Welcome to our first annual Workshop Week! We are The Cohort Theatre Company, a collective of artists striving to produce meaningful art that can positively impact the community and the world. We started as a student organization at The Ohio State University and have since grown into a professional theatre company full of artists, creators, and thinkers from a myriad of disciplines.
In addition to facing the coronavirus pandemic, we're currently being called to action by a social movement that asks us to confront the grave injustices impacting Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC). Our Workshop Week aims to address both of these issues by offering a meaningful blend of creative challenges and difficult conversations. We believe that art can change the world, and it starts with you!
If you attend one of more of the sessions, please consider donating! 100% of proceeds from Workshop Week will go to the Black Queer & Intersectional Collective (BQIC). BQIC is a grassroots community organization in Columbus, Ohio that works towards the liberation of Black LGBTQ+ people from all walks of life through direct action, community organizing, education, and creating space to uplift their voices.
Donations can be made through our Venmo: @CohortTheatre-Company
No prior training is needed. All of our workshops have been crafted to benefit everyone from beginners to advanced learners. We have classes and performances ranging from movement, voice, mime, playwriting, filmmaking, auditioning, acting, magic, and so much more!
If you have any questions regarding the workshops, zoom, or membership, please contact Matt Greenberg or Lillian Brown.
In addition to facing the coronavirus pandemic, we're currently being called to action by a social movement that asks us to confront the grave injustices impacting Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC). Our Workshop Week aims to address both of these issues by offering a meaningful blend of creative challenges and difficult conversations. We believe that art can change the world, and it starts with you!
If you attend one of more of the sessions, please consider donating! 100% of proceeds from Workshop Week will go to the Black Queer & Intersectional Collective (BQIC). BQIC is a grassroots community organization in Columbus, Ohio that works towards the liberation of Black LGBTQ+ people from all walks of life through direct action, community organizing, education, and creating space to uplift their voices.
Donations can be made through our Venmo: @CohortTheatre-Company
No prior training is needed. All of our workshops have been crafted to benefit everyone from beginners to advanced learners. We have classes and performances ranging from movement, voice, mime, playwriting, filmmaking, auditioning, acting, magic, and so much more!
If you have any questions regarding the workshops, zoom, or membership, please contact Matt Greenberg or Lillian Brown.
Location
On Zoom
Date & Time
See schedule below
VENMO
Photo credit: Jodi Miller, courtesy of The Ohio State University Department of Theatre
Schedule
Monday
9 AM
Audiobook Workshop
taught by Lillian Brown
Have you ever wanted to learn how to get started with audiobook narration? This is the series for you! Professional audiobook narrator Lillian Brown covers everything from how to set up a home recording space to how to pick great material for your demo, editing, auditioning, booking and all the next steps! No previous experience needed. Everyone is welcome. Just bring something to record yourself with. If you have access to a USB microphone or XLR it is recommended.
10 AM
Professional Aspects, Auditions & Actors' Equity
hosted by Jacob Athyal & Matt Greenberg
Are you wondering about what to do when auditioning for an Equity theatre? Are you auditioning for musicals, plays, or both? We’ll cover how to get an audition slot, join the Union, wages, benefits of joining the Union, and the downsides. Jake Athyal and Matt Greenberg are equity actors who’ve worked in theatre houses ranging from Alaska to Hawaii, Boston to Los Angeles, and abroad! This class offers insight on being an artist in various mediums on stage to screen and how to be the best performer you can be regardless of what you think your “type” is. How can we as artists break down the “type” barriers and ensure success? This class is roundtable discussions, Q&A, and optional working sessions: so, bring a monologue or song cut if you’d like to work together to unlock it! For this workshop, you will need access to an electronic device with Zoom. Open to all ages and no previous experience needed!
11 AM
Magic with Cards
taught by Connor Graham
Have you ever wanted to learn the secrets of magic? Connor Graham has taught magic to beginners at schools, summer camps, and even a theme park! Now he’s teaching you several amazing miracles with ordinary playing cards that you can instantly perform and fool your friends! No previous experience needed. For this workshop you will need access to an electronic device, Wifi for Zoom, and a full deck of playing cards.
1 PM
Yoga for Performers
taught by Jess Hughes
Unlock your creativity, connect to your breath, and tap into your energetic body in this accessible asana and pranayama practice. Jess Hughes, who is in the process of receiving her RYT 200 yoga certification, will discuss the roots of yoga and how you can apply yogic principles to your artistic process. You will need access to an electronic device and Wifi for Zoom. A yoga mat is recommended, but a clean floor is a fine substitute!
2 PM
Viewpoints
taught by Erin Alys
Erin Alys studied Viewpoints with SITI Company and has since taught workshops at The Ohio State University. Erin’s classes will investigate Anne Bogart’s Nine Viewpoints in relation to Mary Overlie’s original Six Viewpoints. Sessions will build consecutively, so sign up for multiple or all classes if you are interested in extensive training--or take a single focused session! No previous experience is required. You will need access to an electronic device with camera capability and Wifi for Zoom.
3 PM
Let's Make a Play
taught by Kylie Logan
This Playwriting Series taught by Kylie Logan has a lot more to do with theatrical expression than traditional playwriting. We will work with creative exercises, prompts and collective creation to help you unlock your writer’s voice for the theatre. Once you’ve got an idea, we will work on finding the language to create a blueprint for it. No previous experience needed. At the end of the sessions, participants will create theatrical snippets which will be shared through a virtual reading open to friends and family, or just us. We’ll decide together!
4 PM
Shakespeare and the Thinking Breath
taught by Sean Brennan Naughton
Learn how to engage a piece of heightened text quickly and efficiently. Develop your method of turning language into clear, informed and specific acting choices in a matter of moments. Stop stressing about Shakespeare and start listening to his direction from beyond this mortal coil. Learn the tools to craft a performance straight from the page to the stage by training yourself to explore the meaning between the words. This is a three-part class running Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 4:00pm - 5:20pm.
Required: Please bring a 10-15 verse line monologue from any Shakespeare play. Email monologues to [email protected].
Required: Please bring a 10-15 verse line monologue from any Shakespeare play. Email monologues to [email protected].
Tuesday
9 AM
Vocal & Physical Warmup
taught by Lillian Brown
Get your day started right! This class by Lillian Brown will synthesize your mind and body awareness to ensure the rest of your day gets you speaking and feeling like your optimal self! No previous experience needed. For this workshop you don’t need much, just an open space, a water bottle, and clothing you feel comfortable moving around in.
1 PM
Creating Mime Illusions
taught by Connor Graham
Connor Graham has performed and taught mime at summer camps, high schools, and as a guest in college classes. He’s trained with some of the best mimes in the world, and now he’s passing it on to you! In this class, participants will learn the fundamentals of creating mime illusions and learn how the art of mime can be applied in so many ways. You will be thinking outside of the (mime) box! No previous experience needed. For this workshop you will need access to an electronic device, Wifi for Zoom, and clothing you can move in.
2 PM
Viewpoints
taught by Erin Alys
Erin Alys studied Viewpoints with SITI Company and has since taught workshops at The Ohio State University. Erin’s classes will investigate Anne Bogart’s Nine Viewpoints in relation to Mary Overlie’s original Six Viewpoints. Sessions will build consecutively, so sign up for multiple or all classes if you are interested in extensive training--or take a single focused session! No previous experience is required. You will need access to an electronic device with camera capability and Wifi for Zoom.
3 PM
Movie Making
taught by Rina Hajra
Rina Hajra is an award-winning filmmaker whose work centers on social justice stories. In this masterclass, participants will learn the ins and outs of making and producing their own films, from applying for grants to finding a crew! Rina Hajra is passionate about telling important stories, and she believes that film and theatre can deeply impact individuals, and in turn, change the world. Open to all. No previous experience needed. Participants will need access to Zoom!
4 PM
Learn Self Hypnosis
taught by Connor Graham
The truth is that ALL hypnosis is SELF hypnosis. Connor Graham has been a certified hypnotist for three years, working as an entertainer in theaters and schools, as well as a consultant, helping people overcome their everyday adversities. Now you can learn fundamental hypnotic techniques that you can implement in your daily life immediately to create the positive changes you wish to see in yourself! For this workshop you will need access to an electronic device and Wifi for Zoom.
Wednesday
9 AM
Audiobook Workshop
taught by Lillian Brown
Have you ever wanted to learn how to get started with audiobook narration? This is the series for you! Professional audiobook narrator Lillian Brown covers everything from how to set up a home recording space to how to pick great material for your demo, editing, auditioning, booking and all the next steps! No previous experience needed. Everyone is welcome. Just bring something to record yourself with. If you have access to a USB microphone or XLR it is recommended.
10 AM
Professional Aspects, Auditions, and Actors' Equity
hosted by Jake Athyal & Matt Greenberg
Are you wondering about what to do when auditioning for an Equity theatre? Are you auditioning for musicals, plays, or both? We’ll cover how to get an audition slot, join the Union, wages, benefits of joining the Union, and the downsides. Jake Athyal and Matt Greenberg are equity actors who’ve worked in theatre houses ranging from Alaska to Hawaii, Boston to Los Angeles, and abroad! This class offers insight on being an artist in various mediums on stage to screen and how to be the best performer you can be regardless of what you think your “type” is. How can we as artists break down the “type” barriers and ensure success? This class is roundtable discussions, Q&A, and optional working sessions: so, bring a monologue or song cut if you’d like to work together to unlock it! For this workshop, you will need access to an electronic device with Zoom. Open to all ages and no previous experience needed!
11 AM
Magic with Coins
taught by Connor Graham
Have you ever wanted to learn the secrets of magic? Connor Graham has taught magic to beginners at schools, summer camps, and even a theme park! Now he’s teaching you how to make coins (and other small items) vanish, appear, and transform! No previous experience needed. For this workshop you will need access to an electronic device, Wifi for Zoom, and a handful of coins (preferably quarters or half dollars).
1 PM
Yoga for Performers
taught by Jess Hughes
Unlock your creativity, connect to your breath, and tap into your energetic body in this accessible asana and pranayama practice. Jess Hughes, who is in the process of receiving her RYT 200 yoga certification, will discuss the roots of yoga and how you can apply yogic principles to your artistic process. You will need access to an electronic device and Wifi for Zoom. A yoga mat is recommended, but a clean floor is a fine substitute!
2 PM
Viewpoints
taught by Erin Alys
Erin Alys studied Viewpoints with SITI Company and has since taught workshops at The Ohio State University. Erin’s classes will investigate Anne Bogart’s Nine Viewpoints in relation to Mary Overlie’s original Six Viewpoints. Sessions will build consecutively, so sign up for multiple or all classes if you are interested in extensive training--or take a single focused session! No previous experience is required. You will need access to an electronic device with camera capability and Wifi for Zoom.
3 PM
Let's Make a Play
taught by Kylie Logan
This Playwriting Series taught by Kylie Logan has a lot more to do with theatrical expression than traditional playwriting. We will work with creative exercises, prompts and collective creation to help you unlock your writer’s voice for the theatre. Once you’ve got an idea, we will work on finding the language to create a blueprint for it. No previous experience needed. At the end of the sessions, participants will create theatrical snippets which will be shared through a virtual reading open to friends and family, or just us. We’ll decide together!
4 PM
Shakespeare & the Thinking Breath
taught by Sean Brennan Naughton
Learn how to engage a piece of heightened text quickly and efficiently. Develop your method of turning language into clear, informed and specific acting choices in a matter of moments. Stop stressing about Shakespeare and start listening to his direction from beyond this mortal coil. Learn the tools to craft a performance straight from the page to the stage by training yourself to explore the meaning between the words. This is a three-part class running Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 4:00pm - 5:20pm.
Required: Please bring a 10-15 verse line monologue from any Shakespeare play. Email monologues to [email protected].
Required: Please bring a 10-15 verse line monologue from any Shakespeare play. Email monologues to [email protected].
Thursday
9 AM
Vocal & Physical Warmup
taught by Lillian Brown
Get your day started right! This class by Lillian Brown will synthesize your mind and body awareness to ensure the rest of your day gets you speaking and feeling like your optimal self! No previous experience needed. For this workshop you don’t need much, just an open space, a water bottle, and clothing you feel comfortable moving around in.
11 AM
Transform the Face
taught by Erin Alys
Hot off her SETC workshop, Erin Alys presents her cutting edge practice-as-research tools to help you craft characters from the neck up. Created through studying facial rehabilitation due to trauma, this practice allows performers to retrain their face to move diversely from their daily expression. In the same way that each person has a unique way of walking, so does each face have a unique way of communicating. For this class you will need access to a front facing camera with recording capability and wifi for Zoom.
1 PM
Creating Mime Illusions
taught by Connor Graham
Connor Graham has performed and taught mime at summer camps, high schools, and as a guest in college classes. He’s trained with some of the best mimes in the world, and now he’s passing it on to you! In this class, participants will learn the fundamentals of creating mime illusions and learn how the art of mime can be applied in so many ways. You will be thinking outside of the (mime) box! No previous experience needed. For this workshop you will need access to an electronic device, Wifi for Zoom, and clothing you can move in.
2 PM
Viewpoints
taught by Erin Alys
Erin Alys studied Viewpoints with SITI Company and has since taught workshops at The Ohio State University. Erin’s classes will investigate Anne Bogart’s Nine Viewpoints in relation to Mary Overlie’s original Six Viewpoints. Sessions will build consecutively, so sign up for multiple or all classes if you are interested in extensive training--or take a single focused session! No previous experience is required. You will need access to an electronic device with camera capability and Wifi for Zoom.
3 PM
Movie Making
taught by Rina Hajra
Rina Hajra is an award-winning filmmaker whose work centers on social justice stories. In this masterclass, participants will learn the ins and outs of making and producing their own films, from applying for grants to finding a crew! Rina Hajra is passionate about telling important stories, and she believes that film and theatre can deeply impact individuals, and in turn, change the world. Open to all. No previous experience needed. Participants will need access to Zoom!
4 PM
Learn Self Hypnosis
taught by Connor Graham
The truth is that ALL hypnosis is SELF hypnosis. Connor Graham has been a certified hypnotist for three years, working as an entertainer in theaters and schools, as well as a consultant, helping people overcome their everyday adversities. Now you can learn fundamental hypnotic techniques that you can implement in your daily life immediately to create the positive changes you wish to see in yourself! For this workshop you will need access to an electronic device and Wifi for Zoom.
8 PM
A Miniature Play
written by Kylie Logan
A reading of selected original works performed over Zoom. Audience members will need access to an electronic device and Wifi for Zoom. More information coming soon!
Friday
10 AM
Professional Aspects, Auditions & Actors' Equity
hosted by Jake Athyal & Matt Greenberg
Are you wondering about what to do when auditioning for an Equity theatre? Are you auditioning for musicals, plays, or both? We’ll cover how to get an audition slot, join the Union, wages, benefits of joining the Union, and the downsides. Jake Athyal and Matt Greenberg are equity actors who’ve worked in theatre houses ranging from Alaska to Hawaii, Boston to Los Angeles, and abroad! This class offers insight on being an artist in various mediums on stage to screen and how to be the best performer you can be regardless of what you think your “type” is. How can we as artists break down the “type” barriers and ensure success? This class is roundtable discussions, Q&A, and optional working sessions: so, bring a monologue or song cut if you’d like to work together to unlock it! For this workshop, you will need access to an electronic device with Zoom. Open to all ages and no previous experience needed!
11 AM
Transform the Face
taught by Erin Alys
Hot off her SETC workshop, Erin Alys presents her cutting edge practice-as-research tools to help you craft characters from the neck up. Created through studying facial rehabilitation due to trauma, this practice allows performers to retrain their face to move diversely from their daily expression. In the same way that each person has a unique way of walking, so does each face have a unique way of communicating. For this class you will need access to a front facing camera with recording capability and wifi for Zoom.
1 PM
Ask a Grad Student
hosted by members of the 2021 MFA Acting Cohort
Do you have questions about grad school, URTAS, auditions, creating your own work and/or want to chat with members of OSU’s MFA Theatre cohort about their experiences? This mid-day power hour is your chance to join the conversation! Grab your coffee, tea and let’s have a roundtable discussion. This seminar is open to participants of all ages and experiences. You will need access to an electronic device and wifi for Zoom!
2 PM
Viewpoints
taught by Erin Alys
Erin Alys studied Viewpoints with SITI Company and has since taught workshops at The Ohio State University. Erin’s classes will investigate Anne Bogart’s Nine Viewpoints in relation to Mary Overlie’s original Six Viewpoints. Sessions will build consecutively, so sign up for multiple or all classes if you are interested in extensive training--or take a single focused session! No previous experience is required. You will need access to an electronic device with camera capability and Wifi for Zoom.
3 PM
Let's Make a Play
taught by Kylie Logan
This Playwriting Series taught by Kylie Logan has a lot more to do with theatrical expression than traditional playwriting. We will work with creative exercises, prompts and collective creation to help you unlock your writer’s voice for the theatre. Once you’ve got an idea, we will work on finding the language to create a blueprint for it. No previous experience needed. At the end of the sessions, participants will create theatrical snippets which will be shared through a virtual reading open to friends and family, or just us. We’ll decide together!
4 PM
Shakespeare and the Thinking Breath
taught by Sean Brennan Naughton
Learn how to engage a piece of heightened text quickly and efficiently. Develop your method of turning language into clear, informed and specific acting choices in a matter of moments. Stop stressing about Shakespeare and start listening to his direction from beyond this mortal coil. Learn the tools to craft a performance straight from the page to the stage by training yourself to explore the meaning between the words. This is a three-part class running Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 4:00pm - 5:20pm.
Required: Please bring a 10-15 verse line monologue from any Shakespeare play. Email monologues to [email protected].
Required: Please bring a 10-15 verse line monologue from any Shakespeare play. Email monologues to [email protected].
8 PM
Magic Show
Performed by Connor Graham
Connor has performed as a professional magician for over a decade. Sit back, relax and enjoy this virtual, interactive magical performance! For this show you will need access to an electronic device and Wifi for Zoom.
Saturday
8 PM
Theatre Moments Sharing
taught by Kylie Logan
Open to all! For this sharing, you will need access to an electronic device and Wifi for Zoom. More information coming soon!
Matt Greenberg: President, Producing Artistic Director
Sean Naughton: Vice President, Executive Director
Lillian Brown: Treasurer, Chief Financial Officer
Kylie Logan: Secretary, Management Director
Jess Hughes: Principal Devisor, Director of Communications
Connor Graham: Principal Devisor, Head of New Work
Erin Alys: Principal Devisor, Intimacy and Stage Combat Director
Rina Hajra: Principal Devisor, Head of Film Work
Jake Athyal: Principal Devisor, Casting and Audience Director
Nicolas Shannon Savard: Principal Devisor
Emily Craver: Principal Devisor