Check out the latest Episode of the State of Field Podcast! 

Episode 7:  Demystifying Theater for Young Audiences 

Meriah's Biography

Episode #6:  Part 1- Inspiring Students: The Impact of ADTY on Classroom Practice with Lauren Neuwirth

In this first episode of our two-part series featuring Lauren Neuwirth, a third-year ADTY graduate student and middle school drama teacher, we explore Lauren's journey from undergraduate studies in Vocal Music Education to pursuing an MFA in Applied Drama and Theater for the Young at Eastern Michigan University. As we delve into Lauren's experiences in the ADTY program, she shares how the coursework and opportunities have influenced and supported her teaching practice in Michigan Public Schools, offering specific examples of classroom applications. Lauren also discusses how her experiences as an actress and director complement her work as a drama teacher. Highlighting her commitment to promoting creative agency among her students and the joy of teaching middle schoolers, Lauren offers a glimpse into her inspiring journey and aspirations for the future of theater education.

Lauren's Bio

Lauren Neuwirth is a teaching artist based in Detroit, Michigan. Lauren holds a bachelor's degree in Vocal Music Education from Wayne State University, and is currently pursuing an MFA in Theater Arts and Applied Drama and Theater for the Young from Eastern Michigan University. She is currently a 6th year teacher in the Bloomfield Hills School District, where she has enjoyed teaching Drama, Musical Theatre, and Theatre Technology for South Hills Middle School. Prior to Bloomfield Hills, Neuwirth spent a year teaching Choir and Drama at Center Line High School and Wolfe Middle School in Center Line, Michigan. She has been acting for over 20 years and has been music directing and directing for the last 14 years. Some of her favorite roles include Katherine Blake in Freaky Friday, Maureen in RENT, Amy in Company, Christine in Dirty Rotten Scoundrels and Donna in Mamma Mia. Her research focuses on the treatment of female characters in musical theatre and adjacent genres. She is a two-time presenter at the American Alliance for Theatre and Education National Conference and co-hosts/produces Down Stage Left Podcast, a comedy/theater podcast.

State of Field  Podcast Episode 5: Empowering Voices - Sam Carter's Vision for Inclusive Theater

Sam's Bio

Sam Carter (She/Her/Hers) is a Michigan based Teaching Artist, Arts Manager, Accessibility Designer, Choreographer, Director, and Actor. She is a current MFA candidate at Eastern Michigan University studying Applied Drama and Theatre for the Young. Sam’s research focuses on creating theatre for, with, and about individuals with physical and neuro differences. Sam is a TimeSlips certified facilitator, and works as a Lead Instructor at Open Spot Theatre Company, Spinning Dot Theatre, and Bounce Dot Dance. Through these organizations she is able to provide equitable and accessible theatre and dance training to students of all ages and abilities. Additionally, Sam is a King-Chavez-Parks Future Faculty Fellow with intent to teach theatre at the collegiate level upon her graduation in 2024. Sam obtained her BFA in Acting from Michigan State University with minors in dance, musical theatre, and arts and cultural management. Sam is an active artist in the community, currently serving as the creator, director, choreographer, and lyricist of Eastern Michigan University Theatre for the Young Tour's sensory theatre production of Ronnie and Scales' Magnificent Tale. This new work is an immersive, multi-sensory theatre adventure designed for neurodivergent individuals and special education classrooms. To learn more about Sam's work and creative endeavors visit thesamcarter.com.

Episode 4: Shaping the Future - Perspectives on Applied Drama and Theater with Decky Alexander

In this episode of the "State of Field" podcast, host Robert Smith welcomes Jessica "Decky" Alexander, a distinguished faculty member in the ADTY program at Eastern Michigan University. Decky's extensive background includes teaching Applied Drama and Theater, serving as the program director for Engage@EMU, and founding the Limelight Theater Company. With her recent publication, "A Tale of Telling Some Truths to Power in Applied Theatre with Youth" (Routledge 2021), Decky brings a wealth of experience to the discussion. The conversation delves into the definitions of Applied Drama and Theater, the power of improvisation in youth engagement, and Decky's vision for the future of Applied Drama and Theater. Prospective students considering the ADTY program will gain valuable insights into its potential and the career options available post-graduation. This episode offers a comprehensive look at the dynamic field of Applied Drama and Theater, leaving listeners inspired and informed.

Episode #3: Bridging Cultures: An International Student's ADTY Perspective.

IIn this delightful episode of the "State of Field" podcast, YunJeong Kim, a second-year MA candidate in the ADTY program at Eastern Michigan University, takes us on a journey through her experiences as an international student, educator, and researcher. With a background in Teaching English as a Second Language and directing youth theater in Korea, YunJeong shares her serendipitous discovery of the ADTY program at EMU and the alignment of its mission with her passion for using applied drama and theater as tools for teaching English. Through insightful conversations, YunJeong reflects on her transition to American college life, the challenges and joys of balancing parenthood with graduate studies, and the invaluable support she received from her family and professional network in Korea. She also offers valuable advice for international students navigating language barriers and cultural adjustments, emphasizing the importance of seeking support and sharing experiences. 

Episode #2: New Horizons: Exploring Theater in Education with Randy Stewart

This podcast episode features Randy Stewart, a second-year graduate student in the Applied Drama and Theater for Youth program at Eastern Michigan University. Randy's background in Theater and Drama Education led him to enroll in the ADTY graduate program, where he explores his passion for Theater for Young Audiences (TYA) and playwriting. During the interview, Randy discusses his transition from being a public school teacher to a graduate student and how the ADTY program is shaping his career path and goals. He shares insights into the coursework that inspired him to delve into TYA playwriting, particularly with his one-act TYA play "Life of Difer," which explores themes of dysregulated behaviors and isolation in young people. Randy also elaborates on his final project for the ADTY program, organizing Theater in Education conferences, and discusses his aspirations for his career post-graduation. The episode highlights Randy's dedication to TYA and Theater in Education, offering valuable insights into the ADTY graduate program at EMU.