Date of Award
12-2024
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Departmental Honors
Department
Theatre Arts
Abstract
The 10-Minute Play Festival served as the culminating experience of my undergraduate education, combining my skills in stage management, directing, dramaturgy, and arts administration. The project aimed to create an accessible, student-led theatrical event that celebrated inclusion, storytelling, and collaboration. This portfolio highlights both the creative and administrative aspects of my work, showcasing the planning, research, and execution necessary to bring the festival to life. As the festival’s student organizer, I handled administrative tasks such as securing performance rights, designing promotional materials, and coordinating rehearsals. Drawing from dramaturgical research, I developed a vision for my directed play, Three Drunk Poets Find God, and used creative strategies to guide my actors in exploring its literary and theatrical references. Additionally, I worked closely with faculty and peers to navigate challenges such as limited resources, miscommunications, and tight timelines. Through resourceful problem-solving, I supported a positive and inclusive environment for participants and ensured the festival’s success. The results included two well-attended performances, with survey data revealing high audience satisfaction and engagement. Over 91% of respondents rated the festival as "Great" or "Excellent," and all seven plays received specific positive mentions. The event provided opportunities for students outside the theatre department to engage with live performance and created a space for new voices to be heard. Overall, the project not only enriched my understanding of theatre production but also aligned with my career goals in arts administration, highlighting the value of storytelling as a means of building community and fostering creativity.
Recommended Citation
Polizzotto, Sarah Anne, "Storytelling Through USU's 10-Minute Play Festival" (2024). Undergraduate Honors Capstone Projects. 1042.
https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/honors/1042
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Faculty Mentor
Jayne Gold
Departmental Honors Advisor
Stephanie White
Capstone Committee Member
Stefan Espinosa