Jennifer Toohey

Jennifer Toohey serves as an Associate Professor in the Department of Theatre at SUNY Buffalo State University, specializing in voice and speech training with certifications in Fitzmaurice Voicework, Knight Thompson Speechwork, and Vocal Combat Technique. With 20 years of professional experience, she has worked as an actor, director, and accent coach at prominent institutions including the Shaw Festival (4 seasons), Obsidian Theatre, and Irish Classical Theatre Company across Canada and the U.S.

Education:

• BFA in Acting, University of Windsor
• MFA in Acting, Florida Atlantic University

Her research focuses on practical actor training methodologies, particularly vocal techniques for performance. She integrates Fitzmaurice Voicework and Knight Thompson Speechwork into pedagogical frameworks while advancing stage combat safety standards. Her scholarly contributions emerge through professional workshops rather than traditional publications, emphasizing embodied knowledge transfer in theatre education.

Professional Leadership:

• Chair of the National Voice Association in Canada
• Reader for the Jane Chambers Award (feminist playwriting)
• Presenter at Voice and Speech Trainers Association conferences
• Member of Canadian Actor's Equity Association and Voice and Speech Trainers Association