeting #2 
  1:15 p.m. "Urinetown" – Production Meeting
  2 p.m. "Somewhere" – Design Meeting #5 Final
Fri., Feb. 17, 2023 1:15 p.m. BFA/SDF Filming – Production Meeting
  2 p.m. KDE – Design/Production Meeting
Fri., Feb. 24, 2023   No Production/Design Meetings
  5:30 p.m. Roe Green Guest Director 20th Anniversary
  7:30 p.m. Opening Night of "Urinetown"
Sat., Feb. 25, 2023 TBD School-wide THDN Open House  

March 2023 

Fri., March 3, 2023 1:15 p.m. "Somewhere" – Production Meeting
  2 p.m. KDE – Design/Production Meeting (tentative) 
Fri., March 10, 2023 9 a.m. Fall 2023 Show #1 Design Meeting #3 
  1:15 p.m. "Somewhere" – Production Meeting 
  3:30 p.m. THDN FAC
Tue., March 14, 2023 TBD Discover Theatre and Dance Day
Fri., March 17, 2023 1:15 p.m. "Somewhere" – Production Meeting
  2 p.m. KDE – Production Meeting
Fri., March 24, 2023 10 a.m. Potential KDE Matinee (reduced)
  1:15 p.m. "Somewhere" – Production Meeting
  2 p.m. Fall 2023 Show #1 Design Meeting #4
  7:30 p.m. Opening Night of Kent Dance Ensemble 
Fri., March 31, 2023   SPRING BREAK – NO MEETINGS  

April 2023 

Fri., Apr. 7, 2023 1:15 p.m. "Somewhere" – Production Meeting
  2 p.m. Fall 2023 Show #1 Design Meeting #5 Finals
  3:30 p.m. THDN FAC
Tue., Apr. 11, 2023 TBD Discover Theatre and Dance Day
Fri., Apr. 14, 2023 9 a.m. Fall 2023 Show #2 – Design Meeting #1
  TBD "Somewhere" Tech
Fri., Apr. 21, 2023 1:15 p.m. 24/25 Season Selection Meeting #1
  2 p.m. Fall 2023 Show #2 – Design Meeting #2 
  7:30 p.m. Opening Night of "Somewhere"
Fri., Apr. 28, 2023 2 p.m. THDN School Faculty & Staff Meeting – Location TBD

May 2023 

Wed., May 3, 2023 1 p.m. Fall 2023 Show #2 – Design Meeting #3
Thur., May 4, 2023 7:30 p.m. Hold for Omega Drag Show (tentative)
Fri., May 5, 2023 5:30 p.m. APO & School Awards Banquet – Location TBD
Sat., May 6, 2023 7:30 p.m. BFA/SDF Video Screening – E. Turner Stump Theatre   

 

Important Emergency Phone Numbers for Theatre and Dance

Below are important emergency phone numbers for School of Theatre and Dance students.

In the event of an emergency in which you need police, fire or medical help, call 911.

Office Phone Number
СƬƵ Police (non-emergency) 330-672-3070
Campus Escort Service 330-672-7004
School of Theatre and Dance Main Office 330-672-2082
Dance Division Office 330-672-2069
СƬƵ Health Center 330-672-2322
Women's Clinic Appointments 220-672-8264
Physical Therapy Appointments 330-672-2098
Immunizations 330-672-8263
Counseling and Psychological Services 330-672-2487
24 Hour Nurse Line 330-672-2326
Performing Arts Box Office 330-672-2787

 

Volunteer Form

If you are working an event as a volunteer, СƬƵ's policy register requires you to complete a Volunteer Assignment Form.

Access Volunteer Assignment Form

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Anti-Racism

Community, Anti-Racism and Equity Committee

Mission

The Community, Anti-Racism and Equity (CARE) committee is a permanent standing committee of the School of Theatre and Dance. The mission of CARE is to promote and advocate for equity and belonging through the promotion, development and implementation of anti-racist policies, practices and ideas in the School of Theatre and Dance, on the Kent Campus, on our Regional Campuses and in the city of Kent. In this effort, the committee and the School of Theatre and Dance will collaborate with the Office of Admissions; the University Diversity Action Council; the Division of People, Culture and Belonging; SOTD; and the College of the Arts.

Vision

By 2025, to establish a climate of equity and inclusion/belonging within the School of Theatre and Dance; develop and implement anti-racist policies, practices and systems; and recommend and implement strategies for continued improvement. The CARE committee’s activities support the following СƬƵ stated priorities and initiatives: (1) Students First (2) A Distinctive СƬƵ (3) Global Competitiveness (4) Regional Impact and (5) Organizational Stewardship.

СƬƵ the Community, Anti-Racism, and Equity Committee

A lack of diversity, equity and inclusion/belonging continue to be a concern in SOTD. The committee uses the term diversity broadly and believes that adopting ideologies of intentional anti-racism, inclusion/belonging and equity enhances the cultural, social and intellectual experiences and achievements of the KSU community. To this end, the committee will create and enact initiatives that support anti-racism, equity, diversity and inclusion/belonging throughout SOTD, COTA and the greater community. The committee seeks to: (1) improve the climate for current and prospective students, faculty and staff from BIPOC and underrepresented groups (2) diversify SOTD curriculum and creative programming and (3) recruit more undergraduate and graduate students, faculty and staff from BIPOC and underrepresented groups. The committee is comprised of elected, volunteering and selected students, staff and faculty from SOTD, KSU and the city of Kent.

Monthly meetings will be held during the academic year and are open to all community members. In addition, the committee will host school events and workshops.

Responsibilities

The CARE Committee will:
  • Ensure that information about the committee is included on SOTD website and in the School’s handbook.
  • Solicit, discuss, and respond to recommendations from student organizations representing BIPOC and underrepresented groups.
  • Suggest, promote, and implement strategies to improve equity per KSU diversity policies.
  • Work with the School on the recruitment and retention of BIPOC other marginalized populations.
  • Review policies and procedures within the School to ensure equal opportunity for all students, faculty and staff, and make recommendations to improve policies and procedures when necessary.
  • Encourage the incorporation of diverse and diversity instruction throughout School curricula.
  • Analyze and disseminate yearly data on the representation of students, faculty, and staff from BIPOC and underrepresented groups within the School.
  • Encourage establishment of a climate of inclusion within the School and recommend strategies for improvement.
  • Determine and implement strategies to educate the entire School community on diversity, equity, inclusion/belonging and anti-racism. In this effort, outside experts may be invited to campus to share academic research and potential remedies with SOTD, the College and the University.
  • Distribute information and educational resources from the Student Multicultural Center, the LGBTQIA+ center and the Women’s Center, via the School and College websites.
  • Contribute to the recruitment of faculty from BIPOC and underrepresented groups by providing them with resources on equity, cultural literacy, the history of BIPOC and underrepresented group representation, inclusion and experience in the school, and by publicly voicing our commitment to support BIPOC and faculty from underrepresented groups.
  • Name white supremacy when and where it presents itself.
  • Hold the School accountable to its commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion/belonging and anti-racism.
  • Establish policies that protect BIPOC and other underrepresented students, faculty, and staff from retaliation, intimidation and denial of access to resources and opportunities. Especially as a result of opposing racism or established power structures/dynamics or speaking out on issues of diversity, equity, inclusion/belonging, racism and power in the School.
  • Work with DEI, Human Resources, the School and the College to address complaints; biases; exclusionary practices, policies and systems; and breaches of school, college and university policies on diversity, equity, inclusion and anti-racism.
Functions
  1. Promote a diverse and inclusive faculty and staff:
    1. Identify and implement strategies to increase the diversity of the faculty.
    2. Identify and implement strategies to increase the diversity of the staff.
    3. Ensure the inclusion of diverse candidates in all faculty searches and adjunct faculty and staff hires.
    4. Monitor efforts to diversify the faculty and staff, including recruitment, hiring, retention and promotion.
    5. Report annually to the Director and the Dean of the College of the Arts regarding the diversity of the faculty.
       
  2. Promote equitable distribution of faculty and staff workload, salary, and access to resources, and report annually to the Director and Dean on the School’s progress in these areas.
  3. Promote a diverse and inclusive undergraduate and graduate student body
    1. Identify and implement strategies to increase the diversity of the student body.
    2. Monitor efforts to diversify the student body, including admission, enrollment, retention and graduation.
    3. Report annually to the Director and the Dean regarding the diversity of the undergraduate and graduate student body.
       
  4. Systemically explore and, as necessary, propose SOTD policies and practices that effectively meet the learning needs of diverse students.
  5. Strategically intervene when BIPOC students are on academic probation.
  6. Develop and implement professional development activities that actively engage faculty and students in research and teaching practices that address issues of diversity, inclusion/belonging, equity and anti-racism.
  7. Systemically explore and, as necessary, propose policy that promotes the positive well-being of SOTD students, faculty and staff.
  8. Ensure that faculty of color engaged in the labor of serving on diversity and equity committees, disproportionately mentoring students of color, and performing research while teaching, receive a letter of support for their file from the Director and the Dean, and monetary compensation for work on this committee.

Membership

Each Division/Area shall elect a member to a two-year term on the CARE committee. The newly elected and selected members will be reported to the School at the beginning of each fall semester. Elected members will appoint a chair or co-chairs for that academic year. In addition, the CARE Committee membership will include a graduate student, an undergraduate student, the president or highest ranking executive available from all student organizations within the school that represent underrepresented communities [i.e., Black Theatre Association (BTA) and Latinx in Theatre (LiT)], and two Staff members elected by the committee. The co-chairs will report to the Director and the Dean. The School Director, Dean, staff from DEI and the Division of People, Culture and Belonging  may be invited to meetings if concerns about overt discriminatory practices need to be addressed.

Committee Members

Fabio Polanco

Tom Humes

Amy Fritsche

Catherine Meredith

Yuko Kurahashi

Terri Kent

Marti Coles

Jaye Jackson

Kirstin Henry

Tetta Askeland

Eric S. Kildow

 

Diversity Statement

The College of the Arts is a community that supports and encourages creativity; in that, we welcome all students to express themselves fully. We believe that diversity is critically important because we grow and become inspired by varied perspectives. The College of the Arts is an advocate for Black and Indigenous students, students of color, LGBTQ+ students, first-generation students, students with differing abilities, students from all economic backgrounds, international students, as well as students of all ethnicities, religions, and cultures. It is our goal to provide a welcoming space where every student can perform to their full potential to transform the lives of themselves and others through their work at individual, community, and global levels.

 

Comunicado de Diversidad de la Facultad de Artes

La Facultad de Artes es una comunidad que apoya y fomenta la creatividad; en el sentido en que todos los estudiantes son bienvenidos a que se expresen abiertamente. Creemos que la diversidad es importante por que crecemos y nos inspiramos gracias a la variedad de perspectivas que cada uno brinda. La Facultad de Artes aboga por estudiantes negros e indígenas, estudiantes de color, estudiantes LGBTQ+, estudiantes de primera generación, estudiantes con diferentes habilidades, estudiantes de todas procedencias económicas, estudiantes internacionales al igual que estudiantes de todas etnias, religiones, y culturas. Es nuestra meta proveer un espacio incluyente en donde cada estudiante pueda dar todo de su potencial para transformar sus vidas y las de los demás a través de su trabajo a nivel individual, comunitario y global.

Background and Context

CARE has identified three dimensions in which to concentrate its efforts in diversity:

I. Culture and Climate

II. Academic Curriculum & Creative Programming

III. Recruitment and Retention

These dimensions align with the standards set forth by СƬƵ’s Strategic Roadmap, Mission and Core Values; СƬƵ’s priorities and University-Level Initiatives; and the СƬƵ Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Action Plan. CARE’s Diversity Plan identifies students, faculty, and staff within the School who fall within historically underrepresented and underserved groups. Additionally, the Plan identifies students who represent diversity in a variety of ways, including but not limited to race, culture, national origin, ethnicity, religion, beliefs, social class, socioeconomic status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, physical or mental ability, age, body size/type/shape, marital status, parental status, and military and veteran status in accordance with the broad definition of the term recognized by СƬƵ Student Accessibility Services and the СƬƵ Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.

CARE Diversity Plan

CARE has developed goals that support each of the three dimensions. Each goal should align with the university’s mission laid out in the Strategic Roadmap for the university and DEI are listed below, along with the expected outcomes, implementation initiatives and measurement metrics for each goal. Results of the metrics from each of the dimensions will be tabulated and analyzed in an annual report to the School of Theatre and Dance faculty. This dimension focuses on the School of Theatre and Dance environment with its prevailing attitudes, standards and/or environmental conditions – with respect to various groups within the university community.

Community, Anti-Racism, and Equity Resource Repository

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In an effort to help give tools and further recommended reading to our faculty members, part time and adjunct faculty, graduate assistants and staff members, the School of Theatre and Dance's Community, Anti-Racism, and Equity Committee has created a resource repository for ways to improve instruction and the classroom dynamic. 

Navigating and Accessing the Resource Repository

How Information Is Organized

Articles and resources are grouped together based on subject or theme. The Repository is an ever-evolving work in progress and titles will be be continuously added.

Each article and resource is numbered. This number can be found in the spreadsheet linked in the section below and is helpful if you wish to access the PDF version of an article or resource.

Accessing Articles and Resources online

All articles in the Repository can be accessed by an online link. The spreadsheet linked in the button below contains information on the title of the article or resource, its theme, and a direct link to the material.

Accessing PDF Versions of Articles and Resources

If you prefer to access a PDF version of the Repository's articles and resources, please visit Google Drive folder linked in the button below. All entries are numbered for ease of finding what you are looking for.

Reminder: Numbers can be found in the CARE Resource Repository Spreadsheet linked above.

Help Us Expand the Repository

Within this form, you may submit up to 5 entries to be reviewed and added to the repository.  Please note that any articles or links submitted should address instruction, theatre, or dance to create and encourage more diverse viewpoints, reduce harm, and incorporate best practices for now.

 

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Teaching Resource Guide

To access the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion  Teaching Resource Guide, please follow the link below.

 

 

Student Productions & Black Box Series

For Dance Students

Dance Student Outside Activity Permission Form

Students in the B.F.A. in Dance Performance and B.A. in Dance Studies must seek permission to participate in productions and activities outside of the School of Theatre and Dance.  Junior and senior dance majors must also submit requests to utilize professional days.
 
Before accepting any production assignment or ongoing activity outside of the School of Theatre and Dance, the following form must be submitted to and approved by the Dance Division. In addition, students requesting professional days must also clear dates with their respective instructors.  Professional days, if approved, allow dance majors to miss Dance Division classes without penalty. 
 
Professional days comprise activities directly related to the major’s pursuit of professional development and future employment outside of the School of Theatre and Dance.  These activities include auditions, interviews, conferences, master classes, and so forth.
 
If you have questions regarding the permission form and approval process, please contact Dance Division Coordinator Barbara Allegra Verlezza at bverlez1@kent.edu or 330-672-0125.

For Design, Technology, and Production Students

Design Technology Production Assignments

The Design Technology and Production area maintains a spreadsheet with production assignments for each semester. Students, faculty, and staff can access the document to see updated information about assignments for this semester.

Revised Requirements for the BFA Theatre Design Technology and Production Program

1. The BFA Design Technology & Production program requires students to demonstrate potential in all areas of design technology and production through assessment measures beyond academic evaluations. The faculty has the right to dismiss from the program a student who fails to demonstrate potential. 

2. BFA Design Technology & Production candidates must comply with the university attendance policy 3-01.2 (effective Jan. 13, 2014).

3. BFA Design Technology & Production candidates are required to involve at least one signification assignment per semester approved by Design Technology & Production faculty and staff.

4. BFA Design Technology & Production candidates are expected to follow the GPS roadmap for the BFA Design Technology & Production Program unless exceptions are made by either the College or Faculty advisor.

5. If a BFA Design Technology & Production candidate fails a required Design Technology & Production core class, the candidate will automatically be placed on program probation.

6. BFA Design Technology & Production candidates are expected to matriculate in the BFA program by completing program requirements and Kent Core requirements. Failure of any course requires candidates to repeat courses and may interfere with program matriculation, which may result in program probation.

7. BFA Design Technology & Production candidates must successfully complete all course work as determined by the course instructors and as outlined by the course syllabi and maintain a GPA of 2.5 in their major.

8. BFA Design Technology & Production candidates on academic probation may not participate in School of Theatre and Dance productions. Students may be dropped from the program for failure to maintain a 2.5 GPA.

9. BFA Design Technology & Production candidates must demonstrate continuous skill development and growth in ALL areas of the BFA Design Technology,& Production Program. A student may be placed on Program Probation for failure to demonstrate continuous skill development and growth in ALL areas of the BFA Design Technology & Production Program. The members of the Design Technology & Production Faculty will provide the student with written information regarding specific areas and skills in question at the time of a student being placed on probation.

10. Upon completion of 60 semester hours, each student is required to contact the Office of Advising and Academic Services to obtain a current evaluation of progress toward completion of the student’s chosen degree program.

11. BFA Design Technology & Production candidates must participate in the annual BFA evaluation semester portfolio review/interviews meetings.

12. BFA Design Technology & Production candidates who wish to participate in job fairs at SETC, USITT, or similar conferences must share their portfolio with faculty & staff and incorporate feed back before participating in the job fair.

13. BFA Design Technology & Production candidates must demonstrate professional behavior at all times. Professional behavior is defined as behavior that supports the creative process. Any behavior that detracts from the creative process can lead to immediate probation and/or dismissal from the BFA Design Technology & Production program.

14. BFA Design Technology & Production candidates must demonstrate respect for their peers, instructors, and for themselves before, during and after classes, rehearsals, and performances.

15. Should a BFA Design Technology & Production candidate be placed on program probation the Design & Production Faculty will provide a written list of conditions, and an explanation of what constitutes meeting said conditions, as well as a time frame for addressing conditions. Failure to meet conditions in the time frame specified could lead to dismissal from the BFA Design Technology & Production Program.

16. If a BFA Design Technology & Production Candidate is unable to attend class, due to illness then the candidate will be unable to attend shop work calls, rehearsal, tech, or performances. Failure to attend work calls, rehearsals, tech or performances may lead to dismissal from a production.

17. In order to maintain a safe and professional working environment, BFA Design Technology & Production candidates are expected to attend classes, shop work, rehearsals, and performances with a clear, sober and focused mind and body. Students suspected to be under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs shall be reported to the Student Conduct Board as well as the Kent City Police Department. They are also subject to immediate program probation or dismissal from the program.

18. Failure to meet any requirement set forth in this document will lead to program probation, and/or program dismissal.

19. In extreme circumstances, student are subject to dismissal from the BFA Design Technology & Production program without being placed on program probation.

20. BFA Design Technology & Production students have to . 

Revised Requirements for the MFA Design, Technology, and Production Program
  1. Since the MFA Design & Technology program requires students to demonstrate his/her profession in each area of Design and Technology through assessment measures beyond academic evaluations, the Design, Technology & Production Faculty of the School of Theatre and Dance has the right to dismiss from the program a student who fails to demonstrate his/her profession to become a competent designer and technologist. This condition will be applied to those who meet academic requirements.
  2. MFA Design & Technology candidates must comply with the university attendance policy 3-01.2 (effective Jan. 13, 2018).
  3. MFA Design & Technology candidates are required to involve at least two significant assignments per semester approved by Design Technology & Production faculty and staff.
  4. MFA Design & Technology candidates are expected to follow the plan of study made by either the area faculty advisor.
  5. Only the third year MFA Design & Technology students are allowed to take outside of school classes. It must be proved by the area faculty advisor.
  6. If a MFA Design & Technology candidate earns a A grade of C or lower in a required MFA Design & Technology class, the candidate will automatically be placed on program probation.
  7. MFA Design & Technology candidates are expected to matriculate in the MFA program by completing program requirements.  Failure of any course requires candidates to repeat courses and may interfere with program matriculation, which may result in program probation.
  8. MFA Design & Technology candidates must successfully complete all course work as determined by the course instructors and as outlined by the course syllabi and maintain a GPA of 3.0 in their major.
  9. MFA Design & Technology candidates must demonstrate continuous skill development and growth in ALL areas of the MFA Design & Technology Program. A student may be placed on Program Probation for failure to demonstrate continuous skill development and growth in ALL including, but not limited to academic, production, and assistantship areas of the MFA Design & Technology. The members of the Design Technology & Production Faculty will provide the student with written information regarding specific areas and skills in question at the time of a student being placed on probation.
  10. MFA Design & Technology candidates must participate in the semester review.
  11. MFA Design & Technology candidates who wish to participate in job fairs at SETC, USITT, or similar conferences must share their portfolio with faculty & staff and incorporate feedback before participating in the job fair.
  12. MFA Design & Technology candidates must demonstrate professional behavior at all times.  Professional behavior is defined as behavior that supports the creative process.  Any behavior that detracts from the creative process can lead to immediate probation and/or dismissal from the MFA Design & Technology program.
  13. MFA Design & Technology candidates must demonstrate respect for their peers, instructors, and for themselves before, during and after classes, rehearsals, and performances.
  14. Should a MFA Design & Technology candidate be placed on program probation the Design & Production Faculty will provide a written list of conditions, and an explanation of what constitutes meeting said conditions, as well as a time frame for addressing conditions.  Failure to meet conditions in the time frame specified could lead to dismissal from the MFA Design & Technology Program.
  15. If a MFA Design & Technology Candidate is unable to attend class, due to illness then the candidate will be unable to attend shop work calls, rehearsal, tech, or performances.  Failure to attend work calls, rehearsals, tech or performances may lead to dismissal from a production.
  16. In order to maintain a safe and professional working environment, MFA Design & Technology candidates are expected to attend classes, shop work, rehearsals, and performances with a clear, sober and focused mind and body.  Students suspected to be under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs shall be reported to the Student Conduct Board as well as the Kent City Police Department.  They are also subject to immediate program probation or dismissal from the program. 
  17. Failure to meet any requirement set forth in this document will lead to program probation, and/or program dismissal.
  18. In Students are subject to dismissal from the MFA Design & Technology program without being placed on program probation. 
  19. Students are required to remain in residence for the three years to complete the program (excluding, if appropriate, the internship).
  20. The topic of each M.F.A. candidate’s culminating project may be proposed by the candidate and based on faculty feedback from yearly portfolio and academic assessments. The culminating project must be approved by the faculty advisor. The student will register for THEA 61310 for the student’s project assignment. The process is then documented in a format appropriate for the project and presented to the faculty advisor.
  21. MFA Design & Technology students have to review .

Residency Requirement

  • Students are required to remain in residence for the three years to complete the program (excluding, if appropriate, the internship).
  • At a minimum, design/technology students must complete at least one significant production assignment and work on one other production each semester.
  • Students may not undertake any work outside the School of Theatre and Dance without petitioning the appropriate area faculty and receiving written permission prior to interviewing.

Graduation Requirements

  • The Design/Technology concentrations are an intensive, three-year, professional training program requiring the completion of 60 hours of graduate credit depending on the area of concentration.
  • The culminating project requirements for the Design and Technology concentrations include: documentation, portfolio presentation and an exit interview. Documentation consists of a design analysis, process journal, relevant research and other supporting materials (photos, links to the candidate’s website, etc). The scope of work may include but not necessarily be limited to, evidence of research, drawing and drafting, rendering and associated digital image, video or audio files, which will be presented at an exit interview.
  • The topic of each M.F.A. candidate’s culminating project may be proposed by the candidate and based on faculty feedback from yearly portfolio and academic assessments. The culminating project must be approved by the faculty advisor. The student will register for THEA 61310 for the student’s project assignment. The process is then documented in a format appropriate for the project and presented to the faculty advisor.
BFA Design, Technology, and Production Portfolio/Yearly Review Requirements

Goal of Portfolio

  1. Showcase your class and production work from the past year to show the growth and development as a theatre artist.  As well as beginning to curate your portfolio, this is a time for you to show the faculty the portfolio you intend to use for SETC, USITT, or other job interviews.
  2. This process is a prerequisite for continuing in the program. 
  3. The composition of a review includes a minimum of two advisor members that should include the student’s major academic faculty advisor and supervisors.  It is appropriate for other faculty members to be part of the review if they have worked directly with the student on a production or class. 

Required Materials

  • All class work—everything from sketches, research, revisions, and final projects.
  • Production work—if you designed or built a special project, include process and final photos.
  • Final Updated Production Book- Please talk with your advisor for details.
     
    • Examples:
      • Costume Designer: Bible 
      • Master Electrician: ME Book
      • Lighting Designer: Lighting Book 
      • Stage Management: Prompt Book
         
  • Updated Portfolios 
  • Bring at least 4 copies of your updated resume and updated cover letter. 
  • Evaluation letters from Summer Internship job.

 

Format 

  • Hard copy and Digital

  • Display the process for all projects

  • Each student will have 15 minutes to present their portfolio, there will be 10 minutes of feedback from the faculty and staff.

  • Everything should look cohesive

  • Hardcopy Portfolio could include the following items: 

Lighting Area

  • Lighting book that includes all of production information such as scenery, costume, final production photos, research of productions, drafting, paper work, budget list, special rental list, rehearsal log, focus plan and renderings if you have one.
  • Resumes 
  • Cover letter
  • Other classwork 

Sound Area

  • Drafting, Routing Paperwork, Shop Orders
  • Cue sheets, Design Concepts, Sample Cues (audio)
  • Resumes 
  • Cover letter
  • Other classwork

Costume Area

  • Renderings
  • Construction drawings, process photos, and finished piece photos of pieces you built
  • Paperwork (piece lists, garment breakdowns, check-in sheets)
  • Resumes 
  • Cover letter
  • Other classwork

Scenery, Props, and Painting Area

  • Drafting package, if you designed or TD’ed show
  • Paint elevations and photos of process and finished production pieces
  • Prop drawings and photos of process and finished pieces
  • Construction drawings, process photos, and finished piece photos of scenic pieces you built.
  • Resumes 
  • Cover letter
  • Other classwork 

Other Information and Requirements 

  • There will be a sign-up sheet for each area’s portfolio review.  
  • Think of this as a job interview:  dress appropriately; present your stuff with pride, and professional artistic aesthetic.
  • BFA DT & P Program candidates are required to work for all theatre division main stage productions and assigned by DT & P Faculty. 
  • A student may be placed on Program Probation for failure to demonstrate continuous skill development and growth in ALL areas of the BFA DT & P Program. 
  • The members of the DT & P Faculty will provide the student with written information regarding specific areas and skills in question at the time of a student being placed on probation.
  • Students are subject to dismissal from the BFA DT & P Program without being placed on program probation. 
  • BFA DT & P program candidates are expected to follow the GPS roadmap for the BFA DT & P Program unless exceptions are made by either the College or School advisor.
  • If a BFA DT & P Program candidate fails a required DT & P theatre core class, the candidate will automatically be placed on program probation.
  • BFA DT & P Program candidates are expected to matriculate in the BFA program by completing program requirements and Kent Core requirements.  Failure of any course requires candidates to repeat courses and may interfere with program matriculation, which may result in program probation.
  • BFA DT & P Program candidates must successfully complete all course work as determined by the course instructors and as outlined by the course syllabi and maintain a GPA of 2.5 in their major.
  • BFA DT & P Program candidates on academic probation may not participate in School of Theatre and Dance productions. Students may be dropped from the program for failure to maintain a 2.0 GPA.
  • Juniors and Seniors should apply for at least 3 summer jobs by the end of Fall semester. 

TIPS FOR PREPARING YOUR PORTFOLIO (from URTA)

  • Be selective in preparing your presentation. Portfolios should include the best examples of your work and design capabilities, as well as some of your process. 
    • Job Interviewers want to see your skills and abilities in design more than they want to see how well you can set up a nice portfolio. They look for quality, not quantity.
  • The portfolio should be organized and neat, but please no scrap booking! Portfolio materials should be clean and presented to their best advantage e.g., matted, mounted, etc. when appropriate
  • Your work should speak for itself, but be prepared to answer questions about your process and to explain your design ideas. If asked about a production, assume that the person is familiar with the plots of most classic and current drama. Outline the plot if you have designed an obscure or new play, but only explain as much as is necessary to understand your design idea and/or choices.
  • Identify work as a class project or realized production with play title, producer (organization or class), and date.
  • Reflect your area of future concentration and interest in the portfolio you present. If you have a produced design, show examples of your process drawings and the development of the project to the finished product on-stage. Document the evolution of a complex technical project through a series of photographs.
  • Use photos with accurate color development. Select photos that are not repetitive and show your work clearly. At least one full stage shot of a setting and full figure shots of characters in costume are expected.
  • It is a good idea to have examples of non-theater work reflecting your taste and abilities e.g., graphic arts projects; life drawings; or examples of photography. It is not necessary to bring three- dimensional objects, but a well-built set model, costume, property or example of related craft work is acceptable. Photos of three-dimensional work may also be included. 
MFA Design, Technology and Production Review Guidelines

General Notes 

  • Design, Technology, and Production reviews are conducted for all M.F.A. Design, Technology, and Production graduate students. This process is a prerequisite for continuing in the program. 
  • These reviews are held at the end of each semester during the final exam period. 
  • This is a professional review. Please wear appropriate clothes. 

Goal of Review 

  • To evaluate your growth and development as a theatre artist from your classwork and production work. 

Who will be reviewing 

  • A review panel consists of at least two advisors, including the student’s faculty advisor in their concentration and assistantship-related advisor. It is appropriate for other faculty members to be part of the review if they have worked directly with the student on a production or in class. 

Probation 

  • A student may be placed on Program Probation for failure to demonstrate continuous skill development and growth in ALL areas of the M.F.A. Design, Technology, and Production program. 
  • The Design, Technology, and Production faculty members will provide the student with written comments on specific areas and skills to be improved when a student is placed on probation. 

Required materials

  • Classwork – Ex. Rendering and Drafting. 
  • Updated Resumes and CV – CV is required only for the 2nd year and 3rd year students. 
  • Updated production book – Ex. lighting book, costume bible and scenery package. 
  • Updated portfolio – Digital and hard copies of portfolios are required for 2nd- and 3rd-year students. 
  • Evaluation letters from summer internship jobs. 
Design, Technology and Production Outside Activity Permission Form

Students in the M.F.A. in Design, Technology and Production must seek permission to participate in productions and activities outside of the School of Theatre and Dance. 

Before accepting any production assignment or ongoing activity outside of the School of Theatre and Dance, the following form must be submitted to and approved. In addition, students requesting professional days must also clear dates with their respective instructors.  Professional days, if approved, allow students to miss classes without penalty. 

Professional days comprise activities directly related to the major’s pursuit of professional development and future employment outside of the School of Theatre and Dance. These activities include auditions, interviews, conferences, master classes, and so forth.

If you have questions regarding the permission form and approval process, please contact Jakyung Seo at jseo1@kent.edu or Dr. Yuko Kurahashi at ykurahas@kent.edu.

 

For Theatre Performance Students

Musical Theatre Outside Permission Form

Students in the B.F.A. Musical Theatre program must seek permission to participate in productions outside the Theatre department.

Before auditioning for or accepting any production work outside the Theatre department, the following form must be submitted to and approved by the Performance Area.  Forms fully completed and submitted by noon on Thursday will be deliberated on the succeeding Friday that the university is in session. (Effective October 1, 2018)

If you have questions regarding the permission form and approval process, please contact Amy Fritsche at afritsch@kent.edu or 330-672-0112.

Revised Requirements for the BFA Musical Theatre Program

Effective October 1, 2018

1. Since the BFA Musical Theatre Program requires students to demonstrate potential in all areas of musical theatre through assessment measures beyond academic evaluations, The Acting Faculty of the School of Theatre and Dance has the right to dismiss from the program a student who fails to demonstrate potential to become a competent performer. This condition will be applied to those who meet academic requirements.

2.  BFA Musical Theatre candidates must comply with the university attendance policy 3-01.2 (effective Jan. 13, 2014). 

3. BFA Musical Theatre candidates are required to audition for all theatre division main stage productions and accept roles if cast. Exemptions to the audition requirement may be granted under certain circumstances. Circumstances include but are not limited to: religious beliefs, moral objection, psychological triggers with the play, and physical concerns. In order to be exempted from the audition requirement, students must submit a written petition to the performance faculty prior to the beginning of the casting process for the production in question. The performance faculty will make a good faith effort to deliberate and come to a decision on the petition at the first performance area meeting after the receipt of the petition. At no point will a student be asked to disclose sensitive personal information.

4.  BFA Musical Theatre candidates are expected to follow the GPS roadmap for the BFA Musical Theatre Program unless exceptions are made by either the College or School advisor.

5.  If a BFA Musical Theatre candidate fails a required musical theatre core class, the candidate will automatically be placed on program probation.

6. BFA Musical Theatre candidates are expected to matriculate in the BFA program by completing program requirements and Kent Core requirements.  Failure of any course requires candidates to repeat courses and may interfere with program matriculation, which may result in program probation.

7.  BFA Musical Theatre candidates must successfully complete all course work as determined by the course instructors and as outlined by the course syllabi and maintain a GPA of 2.5 in their major. Students may be dismissed from the program for failure to maintain a 2.5 GPA in their major.

8. BFA Musical Theatre candidates on academic and/or programmatic probation may not participate in School of Theatre and Dance productions or outside productions.

9. BFA Musical Theatre candidates must demonstrate continuous skill development and growth in ALL areas of the BFA Musical Theatre Program.  A student may be placed on program probation for failure to demonstrate continuous skill development and growth in ALL areas of the BFA Musical Theatre Program. The members of the Acting Faculty will provide the student with written information regarding specific areas and skills in question at the time of a student being placed on probation.

10. A freshman BFA Musical Theatre student may only participate in one (1) production per semester. 

11. All BFA Musical Theatre candidates must petition the acting faculty for permission before auditioning for any production outside the Theatre Division of the KSU School of Theatre and Dance.

12. Upon completion of 60 semester hours, each student is required to contact the Office of Advising and Academic Services to obtain a current evaluation of progress toward completion of the student’s chosen degree program.

13.  BFA Musical Theatre candidates must participate in the annual School of Theatre and Dance, СƬƵ, screening auditions.

14.  BFA Musical Theatre candidates who qualify for unified auditions, through the aforementioned screening auditions, must participate in at least 1 of the approved auditions each year.

15.  BFA Musical Theatre candidates must participate in the annual BFA evaluation interviews/meetings.

16.  BFA Musical Theatre candidates must demonstrate professional behavior at all times.  Professional behavior is defined as behavior that supports the creative process.  Any behavior that detracts from the creative process can lead to immediate probation and/or dismissal from the BFA Musical Theatre program.

17.  BFA Musical Theatre candidates must demonstrate respect for their peers, instructors, and for themselves before, during and after classes, rehearsals, and performances.

18.  BFA Musical Theatre candidates MUST secure, via the audition process, at least one role of significance in order to graduate.  The role of significance must be approved by the Acting Faculty.

19.  Should a BFA Musical Theatre candidate be placed on program probation the Acting Faculty will provide a written list of conditions, and an explanation of what constitutes meeting said conditions, as well as a time frame for addressing said conditions.  Failure to meet conditions in the time frame specified could lead to dismissal from the BFA Musical Theatre Program.

20. If a BFA Musical Theatre candidate is unable to attend class due to illness, then the candidate will be unable to attend rehearsal.  Failure to attend rehearsals may lead to dismissal from a production. 

21.  In order to maintain a safe and professional working environment, BFA Musical Theatre candidates are expected to attend classes, rehearsals, and performances with a clear, sober and focused mind and body.  Students suspected to be under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs are subject to immediate program probation or dismissal from the program and shall be reported to the Student Conduct Board as well as the Kent City Police Department. They are also subject to immediate program probation or dismissal from the program.

22.  Failure to meet any requirement set forth in this document will lead to program probation, and/or program dismissal.

23. In extreme circumstances, a BFA Musical Theatre candidate may be dismissed from the program without probation.

24. Any request, petition, or other action for consideration by the acting faculty must be presented at least one week prior to the event or deadline. 

For Faculty and Graduate Assistants

Guest Artist Submission Form

Guidelines and Process for Guest Artists

In the commitment to increase diversity and dismantle racist practices, supported  Guest Artists must be Black, LatinX or People of color to enhances the cultural, social, and intellectual experiences of the community. All costs (travel, lodging, honorariums, etc.) and activities (class visits, Q & A’s, demonstrations, or performances) must be discussed and approved by Director  before any announcements may be shared with students/ public.

Director will keep Guest Artist Committee appraised as to available funds.

Guidelines for guest artist Visits

There are two primary ways that guest artists are secured:

  • A faculty, student or staff member proposes a guest to their areas (either for specific classes or to benefit their area in general) and extends invitations to the guest and shepherds the proposal process through their area, and also serves as host for the guest’s visit.
  • A guest (often an alum) contacts faculty and offers to teach or speak while visiting Kent and will pay their own expenses, expecting no honorarium. It necessary to file a proposal form, but we do want to keep track of visitors. The area may still decide to offer some sort of compensation, but within guidelines below.

* Special situations regarding alumni-initiated visits: Alumni often drop in for visits and enjoy participating in classes on an informal basis. These visits are appreciated but not financially supported unless arrangements are made in advance through the guest artist process through each Area (D/T, Performance, DAN).

Duties

Persons proposing a guest artist will be expected to serve as the guest’s ”Host” or liaison during the visit, as well as primary promoter, cheerleader, and translator, if needed.

Guests with School-wide Impact

Areas who pursue guest artist initiatives that have a school-wide impact should also be considered as guests for specific school/ College supported programs, i.e. Schroth series, Roe Green Guest Director series, Armstrong Family series, Ferris Dance series.

Deadlines:

  • Proposals should be approved by the Guest Artist Committee two weeks prior to the anticipated visit.
  • Decision of the Guest Artist committee is determined and final outcome shared by School Director.
  • Proposals approved by the areas or Leadership Team are submitted to the coordinator of theatre operations for payment and travel arrangements as soon as they are approved (or denied).

Guidelines for determining average costs for faculty/area-initiated visits*:

  • 50 minutes: $50.00
  • 75 minutes: $75.00
  • 110 minutes: $110.00
  • 180 minutes: $180.00
  • 240 minutes: $375.00
     
  • Will lodging be offered?
  • Will travel reimbursement be offered or payment of a bus ticket? Use university mileage rates, etc.
  • Will any meals be offered? Please stay within per diem guidelines and College policies.
  • Will there be any supply costs for the session

Contract and Checklist

Handbooks and Other Guidelines

Undergraduate and Graduate Student Guidelines

School of Theatre and Dance Student Handbook

The School of Theatre and Dance has formulated undergraduate and graduate student guidelines to help students excel during their time at СƬƵ. The guidelines include important information and policies for all School of Theatre and Dance students as well as program-specific information.

 

Stage Management Handbook

 

Student Production Handbook

 

Graduate Student Guidelines

 

MFA Design Technology and Production Semester Review Guidelines

 

MFA Design Technology and Production Culminating Project Syllabus

 

Faculty and Graduate Assistant Handbooks and Guidelines

Faculty and Staff Handbook

 

Art of Theatre Guidelines

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