Lakin Raybuck

How ��AV Computer Game Design Program Prepares Students for Industry Success

Lakin Raybuck — Tue, 17 Sep 2024 12:29:59 +0000

How ��AV Computer Game Design Program Prepares Students for Industry Success Lakin Raybuck Tue, 09/17/2024 - 08:29

At ��AV, the Computer Game Design program offers students more than just an education—it provides a direct pathway into the gaming industry. Emphasizing practical experience and industry connections, the program enthralls students in the game community, preparing them for thriving careers. Key events like the Global Game Jam illustrate this immersive approach, where students like Matthew Neri find unique opportunities to hone their skills and build valuable networks.

A game jam is an event where participants, ranging from novices to seasoned professionals, come together to create video games from scratch within a set timeframe, often a weekend or a few days. These events are centered around a specific theme, which remains undisclosed until the jam begins, challenging participants to think creatively and work collaboratively under time constraints. The goal is not just to produce a finished game but to engage in an intensive, hands-on learning experience that enhances game development skills and fosters a sense of community among developers.

Professor Hahn (left) with participants at the Game Jam event, collaborating on innovative game designs.

This game jam, organized by the International Game Developers Association (IGDA), was the first of its kind hosted at ��AV since 2016. The event attracted a diverse group of participants, including students, industry professionals, and hobbyists, all eager to share their passion for game creation. Professor Nathanial Hahn was instrumental in bringing this event to Mason, leveraging his industry connections and commitment to student development to provide a unique opportunity for the Mason community. Through this game jam, students could apply their classroom knowledge in a dynamic, real-world setting, gaining invaluable experience and forging connections that would benefit their future careers.

Neri, who will graduate in Spring 2025, participated in the Global Game Jam at the beginning of the Spring 2024 semester.

"It was great getting to work in a space where everyone had a common goal," Neri said. "The jam not only helped me improve my skills as a game developer but also strengthened my connections within the gaming community." Working alongside friends and peers from the game design program, he experienced firsthand the collaborative spirit and creative intensity that define the game jams at George Mason.

That inclusive and friendly atmosphere is supported and upheld by student organizations like the Game Analysis Design Interest Group (GADIG), of which Neri has been president for two terms GADIG provides a supportive environment for budding game developers and equips them with tangible portfolio pieces that enhance their career prospects. "The end result of having a game at the end of the semester is such a positive outcome," he explained. "I now have numerous projects I can showcase, demonstrating my involvement in game creation."

Faculty members are crucial in bridging the gap between academic learning and industry demands. Professor Nathanial Hahn, who balances his duties at George Mason with his role as associated producer at Bethesda Game Studios, brings current industry insights directly into the classroom. His active involvement in the gaming industry ensures that students are learning the most relevant and up-to-date skills. "I try my best to bridge that gap so that students can find jobs in the industry and companies get developers who are productive from day one," he said.

The program's holistic approach sets it apart from others, emphasizing a broad education in game development. Students gain experience in art, programming, music, and writing, fostering a well-rounded understanding of the game creation process. This comprehensive education helps students identify their strengths and teaches them effective communication skills, which are crucial for successful collaboration in the industry.

Events like the Global Game Jam are integral to this holistic approach, allowing students to apply classroom knowledge in real-world scenarios. Game jams provide a platform for students to experiment with new tools and engines, collaborate under time constraints, and develop innovative games that reflect the rapidly evolving landscape of game development. These events are crucial for preparing students to meet the demands of the gaming industry, offering them the chance to test their skills in a dynamic and challenging environment.

Hahn emphasized the importance of these practical experiences. "Participating in game jams helps students apply what they've learned and prepares them for the teamwork and project management skills required in the industry," he said. His advice to students underscores the program's philosophy: engage in as many game jams as possible to gain practical experience and build a robust portfolio.

George Mason's Computer Game Design program is designed to foster innovation, collaboration and excellence. By integrating practical experiences, expert faculty involvement, and a supportive community, the program prepares students to excel in the competitive gaming industry. Students leave with not only technical skills but also the real-world experiences necessary to navigate and shape the future of game development.

This unique approach to education in the gaming field is tailored to produce skilled professionals and innovators who will continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in gaming. As they transition from the classroom to the global stage, George Mason students are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and experiences that will help them succeed in the ever-evolving world of game development.

Topics

Computer Game Design

George Mason's Green Machine Ensembles Bring the Rock, the White House Provides the Roll

Emily Schneider — Thu, 04 Apr 2024 16:25:43 +0000

George Mason's Green Machine Ensembles Bring the Rock, the White House Provides the Roll Emily Schneider Thu, 04/04/2024 - 12:25

Students, faculty, and staff of the Green Machine Ensembles pose together in front of the White House at the annual Easter Egg Roll on April 1, 2024. Photo by Joshua Cruse & Nathaniel Henry / Green Machine Ensembles

Being invited to perform at the White House is an exciting honor for any ensemble, but for ��AV’s Green Machine Ensembles, it’s an environment where they are quickly becoming comfortable. Following their inaugural performance at the White House Easter Egg Roll in 2023, the ensembles were invited back for the beloved annual event on April 1, 2024. Despite gloomy weather, the Green Machine Ensembles showed delighted crowds how the rain can’t keep them down with a high-energy performance that kept guests mesmerized.

“Our students are engaged, enthusiastic, and dedicated,“ said Matthew Dievendorf, assistant director of academics, research, and audio production, Green Machine Ensembles. "This performance, however, required another level of preparation, not only in a musical sense but in a professional sense. Our students demonstrated admirably that they were ready to perform in a venue that required punctuality, poise, and responsibility."

“Both years this has been a really fun performance, and what makes it really special is the amount of different people we see that we don’t usually get to perform for,” said Kenny Yi, who will graduate with a BS in finance in May. ”It’s a really amazing way to get to have fun and perform for such a diverse audience. The coolest part for me this year was getting to talk to a Secret Service agent, and he told me he was excited when he heard we were coming back because he loved the variety and diversity of music we play, which is what I believe is truly one of the cornerstones of the Green Machine: celebrating diversity and inclusivity through our music.”

Guests at the annual White House Easter Egg Roll pause in front of the Green Machine Ensembles as they perform. Photo by Joshua Cruse & Nathaniel Henry / Green Machine Ensembles

In the vibrant world of the Green Machine, individuals with diverse skill sets and varying levels of experience come together to create something extraordinary. Comprising musicians, dancers, actors, artists, and more, this remarkable university ensemble celebrates the beauty of individuality while fostering a sense of unity. The initial invitation to perform at the White House Easter Egg Roll came from the ensembles’ previous performance for the Department of Education's Special Projects Division. The students' enthusiasm, talent, and infectious energy made them the perfect choice for this annual family-friendly event on the iconic White House South Lawn.

“It was a really great opportunity to perform at such a prestigious event two years in a row,” said Taye Folk, who is working on an MA in international security. “It was so cool to see how many people were surprised and excited to be welcomed to the White House by our energetic group, and it was really awesome to get to have our picture taken on the White House Lawn! Getting to perform alongside Jonesboro High School was electric and really exciting to see such talented young musicians having such a blast performing.”

Members of the Green Machine Ensembles dance as they play during their performance at the 2024 White House Easter Egg Roll. Photo by Joshua Cruse & Nathaniel Henry / Green Machine Ensembles

Members of the Green Machine Ensembles cheer for the Jonesboro High School Marching Band performing at the annual White House Easter Egg Roll on April 1, 2024. Photo by Joshua Cruse & Nathaniel Henry / Green Machine Ensembles

Guests gather in front of The White House on April 1 for the annual Easter Egg Roll. Photo by Joshua Cruse & Nathaniel Henry / Green Machine Ensembles

The theme for the White House Easter Egg Roll for the last three years was “Eggucation,” making this event an even more perfect fit for the Green Machine, whose ensembles are dedicated to learning as a community. Since its creation in 2006, inspired by the Men's Basketball team's epic NCAA Final Four run, the Green Machine has become a vital part of the Mason community. Made up of musicians, dancers, actors, artists, and more, this group creates unforgettable experiences that reflect the values and essence of Mason. The Green Machine has a clear and impactful mission: to deliver diverse and innovative performances for various events and venues. Captivating audiences with its electric energy and unmatched creativity, from exciting sports games to important university ceremonies, lively student recruitment events, and prestigious competitions.

Performers with the Green Machine Ensembles add a little snap to their performance at the White House Easter Egg Roll. Photo by Joshua Cruse & Nathaniel Henry / Green Machine Ensembles

Students performing with the Green Machine Ensembles can't hide their joy at the 2024 White House Easter Egg Roll. Photo by Joshua Cruse & Nathaniel Henry / Green Machine Ensembles

Wet weather at the 2024 White House Easter Egg Roll can't stop the music of the Green Machine Ensembles. Photo by Joshua Cruse & Nathaniel Henry / Green Machine Ensembles

“It was an amazing experience to get to perform at the White House!” exclaimed psychology major Bianca Natal. “Seeing so many people stop and listen to us, dance with us, and cheer with us all while we were at such a prestigious venue was a truly unique and exciting experience.”

Jeremy Freer, associate director of the Green Machine Ensembles, said, “We’ve striven to keep the Green Machine as inclusive as humanly possible for over 17 years now. No matter what instrument you play, audio engineering experience you want to have, or level of commitment, we make a space for you. The result of this policy is a group that has shaped itself over a decade and a half, bringing in amazing human beings and expanding our instrumentation with strings, harp, guitar, keyboard, mallet percussion, auxiliary percussion, vocalists, rappers, and scratch DJ's.”

Green Machine Ensemble performers get into their groove at the 2024 White House Easter Egg Roll on April 1, 2024. Photo by Joshua Cruse & Nathaniel Henry / Green Machine Ensembles

Members of the Green Machine Ensembles can't stop smiling as they put on an incredible performance for the crowds at the 2024 White House Easter Egg Roll. Photo by Joshua Cruse & Nathaniel Henry / Green Machine Ensembles

Their commitment to inclusivity and celebrating individuality makes the Green Machine so unique. No matter your skill level or level of commitment, this fantastic group welcomes anyone with a passion for making music and who wants to be part of something truly extraordinary. In the true spirit of "All Together Different," the Green Machine celebrates the communities’ students are already part of, as well as the ones they form while at George Mason, providing a judgment-free space where students can explore their musical talents, form lifelong friendships, and express themselves artistically.

The Green Machine ensembles are all smiles after their second spectacular performance at the annual White House Easter Egg Roll. Photo by Joshua Cruse & Nathaniel Henry / Green Machine Ensembles

In This Story

Prof. Jeremy Freer

Learn more about the Green Machine

Topics

Green Machine

College of Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA)

White House

White House Easter Egg Roll

student performers

Campus News

College of Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA) School of Music

Dewberry School of Music

How the Young Alumni Commissioning Project Supports Al Refai and Wahls' Visionary Projects

Lakin Raybuck — Tue, 26 Mar 2024 18:08:03 +0000

How the Young Alumni Commissioning Project Supports Al Refai and Wahls' Visionary Projects Lakin Raybuck Tue, 03/26/2024 - 14:08

Welcoming our alumni back to ��AV is even more exciting when they return to share work and projects that are deeply meaningful to them. Preparing to do just that are the latest recipients of the Young Alumni Commissioning Project (YACP), Jumana Al Refai and Rebecca Wahls.

Despite pursuing different degrees within the College of Visual and Performing Arts, each of these alumni found transformative connections during their Mason experience, impacting their outlook on the world as well as their creative futures.

What was most memorable about your time at Mason? Were there particularly eye-opening moments or experiences during your time as a student? How have those experiences impacted your work, potentially including this project that the YACP will support?

Al Refai: Going to Mason was something major. I already graduated and held a bachelor's degree, but it was a big deal because I was actually pursuing a dream of mine and going to Mason was the first step. I was there for a total of three years. The first two years were a struggle because everything was new to me. Everything from the approach to dance, the structure of technique, understanding music, learning different movement approaches, it was all very new to me. I came from a movement background where dance meant simply responding to what I heard. Improvisation was something I was extremely comfortable with. At Mason I learned how to interpret what I heard. How music works, how movement works, and how my body works in response to that. I gained the tools to truly understand why we as humans respond to things physically. Why we use our bodies to express what we hear, what we think, and what we feel. By the time I entered my final year at Mason, I felt like I had truly understood these tools and was able to confidently start applying them. I applied this in my final choreographic piece at Mason which was the third piece that I had choreographed. That experience was an “aha” moment where I understood the power of choreography. I felt empowered because not only did I gain the tools to structure my thoughts and creative process, but now I was able to convey the messages I want to show the world. It made me understand the power of movement and how sometimes words simply are not enough to convey a message.

Wahls: As the director and producer of Him, a feature film, I needed to have a working understanding of all elements of production. While my Mason degree is in Theater, it trained me to always be learning about what those around me do. For kinesthetic learners, learning is doing, so I am a better artist for having spent hours in a lift hanging lights for a production I wasn't otherwise involved in. You have to understand how processes other than your own work - especially if you aspire to leadership positions.

After moving on from Mason, Al Refai expanded her educational and professional experiences at The Ailey School, the official school of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, The School at Jacob's Pillow, Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, San Francisco Conservatory of Dance, and Akram Khan Company Intensive in London. These experiences “[refined] my choreographic voice… I was ready to take on the world of movement confidently. It prepared me to not be afraid to try things and to constantly explore my movement voice.”

A native of Kuwait, Al Refai returned there in 2018, where she founded the Haraka Center for Movement Arts (HCMA). The center is a beacon for women and girls, offering a supportive environment to explore dance. HCMA's philosophy emphasizes movement as a universal form of communication, encouraging students to embrace their individuality and push artistic boundaries.

Wahls similarly continued her educational exploration after leaving Mason, completing her MFA in Directing from Carnegie Mellon University, where she was a John Wells Fellow from 2020-23. In 2017, she founded the nonprofit theatre Who What Where Productions, where she produced and directed several world premiere plays including Spills by Ruthie Rado, which has gone on to successful runs in NYC and London. Rebecca has worked as Artistic Associate for Acting for Young People since 2012, and her current focus with the company is on private coaching and corporate improv events. In April 2022, Wahls spoke at TEDxCMU, delivering her presentation titled “Yes, And: The Power of Improv in EveryDay Life."

Both women are excited to bring their unique projects home to Mason, with the support of their awards from the Young Alumni Commissioning Project.

The Haraka Project, an extension of Al Refai’s vision, seeks to elevate dance awareness in the Gulf region through performances that draw on Middle Eastern art, music, and landscapes. This initiative not only showcases Jumana's choreographic talents but also fosters collaboration with local artists, contributing to a vibrant cultural dialogue. Reflecting on her path, Jumana credits her time at Mason with preparing her for the challenges and opportunities of the dance world. Her journey underscores the importance of curiosity, risk-taking, and adaptability—qualities she encourages in current and prospective Mason students. When Al Refai returns to campus, she will present Tashkeel تْشِكيل, a short film featuring four dancers from Kuwait and abroad as well as Al Refai as dancer and choreographer.

Building on the expansive skill set she developed at Mason and beyond, Wahls will present Him, a feature-length ensemble comedy film. Wahls directed, co-wrote, and co-produced Him, alongside actor and writer Tess Higgins. Wahls is excited to showcase her work to the Mason community which helped to foster her personal and professional growth with the film, which is now an official selection of the Sedona International Film Festival.

What advice or insights would you offer to current or prospective Mason students as they consider pursuing their own artistic practice and professional careers?

Al Refai: Take risks. Ask Questions. Be the odd one out. Try new things. You will only regret the chances you didn’t take so seize every opportunity that comes your way. Whatever plan you have set for yourself, adapt. Adapt to the changes that come your way and learn from these experiences, and see what you can learn from it. Whether you are a prospective or current student at Mason, stay hungry for knowledge and invest in yourself as an artist.

Wahls: Instead of "networking," focus on building community. Many people I met at Mason remain allies to my artistic practice. Him features the work of fellow alums Kira Omans on screen, and of Noah Peterson and Keenan Gibson behind the scenes. Our VFX Supervisor, Eric Stenmark, is someone I didn't know at Mason, but was connected to because of my strong network within the Mason alumni community. I'm writing a new musical with another alum, Maggie Marie Rodgers. Faculty members Mary Lechter, Kevin Murray, and Rick Davis have all been instrumental in my professional journey. Your community is everything, and right now, you should be fostering your Mason community so that it transcends your undergraduate experience.

You can follow the creative journeys of each of these talented artists on social media, with Al Refai via @jumanaalrefai and @haraka.center, and Wahls via @rebeccawahls.

Stay tuned for more news and announcements about these talented alumni and to help us welcome them back to campus for their events during the 2024-25 academic year!

Topics

Young Alumni Commissioning Project. alumni support

Alumni

College of Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA)

Tech Talent Investment Pipeline (TTIP)

Harmony in Diversity – Mason's Jazz Vocal Ensemble Hits the Global Stage

Lakin Raybuck — Tue, 26 Mar 2024 17:13:48 +0000

Harmony in Diversity – Mason's Jazz Vocal Ensemble Hits the Global Stage Lakin Raybuck Tue, 03/26/2024 - 13:13

In This Story

Dr. Darden Purcell

At ��AV Dewberry School of Music, the Mason Jazz Vocal Ensemble, directed by Dr. Darden Purcell, has notably marked the past year with accolades that spotlight not just their musical aptitude but the inclusive spirit that defines the university.

This ensemble, distinctively open to auditions from across the university's diverse student body, stands as a living testament to George Mason's core ethos of inclusivity and the unique opportunities it fosters, perfectly embodying the "all together different" spirit that pulses through the campus.

The ensemble's journey through the year was nothing short of remarkable, crowned by winning the prestigious DownBeat Student Music Award for "Outstanding Performance—Large Vocal Jazz Ensemble, Undergraduate College" in spring 2023. This accolade, recognized globally, spotlighted the ensemble's exceptional talent and unwavering dedication, setting them apart in a fiercely competitive field with submissions spanning the globe.

Mason Jazz Vocal Ensemble. Photo Credit: Joyce Boghosian

The ensemble's journey of achievements gracefully flowed into another standout moment as they carried the banner for ��AV at the Virginia Music Educators Association (VMEA) conference in November 2023. Standing as the university's singular musical voice at this event, they beautifully embodied the spirit and talent of Mason. The crescendo of their narrative hit a thrilling peak during their performance at the Jazz Education Network (JEN) conference in New Orleans, LA, in January 2024. Amidst a global gathering of talent, they stood out as one of only six Vocal Jazz groups chosen to perform, solidifying their place as a beacon of excellence in the international jazz community.

The ensemble's composition—comprising 15 dedicated members, including 11 vocalists alongside a rhythm section of piano, guitar, bass, and drums—mirrors the university's academic diversity. With students from Music Studies to Business and Creative Writing, the group exemplifies the rich tapestry of George Mason's student body, their varied backgrounds adding layers of depth and perspective to their music.

Preparing for such esteemed stages involved an intense rehearsal schedule, pushing the ensemble to explore a repertoire that was as challenging as it was rewarding. This included premieres written expressly for them by Mason Jazz faculty Dr. Shawn Purcell and pieces that demanded a high level of improvisation and professional skill, truly stretching their musical capabilities.

The ensemble's path to these prestigious platforms was paved by the generous support from the Office of Student Scholarship, Creative Activities, and Research (OSCAR) and the Dewberry School of Music Jazz Studies program, alongside proceeds from the annual Jazz4Justice concert. This backing is crucial, reflecting the university's investment in nurturing creative and scholarly pursuits.

Entering these highly competitive events required a submission process that mirrored the professional music world's rigor, emphasizing "live" and unedited performances. This stringent selection criterion underscores the ensemble's excellence and aligns with the university's dedication to authenticity and high standards.

For those within the Mason Jazz Vocal Ensemble, the year was transformative, filled with opportunities beyond performances to personal and professional growth. The shared experiences, from rehearsals to stage, fostered a profound sense of unity, highlighting the ensemble's role as not just musicians but ambassadors of ��AV's inclusive culture.

Reflecting on the ensemble's achievements, it’s clear that their story is more than a sequence of musical triumphs. It's a narrative that celebrates the power of opportunity, diversity, and collaboration, reflecting Mason's supportive, dynamic, and diverse environment. Through their musical journey, the ensemble showcased their formidable talents and the rich, empowering backdrop of George Mason, where every student is encouraged to explore, perform, and excel.

Topics

Dewberry School of Music

diversity equity and inclusion DEI

Linda Apple Monson Honored in the Steinway Teacher Hall of Fame

Lakin Raybuck — Wed, 08 Nov 2023 15:08:39 +0000

Linda Apple Monson Honored in the Steinway Teacher Hall of Fame Lakin Raybuck Wed, 11/08/2023 - 10:08

In This Story

Dr. Linda Apple Monson

Extraordinary teachers shape the future of talented students. Among them is Mason’s own Linda Apple Monson, international Steinway Artist and director of the Reva and Sid Dewberry Family School of Music at ��AV. Her passion, expertise, and commitment to teaching piano have earned her a place in the prestigious 2023 Steinway Teacher Hall of Fame.

The Steinway Teacher Hall of Fame is a distinguished honor celebrating the dedication and passion of the outstanding piano educators of North America.

During her more than 20 years at Mason, which is an All-Steinway School, Monson shared her profound musical insights with gifted students from across the globe. Her influence extends far beyond the classroom, as she has graced stages across the United States, Europe, Asia, Latin America, and Australia with her performances and lecture-recitals.

Pictured above: Gavin English, president of Steinway & Sons Americas with Dr. Linda Apple Monson

"I am humbled and honored to be inducted into the 2023 Steinway Teacher Hall of Fame. My heart is filled with gratitude for this honor and for the incredible privilege of teaching piano, our beloved art form, to the next generation of artists at ��AV," shared Monson.

"As an International Steinway Performing Artist, I am particularly honored to receive this additional prestigious award in recognition of my career as a teacher and mentor to my remarkable piano students," she added.

Gavin English, president of Steinway & Sons Americas, expressed his appreciation at the recent induction ceremony in New York City: "Your passionate commitment to teaching and inspiring young people in their study of piano music is commendable and rare. Through your efforts, you help students lay the foundation for a lifetime of musical and artistic expression."

We celebrate Monson's exceptional dedication and role in shaping the next generation of piano artists. Her inclusion in the 2023 Steinway Teacher Hall of Fame is a well-deserved recognition of her extraordinary contributions to music education and piano artistry.

Topics

College of Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA) School of Music

Dewberry School of Music

Faculty and Staff News

A Contemporary Composer Fuels a New Mason Collaboration

Emily Schneider — Tue, 07 Mar 2023 19:19:10 +0000

A Contemporary Composer Fuels a New Mason Collaboration Emily Schneider Tue, 03/07/2023 - 14:19

In This Story

Lawrence M. Jackson

Dr. William Lake, Jr.

Growing up in the Black church, Assistant Professor of Music and Director of Concert Bands, Dr. William Lake, Jr., deeply understands the power of music and movement.

After hearing Come Sunday by composer Omar Thomas, Lake dreamed of bringing this work to life with movement, bringing together the ��AV Bands and the School of Dance. Working on such a project would not only expand his students' musical vocabulary but also create an authentic and expansive cultural experience for the Mason community. Associate Professor of Dance, Lawrence M. Jackson, had similar experiences, growing up in “the southern Black church, a very charismatic church” and reflected on his own upbringing and research into African diasporic dance forms. This collaboration came to life onstage in the Center for the Arts on Mason’s Fairfax Campus on February 28.

Students from Mason's School of Dance performing with the Mason Wind Symphony to Omar Thomas's Come Sunday on February 28. Photo by Will Martinez.

As a composer, arranger, and educator, Omar Thomas works with some of the most respected names in composition and education, including multiple GRAMMY-winning composer and bandleader Maria Schneider, Ken Schaphorst, and Frank Carlberg. Born to Guyanese parents in Brooklyn, New York, Thomas pursued music diligently, completing his Master of Music at Berklee College of Music and becoming the first Black composer to ever receive the National Bandmasters Association/Revelli Award for Come Sunday. His compositions are described as “thought-provoking, multi-layered masterpiece[s],” which made embarking on a partnership around this piece even more exciting for Jackson and Lake.

“I really hold dear my experiences as a musician in the Black church (I started playing the piano for my children’s choir around age 6) to my musical upbringing. Since I know gospel and other sacred music intimately, I can infuse the music with the extra nuances that can’t be described using notation but are true to the style. This piece has been performed by many great ensembles across the country… however, there hasn’t been a performance that centers movement and these great sounds.” said Lake.

Professor Jackson’s career often includes collaborations, a hallmark of his practice at other universities before coming to Mason in the fall of 2022. While the invitation to work with Dr. Lake at the end of the fall semester was a surprise, it also felt reassuring to find this partnership so early on and to begin exploring what this experience would mean for Mason students from both the School of Dance and the Dewberry School of Music.

A student from the School of Dance smiles at the audience during the performance of "Come Sunday" by Omar Thomas, performed by the Mason Wind Symphony. Photo by Will Martinez.

Building a vocabulary for the dancers was an opportunity for Jackson’s students to explore the storied culture of the Black church's sacred space and develop an understanding of the types of movement vocabulary that would reflect the energy and history of these spaces and traditions. From watching Alvin Ailey’s Revelations and clips of a particular scene from the movie Blues Brothers, Jackson offered context to his creative process, “blending contemporary dance forms, African diasporic dance forms, and pedestrian movement that is derived from the Black church, all merged into an amalgamation of movement vocabulary uniquely designed for this work.”

“The Mason School of Dance students are excited to work with the musicians,” said Jackson. “These dancers, most of them, if not all of them, have never had the experience of working alongside a symphony or a band. I’m excited for them to experience the unique energy of the symphony and adapt in the moment.” All of the dancers performing in this piece are seniors in their final semester with the School of Dance, which made Jackson that much more eager to share this experience with them before they embark on the next stage of their careers.

The dancers are not the only ones expanding their understanding and skills with this performance. “The jazz and gospel musical vocabulary is foreign to my students,” said Dr. Lake.

“It’s inspiring to see how invested our students are in something that they realize is new and different. My hope is that through music and collaborations, my students have a gateway to appreciate cultures different than their own,” Lake adds.

Dancers from Mason's School of Dance perform Professor Lawrence M. Jackson's original choreography to Come Sunday by Omar Thomas, performed by the Mason Wind Symphony on February 28. Photo by Will Martinez.

Unlike most concerts, the Wind Symphony will be moved further upstage than normal and without the acoustic shell to allow for the choreography to be presented downstage. This has resulted in the assistance of the Center for the Arts Artistic Staff to add audio, lighting, and stage-managing support. This unique concert has been chosen as one of the Mason Arts at Home features that will be captured via six cameras in the hall and even GoPros! Dr. Lake shared, “I’m jealous of the audience, I won’t get to experience the concert from their vantage point – I’m thankful that the School of Music and the College of Visual and Performing Arts have agreed to record, edit, and professionally mix our hard work”.

The duo is optimistic that this is just the beginning of collaborations between the Mason School of Dance and the Dewberry School of Music.

You can watch an in-depth interview with Jackson and Lake on the College of Visual and Performing Arts YouTube channel, including behind-the-scenes footage of rehearsals leading up to the performance.

The Wind Symphony’s performance from February 28, 2023, including Come Sunday featuring the School of Dance, will be available to watch from March 28 through April 28, 2023 exclusively through Mason Arts at Home.

Topics

College of Visual and Performing Arts

Mason Arts

Dewberry School of Music

College of Visual and Performing Arts School of Dance

Mason School of Theater Alumni Collaborate on Musical at Carnegie Mellon

Lakin Raybuck — Tue, 25 Oct 2022 14:00:30 +0000

Mason School of Theater Alumni Collaborate on Musical at Carnegie Mellon Lakin Raybuck Tue, 10/25/2022 - 10:00

Rebecca Wahls, Mason School of Theater alumna and director of this old haunt.

This is not the first time Mason School of Theater alumni actor/lyricist Maggie Rodgers and writer/director Rebecca Wahls have joined creative forces.

The pair first worked together in 2013 in a play that Wahls directed, followed by several other pieces in subsequent years.

What had originated as an idea for a thesis for Wahls, who now attends Carnegie Mellon University, the musical, this old haunt, evolved over time and countless Zoom calls. With Rodgers overseeing the music and lyrics, Wahls directing, and NYC-based playwright SMJ writing the book, they held eight separate draft readings with other artists across the country to build their team. Once they received the official greenlight from Carnegie Mellon, the physical world of the play began to come to life.

“Going to Mason was the best choice I ever made. The relationships I formed during my time at Mason include not only Maggie but many of my most essential collaborators” shared Wahls. As for students pursuing a career in theater, she adds, “If you are dedicated to making a career in the arts, don't wait for permission. Write the play, raise the money you need to make it happen, book the venue, get people in seats. You also don't have to do things the way someone else already did them. Decide how much time, how much money, and what people you need to make the thing happen. Being an artist-producer has been essential to my journey, and through the skill set I have acquired, I have been able to lift up my own work and the work of my collaborators.”

School of Theater alumna Maggie Marie Rodgers, actor and lyricist.

“Mason gave me the opportunity to really explore text and new work. A lot of my time at Mason was figure it out with your collaborators." said Rodgers. Many late nights were spent in rehearsal rooms. We worked really hard and got great support from the faculty. My time at Mason led me to opportunities such as studying at the O'Neill Theatre Center and being an apprentice at Berkshire Theatre Group.” As for her advice to aspiring students, “Go see shows in the DC area (they have discounts for students). Write down what worked and didn't work-how can you put that into your practice? Support your classmates who do get a part. It's a community that brings each other up.”

The musical, this old haunt, explores the ups and downs of friendship and how the people we know become ghosts. 10 years after high school, Hetty, Selina, Caroline, and Penelope reunite after their choir teacher's passing. In a cabin in the woods, old memories and past selves are summoned.

What’s next for this team? The Big Apple! Following the academic premiere of this old haunt at Carnegie Mellon University this fall, November 19-30, they are planning a concert of the music in Spring 2023 in New York City.

For more information, including how to purchase tickets, visit this old haunts performance website.

this old haunt
Created by Maggie Marie Rodergs, Rebecca Wahls, and SMJ
Music and lyrics by Maggie Marie Rodgers
Book by SMJ
Additional music and lyrics by Annabelle Lee Revak

Topics

College of Visual and Performing Arts School of Theater

Mason's School of Theater Presents Head Over Heels

Lakin Raybuck — Fri, 14 Oct 2022 19:07:18 +0000

Mason's School of Theater Presents Head Over Heels Lakin Raybuck Fri, 10/14/2022 - 15:07

Purchase Head Over Heels Tickets

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The effervescent production, featuring a cast of Mason’s School of Theater students, will make its debut at Mason’s Center for the Arts on October 27, 2022, and will run through October 30, 2022.

The cast of the upcoming production of Head Over Heels performed songs from the show during a presentation at ARTS by George! on September 25. Photo by Cable Risdon Photography.

From the visionaries that rocked Broadway with Hedwig and the Angry Inch, Avenue Q, and Spring Awakening, Head Over Heels will have you laughing out loud while taking you on a nostalgic journey with 1980’s classics such as the Go-Go’s “We Got the Beat,” and Belinda Carlisle’s “Heaven is a Place on Earth.”

"I know what you might be thinking, how could a 15th-century Elizabethan farce and the music of an 80s rock band possibly go together? Well they do in this fun and relevant show, Head Over Heels!" said Erin Driscoll Gardiner, the show's director, who is also an adjunct faculty member in the School of Theater and a well-known D.C.-area performer.

"At its core, Head Over Heels is about a people steeped in tradition awakening to their true selves, love, acceptance, and forgiveness," shared Gardiner. "When I first was approached to direct this piece, I immediately thought of Madonna’s 1991 MTV Awards performance. She and her dancers were all in period costumes performing Vogue for the young MTV audience. That mixed world where both coexist is where I wanted this show to live. Head Over Heels is its own universe full of color and nature. "

Performing alongside the actors is a band composed of three alumni, one current student, and one faculty member from Mason’s Reva and Sid Dewberry Family School of Music.

The show is based on the 15th-century story, The Countess of Pembroke’s Arcadia, written by Sir Philip Sidney, with the book by Jeff Whitty, and adapted by James Magruder. A love story that is equally heartwarming and hilarious to watch follows the escapades of a royal family on an outrageous journey to save their kingdom from extinction.

The show features musical direction by Joe Walsh (Term Assistant Professor, Dewberry School of Music) and choreography by Stefan Sittig (Adjunct Faculty, School of Theater).

"For the characters in our fictional Arcadia, they must leave their home and journey into the unknown. After two years in a global pandemic and our current political climate, changing ‘the norm’ can seem to threaten our way of life. But, this is the very time to let ourselves be turned upside down and see things anew. All the while, remembering that everyone can make mistakes, learn, and grow. Finding forgiveness and embracing love, when it seems impossible, IS how we change and grow.”

The cast of the upcoming production of Head Over Heels strikes a pose during a showcase at ARTS by George! on September 25. Photo by Cable Risdon Photography.

"This show is a challenge asking its performers to conquer the heightened Elizabethan language while also having proficiency in 80s rock music. Not only has this cast risen to the challenge but they have managed to create a piece that is heartwarming and a blast to watch," said Gardiner.

Topics

College of Visual and Performing Arts School of Theater

ARTS by George! Returns, raising nearly $250,000 to support students in the arts at Mason

Emily Schneider — Tue, 04 Oct 2022 20:55:40 +0000

ARTS by George! Returns, raising nearly $250,000 to support students in the arts at Mason Emily Schneider Tue, 10/04/2022 - 16:55

In This Story

Rick Davis

Kristin Chenoweth (right) stands backstage with Dean Rick Davis of the College of Visual and Performing Arts at ��AV. (Photo by Cable Risdon Photography)

“The full-scale return of ARTS by George! was a joyous experience from top to bottom,” exclaims Rick Davis, Dean of the College of Visual and Performing Arts.

ARTS by George returned on Saturday, September 24, 2022, following a two-year hiatus, hosted by the College of Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA) at ��AV. The event gave students and faculty from each discipline an opportunity to pull back the curtain and present behind-the-scenes showcases, film screenings, performances, and interactive experiences. Stations of exquisite cuisine and beverages were available to guests while attending exhibits across ten open studios and rehearsal halls on Mason’s Fairfax Campus.

In a truly special start to the evening, students from the School of Theater were able to join the event’s headliner, Kristin Chenoweth, for her soundcheck in the Concert Hall of the Center for the Arts, prior to their own performances in the evening’s showcases. The Tony and Emmy Award winner welcomed them with open arms, remarking “These are my people! I’m your people and you're my people, and I'm so excited to have you here tonight!”

Students from the School of Theater perform selections from the upcoming production of Head Over Heels at ARTS! By George 2022. (Photo by Cable Risdon Photography)

During the evening’s showcases, guests flowed in and out of three buildings on the Fairfax Campus: the de Laski Performing Arts Building, Harris Theatre, and Horizon Hall. Inside de Laski, students from the School of Theater dazzled the crowd with their powerful voices and clever choreography as they previewed songs from their upcoming production of Head Over Heels. Just down the hall, the emerging professionals of Mason’s School of Dance performed to packed houses, and graciously responded to questions from the audience after each performance. The Dewberry School of Music didn’t stop the beat all night, with talented instrumental and vocal musicians presenting piano, jazz, and opera selections during the two and half hours of student showcases.

Students from the School of Dance perform during a showcase at ARTS! By George 2022. (Photo by Cable Risdon Photography)

As guests made their way out of deLaski across the Johnson Center Plaza, they were enticed into Harris Theater by the resonant sounds of Mason’s Symphony Orchestra. Alternating their time on the Harris stage, students from the Film and Video Studies program screened their films, offering guests a sneak peek into the revolutionary stories crafted at Mason. More music flowed from the amphitheater space between Harris and Horizon Hall, where the Spirit Drumline, the 8^th Green Machine Regiment Band, and the Green Machine Pep Band kept toes tapping as guests ambled along the walkway into Horizon Hall.

The Mason Symphony Orchestra performs on the stage of Harris Theatre during ARTS! By George 2022. (Photo by Cable Risdon Photography)

Members of the Green Machine Pep Band perform outside Horizon Hall at ARTS! By George 2022. (Photo by Cable Risdon Photography)

Inside Horizon Hall, staff and students from Mason Community Arts Academy (MCAA) spoke about the impact of having such incredible arts programs available in our community from such a young age, and performed vocal and instrumental music for the assembled crowd. Offering a hands-on exploration of their disciplines, the Film and Video Studies program and the Computer Game Design program created mini studios inside the Mason Innovation Exchange (MIX), where guests explored a change of scenery via the green screen demonstrations and virtual reality headsets. Also in the MIX, the School of Art gave guests a chance to play with printing, personalizing a postcard they could take with them as a memento of their experience, while elsewhere in the room, students chatted with guests while demonstrating the capabilities of the 3D printers.

Faculty from the School of Art walk guests through the interactive printing station in the Mason Innovation Exchange (MIX) at ARTS! By George 2022. (Photo by Cable Risdon Photography)

A guest poses in front of the green screen during a demonstration by the Film and Video Studies program at ARTS! By George 2022. (Photo by Cable Risdon Photography)

A student from Mason Community Arts Academy performs a song on her violin at ARTS! By George 2022. (Photo by Cable Risdon Photography)

Guests test out the virtual reality demonstration with the Computer Game Design program at ARTS! By George 2022. (Photo by Cable Risdon Photography)

After the showcases, everyone flowed down the hill and into the Center for the Arts Concert Hall for the live auction, followed by the headlining concert. Guests were welcomed to the auction by Mason President Gregory Washington, who remarked, “Tonight, we celebrate the excellence of Mason’s College of Visual and Performing Arts and the vibrant cultural offerings it provides to our campuses and wider community. The arts are one of the front doors to the university and attract visitors of all ages and backgrounds. We’re pleased that so many of you have found your way through our door to become involved with CVPA and Mason. Your generosity supports student scholarships and helps ensure that talent meets opportunity, and that budding artists can develop their gifts and pursue their passions here at Mason.”

President Gregory Washington Addresses the Crowd at ARTS! By George 2022. (Photo by Cable Risdon Photography)

The auction items and the Fund-A-Student opportunities, which directly contribute to the scholarships available to CVPA students, raised more than $23,000. Taking the stage after the auction, Rick Davis expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the full house, saying “As I’m sitting here, knowing the students that these contributions support, many of them personally, many of them in my classes, knowing what it does for our College’s ability to grant the opportunity of a first-rate education, not just in the arts, but a first-rate university education, knowing what we have accomplished here tonight in just these 27 minutes or so, is personally very, very, very gratifying, so thank you all so very, very much. . . Some of you know me well and you’ll know that when I say I’m almost speechless, you’ll know that that is a significant accomplishment!”

Capping off the evening, Kristin Chenoweth performed a concert from her album For The Girls, a tribute to prominent female singers throughout history. After the show, Chenoweth and Davis ended the night with a champagne toast on stage.

The annual philanthropic event raised approximately $250,000 for student scholarships in dance, theater, game design, film, music, visual arts, and arts management, as well as for the Mason Community Arts Academy, Green Machine Ensembles, and the Great Performances at Mason season at the Center for the Arts.

See more images from the event by clicking here!