Fall 2021, my first semester of graduate school, is rapidly coming to a close. Final projects and assignments are wrapping up in the coming weeks, and I suppose that means it’s time to reflect on all that I’ve learned! Honestly, it’s hard to believe that it has already been (almost) a full semester! This semester, I took three classes: playscript analysis, acting and directing, and design and production. Each have taught me loads in such a short amount of time! In playscript analysis, I learned how to properly analyze a script (wow, what a shocker!). I learned about the many different elements one can use when analyzing a script (given circumstances, tempo, dialogue, etc.) as well as how to apply them and use them in your own work as well as how to use them to discuss your work with fellow artists. In acting and directing, I learned about may of “The Great’s” acting methods (Stanislavski, Bogart, and Meisner just to name a few) and discussed and pondered how to implement them in our classrooms as well as personal work lives. In design and production, I have learned about the many different components of the different types of design (lighting, scenic, costume, etc.). I have also learn how to use them in my own work as well as teach these skills to others in the classroom. As I am starting a brand new drama club at my school this year, I am excited to use all that I have learned to educate my students who are eager to play and learn in an all new way! Overall, I have and will continue to learn so many new things over the final few weeks of the semester as well as throughout the rest of my degree. I am so thankful to be a part of this graduate program and to be able to further my understanding of the field I love so dearly! Cheers to many more great semesters to come at MUW!
Taylor Meng Wingate 