Encore: Jeanine Thompson
Associate Professor
(Profile)

Current Research and Creative Activity

Jeanine Thompson spent the summer of 2001 writing a script for a new movement theatre project entitled Uncommon Clay. This was a 90 minute work created through the process of collaboration with my assistant director, design team and 18 member ensemble. The piece was about the life and work of the French Sculptress, Camille Claudel, 1864-1943. We did a workshop showing of the work during Spring quarter of 2001 and we produced the finished work during Fall quarter 2001. This was the most challenging project I had ever overseen. The production elements were immense, so was the size of the cast, and their inquisitive natures and questions. I couldn't have done it without every person involved.

Winter quarter brought our Voice Search which I chaired. We brought in a remarkable group of individuals. It was a very difficult choice, however each person would have been excellent for one reason or another. I also organized our third residency with Anne Bogart and the SITI company. This was another very successful and inspiring training session and it ran in conjunction with the debut performance of their new work Score.

Spring quarter brought yet another challenge for me - performing the role of Charlene in Paula Vogel's Hot 'n Throbbing. I had not taken on a role in a traditional play with this degree of text and responsibility for the action of the show, in many years, if ever! When I told Anne Bogart, she directed the debut performance of the play, that I was performing that role she said, "Really? That is a very challenging role! Good luck! And let me know how it goes." It went very well. In fact it was a great experience. I sensed myself as having grown a great deal as an artist and it was terrific to be connected with my community again by acting with the Red Herring Theatre Ensemble under the direction of Maureen Ryan. It was such a treat to just be an actor again standing in front of a remarkable director ready to give back whatever they ask for me to do. What a treat.

And now I am on to one to the biggest productions of my lifetime - my wedding! I am getting married this summer! So that's what I'm doing over this summer vacation. I'll give you more up-dates next year. See ya!

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