Megan Alrutz is a full Professor and Associate Chair in the Department of Theatre and Dance at the University of Texas at Austin. She specializes in Drama and Theatre for Youth and Communities and oversees the UTeach Theatre program. Her expertise spans creating interdisciplinary performance for stage and screen, storytelling, and drama-based pedagogy. Education: Arizona State University, Rutgers University Academic Rank: Professor Department: Theatre and Dance University: University of Texas at Austin Her research integrates applied theatre , digital storytelling , devising , and dramaturgy to engage young audiences and address social justice themes. She has pioneered theatre for the very young (ages 2-6) and collaborated with award-winning screenwriter Mo Willems. Alrutz co-founded the Center for Imagining and Performing Justice and co-directs programs like Patchwork Stories and the Performing Justice Project . She has authored or co-authored three books and contributed to journals like Research in Drama Education and Youth Theatre Journal . Contact: Email: malrutz@austin.utexas.edu Phone: 512-232-6383 Location: WIN 2.164
Alex Torra serves as a Visiting Assistant Professor in the Department of Theater at Swarthmore College, teaching core courses including Acting 1, Acting 2, Solo Performance, Acting Capstone, Production Ensemble, and the specialized course 'Performance Latinidad: Latinx Theater, Film, and Performance Art.' His academic work integrates professional directing experience from productions like Brecht's The Caucasian Chalk Circle and Churchill's Revolt. She Said. Revolt Again. His research centers on experimental theater methodologies and Latinx performance traditions, with emphasis on ensemble-devised creation processes and cross-cultural narratives. This manifests in both classroom instruction and professional projects exploring identity, migration, and political resistance through contemporary performance frameworks. Torra's contributions have earned recognition through prestigious awards: Pew Fellowship in the Arts (2018) Independence Foundation Fellowship Princess Grace Foundation Fellowship Oregon Shakespeare Festival Fellowship Drama League Fellowship Philadelphia Live Arts Festival Fellowship As Co-Founder of Team Sunshine Performance Corporation and former Associate Artistic Director of Obie Award-winning Pig Iron Theatre Company, he mentors students through production ensembles and capstone projects while securing institutional support through fellowship funding. His Philadelphia-based practice bridges academic theater training with professional experimental performance development.
Professor Richard Chew is Director of the Arts Academy at Federation University Australia's Camp Street Campus. A composer, pianist, and baritone, he has held academic roles at University of South Australia, Elder Conservatorium of Music, and Federation University Australia since 2018. His work spans orchestral, operatic, and interdisciplinary music-theatre forms, with commissions from English National Opera, Welsh National Opera, and international festivals. PhD in Communication Studies (UniSA, 2014) Master of Music Performance Studies (Royal College of Music London, 1991) Associate Researcher at Lythrum Press and Australian Music Centre Chew's research focuses on contemporary composition practices, blending opera, music theatre, and devised performance. His work integrates visual arts (e.g., Ford Madox Brown's painting), literature (Gerard Manley Hopkins, Michael Ende), and social justice themes. Notable projects include the oratorio Stari Most (commissioned for Salisbury Cathedral's 750th Anniversary) and founding the vocal ensemble The Shout, described by The Times as a blueprint for 21st-century choral singing. Recent publications include chamber works for Inscape Piano Trio and adaptations like Momo (2022). His music is characterized by transparent melodic lines, jazz-inflected harmonies, and collaborations with institutions such as the Art Gallery of Ballarat, Creative Victoria, and the National Theatre (London). Awards include the Royal College of Music's President's Rose Bowl and multiple international performances at venues including Southbank Centre and Her Majesty’s Theatre.
Tracy Miller is an Associate Teaching Professor in Voice/Movement and Acting at the University of Rhode Island. With a career spanning multiple institutions and theatrical roles, she specializes in performance techniques and creative development of theatrical works. Her educational background includes a BFA in Musical Theatre Performance from Western Michigan University and an MFA in Acting from Alabama Shakespeare Festival/University of Alabama. Current research and creative interests focus on reimagined classical works, devised theatre, physical theatre, and new work development. Previously taught at SUNY Albany, Western Connecticut State University, Arizona State University, and Chandler-Gilbert Community College. Co-Founding Producing Artistic Director of Connecticut Theatre Exchange and active as a freelance actor and director.
Dr. Margaret Ames is a Senior Lecturer in Theatre and Performance at the Department of Theatre, Film, and Television Studies , Aberystwyth University . Her work focuses on the intersection of performance, disability, and Welsh cultural contexts, particularly through long-term collaborations with the Cyrff Ystwyth Dance Company . Education: BA (University of London), MA (University of Wales), Graduate Diploma (University of Surrey), PhD (Aberystwyth University, 2017) Research Interests: Margaret specializes in creating inclusive dance-theatre practices that center individuals with learning disabilities. Her projects explore embodied action, gestural communication, and how disability performance navigates cultural, spatial, and digital boundaries. She co-led an AHRC-funded project on 'Challenging Liquid Place' and contributes to international dialogues on disability and theatre. Research Trends: Recent publications emphasize digital performance adaptations (e.g., 'Zoom Days'), cross-cultural disability practices ('Optimistic Becomings'), and gestural innovation in dance theatre. Collaborations with companies like Speckled Egg Dance Company highlight resilience and aesthetic redefinition in inclusive arts. Students: Supervised a Master of Philosophy project and mentored doctoral research on performance aesthetics. Lab & Teams: Co-founded the Cyrff Ystwyth Dance Company , integrating practice-based research with community engagement. Active in the IFTR Performance and Disability Working Group and the Nordic Network for Disability Research .
Piotr Woycicki is a Lecturer in Theatre and New Media at Aberystwyth University's Department of Theatre, Film, and Television Studies, where he has been employed since 2013. Prior to this position, he lectured at the University of Exeter and Lancaster University. He holds a PhD (2010), MA (Res), and BA (Hons) from Lancaster University, along with PGCTHE and FHEA qualifications. Woycicki's research focuses on the intersections between political and aesthetic theory, particularly the work of Lyotard, Deleuze, and Rancière, and contemporary intermedial performance practice. His primary areas include post-cinematic theatre, neuroaesthetic approaches to performance analysis, and the historical relationship between scientific discourse and deconstructions of the essentialist human subject in theatre. He is an active member of the Intermediality Working Group within the International Federation for Theatre Research (IFTR). His recent scholarly output demonstrates a strong trend toward digital performance, virtual reality applications in theatre, and the integration of AI technologies with traditional performance practices. Woycicki's work increasingly explores how emerging technologies can transform theatrical experiences while maintaining critical engagement with political and philosophical frameworks. His publications span performance theory, digital scenography, and practice-as-research methodologies, with particular emphasis on diffractive dramaturgies and interoceptive experiences in VR environments. Scientific Awards and Recognition: AHRC network grant award as Principal Investigator for 'Theatre, A.I. and ludic technologies' (2021-2022) Prestigious/honorary/advisory position to an external body (2022) Woycicki serves as an editor for Body, Space & Technology journal and has organized significant events including the 'Performing A.I.: Stage, Sound and Screen' workshop at Aberystwyth Arts Centre. He has collaborated extensively with performance companies including Imitating the Dog, director Pete Brooks, Lucy Gough, and David Ian Rabey on numerous international projects. His creative practice extends to composing chamber music and orchestral works, with performances at Casa da Musica in Oporto, Portugal. As a principal investigator for the AHRC-funded 'Theatre, A.I. and ludic technologies' network, Woycicki has established a research laboratory exploring the intersection of humanist discourses and emerging technologies. This initiative has organized multiple symposia addressing humanist perspectives on AI, disruptions in cultural contexts, and immersive embodied experiences through VR and inclusive futures.
Jodie Allinson is a Senior Lecturer in Drama at the University of South Wales, affiliated with the Faculty of Creative Industries. She leads the MA Drama course and holds a PhD in 'Approaches to Multimedia Theatre: Theory, Practice, Pedagogy.' Her research focuses on interdisciplinary performance practices, collaboration, disability and performance, and inclusive education strategies for neurodivergent students. She has been a co-researcher on projects addressing anti-racist pedagogy, performance and stroke rehabilitation, and neurodivergent learning practices. Education: Senior Accredited Member of the National Association of Disability Practitioners (SAMNADP), 2023 Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, 2014 PhD in Drama, University of Wales, 2012 BA (Hons) in Drama, University of Wales, 1996 Research Interests: Jodie’s work spans performance and cognition, storytelling, autobiographical performance, and pedagogy for neurodivergent learners. Notable projects include investigating drama practices for dyslexic students and creative grieving processes in performance. Awards and Recognition: Excellence in Learning and Teaching Awards (2008, 2012, 2013) Recipient of Body, Space Language and In and Between research grants Advising & Grants: Supervised PhD candidates including Sean Tuan John and Martin Constantine. Led projects funded by CELT, RIS, and Creative Wales. Collaborated with institutions such as the National Eisteddfod and Chapter Arts Centre. Groups & Networks: Member of the Theatre, Media and Drama Research Group and the Centre for the Study of Media and Culture in Small Nations. Collaborates with artists like Inga Burrow and Emily Underwood-Lee.
Thomas Wilson serves as Programme Director for BA (Hons) European Theatre Arts at Rose Bruford College, where he teaches approaches to devised and physical theatres, practical artistic research, and the 'training of training'. He also coordinates the institution's Turing scheme activities and acts as a Mental Health First Aider. His educational background includes: MA Physical Theatre (London) PGCertHE Learning and Teaching in Higher Education (Manchester) PGCE Secondary (Drama) (Open University) BA (Hons) Drama and Theatre Studies (Surrey) Wilson's research centers on actor/performer training methodologies , with specialized focus on Theatrical Biomechanics , visual and physical theatre devising practices, circus-theatre hybrids, and human-animal performance dynamics. His work bridges academic rigor with practical application, particularly through his exploration of non-traditional training documentation. As Associate Editor for Theatre, Dance and Performance Training Journal , he champions innovative writing approaches that transcend conventional academic prose. Analysis of his 15 most recent publications reveals a consistent trajectory examining embodied training practices across diverse performance contexts. His work increasingly investigates interspecies performance (particularly equestrian theatre) while maintaining core focus on physical theatre pedagogy. The publications demonstrate interdisciplinary reach spanning circus arts, dance-theatre fusion, and experimental training documentation. Scientific recognition includes: Shortlisted for Society for Theatre Research’s 2016 Book Prize (for Juggling Trajectories: Gandini Juggling 1991-2015 ) Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy Wilson actively shapes performance education through his Programme Director role overseeing student training pathways, while his industry engagement includes serving as Trustee for Curving Road/Theatre Delicatessen (2013-2021) and Educational Advisory Board Member for Accademia Teatro Dimitri (2016-2020). His Gandini Juggling Archive collaboration demonstrates sustained commitment to preserving contemporary circus heritage. Professional activities extend to international partnerships through the Turing scheme and creative exploration via his Associate Artist role with Gandini Juggling (2014-2020), where he contributed to archival projects documenting contemporary circus evolution.
Kevin Landis is a Professor and Director of the Theatre and Dance Program in the Department of Visual and Performing Arts at the University of Colorado Colorado Springs. He holds a Ph.D. in Drama from Tufts University, an M.F.A. in Acting from Brandeis University, and an M.A. in Theatre Theory from Brown University. His research spans avant-garde theatre, actor training methods, and the intersection of performance with food culture and religious practices. Education: Ph.D. in Drama, Tufts University (2009) M.F.A. in Acting, Brandeis University (2005) M.A. in Theatre Theory, Brown University (2001) B.A., Colby College (1998) Landis specializes in physical theatre training, blending techniques from Michael Chekhov, Suzuki, and LeCoq. His work emphasizes the actor’s embodiment and vocal expression. His research interests include Eastern European actor training, Nordic art, and the analysis of evangelical church services as performance. He co-authored Cultural Performance: New Perspectives on Performance Studies and is currently writing a manuscript on the Public Theater’s history. His professional experience includes directing plays such as Hair (2020), Peer Gynt (2018), and Salome (2012), as well as acting roles in productions like The Tempest (2016). He has received accolades including the UCCS Making a Difference Award (2020) and the Tufts University Award for Outstanding Contribution to Undergraduate Education (2008). Awards and Grants: UCCS Making a Difference Award (2020) Roser Visiting Artist Grant (2010) Tufts University Teaching Award (2008) Landis leads initiatives in interdisciplinary performance education and has presented globally, including at the International Federation for Theatre Research in Barcelona and Osaka.
Jerker Westin is an Associate Professor and Senior Lecturer in Computer and Information Science at Dalarna University's School of Information and Engineering. His work focuses on developing sensor-based technologies and computational methods to improve Parkinson's disease management. He specializes in motor state quantification, algorithmic dosing optimization for levodopa treatment, and wearable sensor systems. His research integrates biomedical engineering, computer science, and clinical neuroscience. Notable contributions include devising motion sensor indices for motor fluctuations and creating algorithms for personalized levodopa administration. He collaborates across disciplines to advance telemedicine frameworks and home-based assessment tools for neurodegenerative disorders. Over 70+ publications demonstrate his expertise in sensor systems for movement analysis, pharmacokinetic modeling of levodopa, and digital biomarkers for Parkinson's progression. His work emphasizes translating technical innovations into clinical practice to enhance patient care.
Anna Glarin is a PhD Researcher, Applied Theatre Practitioner, and Creative Producer at York St John University's School of the Arts. She holds a PGCE from London South Bank University and a Master of Applied Theatre from the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama. Her research focuses on the potential of theatre-making with young people, framed as a practice-based reflection inquiry. She co-founded Curious Collective , an organization using creative methods to generate community insight and knowledge. Education and Professional Background: PGCE, London South Bank University Master of Applied Theatre, Royal Central School of Speech and Drama Research Interests: Ms. Glarin's work emphasizes community-based theatre, youth engagement, and participatory methods. She co-leads participatory theatre companies Waterloo Community Theatre and Project Phakama UK (based at Queen Mary University). Her PhD explores youth-driven theatre practices and their societal impact. Teaching and Professional Activities: She supervises BA dissertation students and teaches at Queen Mary University. Beyond academia, she produces community projects like the annual Waterloo Carnival (800+ participants annually) and has presented at conferences on topics like youth voice and creative margins in arts access. Labs/Teams: - Co-founder of Curious Collective - Leadership roles in Waterloo Community Theatre and Project Phakama UK
Joff Chafer is an Assistant Professor in Theatre at Coventry University, specializing in innovative performance practices that bridge physical and virtual spaces. His work explores the integration of digital environments like Second Life with traditional theatre, focusing on interactive pedagogy and cross-platform storytelling. Academic Rank: Assistant Professor Department: Theatre Institution: Coventry University Research interests include: Digital performance and virtual reality applications Collaborative devising across physical and digital mediums Adaptation of classical texts in virtual spaces Interactive educational theatre Intercultural and international artistic partnerships Publication trends highlight a consistent exploration of: Hybrid real/virtual staging techniques Shakespearean and classical adaptations Partnerships with avant-garde companies like Trestle Theatre and Birmingham Contemporary Music Group Long-term collaborations with theatre-makers such as Tom Wilsher and artists from Ukraine and Australia
Samuli Nordberg is a University Lecturer in Communication Sciences and Doctoral Researcher in the Doctoral Programme in Communication, Media and Theatre. His work bridges academic research and artistic practice with international collaborations. Research Focus: Performing arts as tools for exploring trauma, suicide, and emotional extremes Multilingual and cross-cultural performance methodologies Embodied practices in digital/virtual environments Theatre as social commentary on migration and displacement Nordberg's artistic research outputs demonstrate consistent exploration of psychological and social themes through experimental theatre, with recent works examining digital embodiment and migration narratives. Academic Activities: Supervised multiple master's students International conference presentations on sustainable acting practices Consultancy for organizational reflection systems Invited lectures at Association des Rencontres Internationales Artistiques International artistic collaborations across Europe
Professor Michael Pinchbeck is a Professor of Theatre at Manchester School of Theatre, Manchester Metropolitan University, where he has been employed since January 2020. He serves as Senior Research Lead for the Art & Performance Research Hub and co-leads the Performance Research Group. Pinchbeck curates Bunker Talks, a series that invites artists and researchers to talk about geopolitical, ecological or economic concerns through critical encounters, presentations, provocation and dialogue. Since 2020, over 125 talks have been hosted and archived to create an online catalogue capturing how artists think about the world today. His academic background includes: BA Theatre Studies and Creative Writing, Lancaster University MA Performance and Live Art, Nottingham Trent University PhD English and Drama Dept., Loughborough University Fellowship of Higher Education Academy, University of Lincoln Pinchbeck's research focuses on the intersections between dramaturgy and practice-as-research, particularly exploring composed theatre, orchestral theatre, and 'staging scores.' His work investigates musical approaches to dramaturgy and dramaturgical approaches to music, with special interest in performance as commemoration and how theatre remembers. He has developed an extensive body of work around one-to-one performance and is writing 'Brief Encounters: The politics, poetics and ethics of one-to-one performance.' His recent publications and performances form 'The Berger & Mohr Trilogy,' examining performance and photography through adaptations of John Berger's works: 'A Fortunate Man,' 'A Seventh Man,' and 'Another Way of Telling.' His creative works demonstrate innovative approaches across immersive slideshows, audio walks, and site-specific performances that explore migration, healthcare, and visual storytelling. These projects have received significant Arts Council England funding and have been selected multiple times for the British Council's Edinburgh Showcase. His notable recognitions include: Multiple Arts Council England grants totaling over £150,000 for productions including 'Concerto,' 'Solo,' 'A Seventh Man,' and 'Bolero' British Council funding of £75,000 for international touring of 'Bolero' Selection four times for the British Council's Edinburgh Showcase As a supervisor, Pinchbeck has guided PhD research on new writing and dramaturgy, with current supervision focusing on intersections between score theatre and music, and performance and photography. He has received external funding from the North West Consortium Doctoral Training Partnership for a PhD project exploring the Greenroom archive. His leadership extends to external examiner roles at Central Saint Martins, University of Leeds, Leeds Beckett University, and Sheffield Hallam University. Pinchbeck co-founded Metro-Boulot Dodo Theatre Company in 1997 and has been creating and touring performance work for over 25 years as a theatre-maker and dramaturg. His collaborative practice includes work with companies such as Reckless Sleepers, Third Angel, and Strange Names Collective, as well as international partnerships through COIL projects with San Jose State University and Nanyang Technological University (Singapore).
Dr. Shane Pike is a Senior Lecturer in Drama at the School of Creative Arts, Queensland University of Technology. His research bridges creativity and technology, with applications in health, commercial, and performance contexts. He serves as Chief Investigator on the $280,000 ARC Linkage project 'Advancing Digital Innovation in The Australian Live Performance Sector' and collaborates with cultural institutions like Sydney Theatre Company and Meta. Education PhD in Performing Arts (Directing) - Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice - Australian National University LLB - Australian National University BA (Drama Hons. First Class) - Australian National University BCA (Theatre) - University of Tasmania Research Focus Dr. Pike's work centers on emerging technologies in creative practice: Augmented/Virtual Reality applications in live performance AI-enhanced creative processes with commercial/clinical applications Digital dramaturgy and creative leadership frameworks Theatre-based therapeutic interventions for health contexts His research has secured over $400,000 in competitive funding including ARC, IHBI, and Arts Queensland grants. Publication Trends Recent publications (2020-2026) demonstrate strong focus on: Digital performance innovations (AR/VR/AI integration) Pandemic-era creative adaptations (Zoom-based pedagogy/performance) Cultural diversity in Australian dramaturgy Interdisciplinary approaches combining arts, technology and health Awards & Recognition Dr Don Batchelor Award for innovation in live performance (twice) Edith Cowan University Research Excellence Award Senior Fellow of Higher Education Academy IHBI Synergy Project Grant ($22,500) Queensland Arts Showcase Program Grant Supervision & Grants Current supervision includes MPhil and PhD projects on nonverbal communication in actor training and Australian female bushrangers storytelling. Major grants include: ARC Linkage: $280,000 for digital innovation in live performance Creative Sparks Grant: $10,000 for 'Alex' holographic production Meta/Queensland Health collaborations: $100k+ for VR healthcare projects Labs & Collaborations As Design Lab investigator, Dr. Pike develops immersive experiences with Queensland Corrective Services and aged care facilities. He maintains ongoing collaboration with Brazil's Taanteatro Companhia, employing their Theatre of Tensions methodology in practice and teaching.
