Tony Award Nominated Actress Will Present Audition Workshop

The division of performing arts at DeSales University is pleased to announce that Broadway actress Emily Skinner will appear on campus on Thursday, October 20, 2016 to present a master class/performance on “Auditioning for Musical Theatre” from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. in the Schubert Theatre of the Labuda Center for the Performing Arts. Ms. Skinner’s appearance has been made possible through the generous support of the DeSales University Arts Angels.

“Because of the generous Angels, with great frequency, we are able to bring industry professional to campus to work with our students. I was delighted when Ms. Skinner accepted our invitation,” says John Bell, head of the division of performing arts.

EMILY SKINNER has unequivocally established herself as one of Broadway's most engaging and versatile performers. Last fall, Emily had the honor of originating a role in Hal Prince’s new musical Prince of Broadway in Japan. She last appeared on Broadway starring in the acclaimed musical Billy Elliot. Emily was nominated for a Tony Award (along with Alice Ripley) and received a Drama League Award for her performance as Daisy Hilton in the brilliant but short-lived Side Show. Other original Broadway cast credits include Jekyll & Hyde, James Joyce's The Dead, and The Full Monty.

“When Emily and I discussed her visit, I raised the possibility of her talking about all the great audition tips she has developed over the years and suggested that she might sing from her audition book to illuminate her points,” say Bell. “She loved the idea and that’s what she’s planning to do. I think this will be a unique, interesting, and entertaining way for our students to learn the tricks of the trade from a working professional,”

In addition, musical theatre students from the other universities in the Lehigh Valley Association of Independent Colleges consortium as well as the Charter High School for the Performing Arts have been invited. “This is a great way to expand the generosity of the DeSales angels to a wider reach of students throughout the region,” said Bell.

DeSales faculty music instructor, Mr. Jeff McDonnell, will accompany Ms. Skinner on piano.

From Left to Right: Father Bernard O’Connor, OSFS, president of DeSales University, Head Coach Rachel Turoscy, Andrea Artesani, Hailey Warner, Adrianna Barone, Graduate Assistant Samantha Gibson, Shannon McCann, Mary McGettigan (center)

Mary McGettigan poses with Father Bernard O’Connor, OSFS, president of DeSales University, Head Coach Rachel Turoscy, and members of the DeSales women’s softball team at the future site of the Mary A. & Frances R. McGettigan Softball Park. McGettigan, a retired teacher and community volunteer, contributed to the park in her sister’s memory. In 2012, she received the DeSales Medal, the University’s highest non-academic award. 

November 8, 2016 is fast approaching. Are you ready to exercise your civic duty and VOTE? If not take a look at our new Help Resource on the voting process. Get information on the candidates running in your district and the questions that may be on your ballot.

First time voter? You can also get a look at what kind of voting machines your polling place uses? Polling place? Don’t know where to go to cast your ballot? You can also find that information here.

Take a look and get ready to vote.
http://desales.libguides.com/election2016

Emerging Choreographers Concert Features Slate of World Premiere Dances

The Dance Department at DeSales University opens the 2016-2017 dance season with “Illuminate: The Emerging Choreographers Concert,” a premiere program of new dances in which student choreographers explore creative ways of capturing the essence of illumination through physical action and choreographic research.    

Under the artistic direction of dance faculty member Angela Sigley Grossman, the division of performing arts at DeSales University is pleased to celebrate the opening of the Dance Department’s 34^th season with this annual concert showcasing our emerging student choreographers.  From the choreography to the performers, designers and student managers, the concert is entirely student-run   The Emerging Choreographers Concert is slated for four performances in the intimate Schubert Theatre in the Labuda Center for the Performing Arts on the DeSales campus from November 4 to 6, 2016.

“Our Emerging Choreographer’s Concert is a perfect way to launch the dance season since it shines the spotlight entirely on our dance majors.  In this concert, our audience get witness our talented student choreographers’ first real efforts in defining their artistic voices” says John Bell, head of the division of performing arts.   Artistic Director Angela Sigley Grossman notes that “Prospective choreographers propose a piece that relates to the selected theme to the graduating senior class which then reviews and curates what is always a diverse slate of new dance works.”  And since the concert is presented in the 200-seat Schubert Theatre, the choreographers must confront the “unique challenge of composing works for audiences on three sides of the stage” says Sigley Grossman.

The program features seven world premier dances in genre as diverse as contemporary ballet, tap and modern dance.  

Mariette Aungst’s In/Tension investigates the embodiment of emotional intimacy in a relationship, exploring human connection and disconnection through intricate and daring partnering and dynamic movement.  Samantha Burns’ Contrapasso is a dynamic modern piece inspired by Dante's Inferno. The performers take the audience on a journey through movement, complete with explosive phrasing, sweeping floorwork, and powerful intention. Tactile, evocative, aggressive, and hard-hitting, Contrapasso is designed to enthrall viewers from start to finish.

Noelle Cybulski’s I wouldn’t trade you for anyone uses pedestrian and light-hearted movement to explore relationships among a group of entertaining people.  Sarah Duffany’s

Aube a la Nuit is a contemporary ballet piece that reflects the power of hope in the midst of dark and troubling times. The embers of hope seem to fade away when shadows and doubts are swirling in sight. With sharp, elegant, and soft movements, the dancers will captivate the hearts of all who have experienced moments of doubt in their lives, and have found themselves filled with a restoration of hope. This newfound hope, through movement, in turn, elevates the beauty and power of the human spirit. 

Madison McCadden’s We Will Follow is a modern dance work bursting with energy featuring soaring lifts, smooth partnering and intricate shapes that the dancers weave through into exciting movement phrases.  Kaitlyn Miller’s Rhythmic Reunion is a powerful, high-energy tap dance trio featuring quick and fiery footwork.

Through organic movement, poetry and dialogue, Cailin Sweeney’s Enigma explores themes of isolation and ephemerality in the compelling journeys of four individuals as they pass in and out of one another’s lives.

Performances are Friday, November 4 at 8 p.m., Saturday, November 5 at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m., and Sunday, November 8 at 2:00 p.m. and take place in the Schubert Theatre in the Labuda Center for the Performing Arts on the DeSales University campus.  Tickets are $15 for adults and $12 for students and seniors Tickets are available by calling the Labuda box office at 610.282.3192 or online at www.desales.edu/act1.

The Labuda Center is fully accessible and equipped with a listening enhancement system. Special seating is available for our patrons using wheelchairs or requiring other assistance. Please inform the box office of your needs when ordering tickets.

Based on Earl Hamner Jr.’s classic novel that inspired “The Waltons”

Act 1 DeSales University Theatre continues its 47th season with Earl Hamner Jr.’s heartwarming classic, “The Homecoming: A Christmas Story.” This time-honored tale runs November 30 to December 11, 2016 on the Main Stage of the Labuda Center for the Performing Arts, Center Valley, PA.

 “The Homecoming” takes place against the backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, during the Great Depression. It is Christmas Eve and, as a snowstorm thrashes the land, the father of a poor household is late returning from work. Back at home his family begins to worry when their beloved father fails to show. As the hours tick by the prospect of the family patriarch’s safe arrival dwindles. At the request of his mother, the eldest son sets out to brave the storm and find his father. Throughout his journey the son meets various townsfolk who show him the great influence his father has had on the community. This inspiring Christmas story affirms the fact that love is bright enough to weather the darkest blizzard. “The Homecoming is ultimately about family and healing during tough times,” says Performing Arts Division Head John Bell. “It resonates deeply in today’s troubled world. A story about family strength and hopeful optimism is as much in demand today as ever—perhaps more so!”

Earl Hamner Jr. was born in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in which he based his greatest works. Like the play’s protagonist, Hamner was raised in a large, close-knit family during the Great Depression and experienced a desire to write from a young age. He eventually attended the University of Cincinnati and earned his BFA in broadcasting. From Cincinnati, Hamner made his way through New York City and Los Angeles, working on a variety of projects including “The Today Show,” “The Twilight Zone,” and his own creation, “Falcon Crest.” However, his crowning jewel will always be “The Waltons,” on which “The Homecoming” is based.

The simple American masterpiece that is “The Waltons” began in 1970, when Hamner’s novel “The Homecoming" was picked up by Lorimar Productions and became a CBS Christmas special. The television special became so popular that Warner Bros. Studios and Lorimar Productions used it as a series pilot to establish Hamner’s classic American drama “The Waltons," an instant hit enjoying widespread success in homes and hearts across America. “The movie has become an endearing holiday favorite to legions of fans over the years,” adds Bell. “We are excited to offer the regional premiere of the stage version of the story.” 

“The Homecoming: A Christmas Story” is directed by associate professor of theatre Anne Lewis. Of the play she says, “‘The Homecoming’ shows that family life is a struggle, but when it’s based in love there’s a lot of positive things that can come out of the struggles. It’s worth exposing people to it, especially at this time of year, because it gives them something to be positive about. It’s a testimony to the human spirit.”

“The Homecoming” is brought to life with sets and costumes by Act 1’s resident creative faculty team: scenic designer Will Neuert, costume designer Amy Best, and lighting and sound designer Elizabeth Elliott.

The production runs November 30 to December 11, 2016 on the Main Stage of the Labuda Center for the Performing Arts. Performances are Wednesdays through Saturdays at 8:00 PM and Sundays at 2:00 PM. There is a morning matinee on Tuesday, December 6 at 9:45 AM, followed by a talk back with the director and cast. A talk back is also scheduled for Sunday, December 4 after the 2:00 PM performance.

In an effort to improve accessibility for all patrons, the Saturday, December 3, 2:00 PM matinee performance will feature Open Captioning for patrons who are deaf or hearing impaired and Audio Descriptions for patrons who are blind or visually impaired. During Open Captioned performances, all dialogue and sound effects are presented in real-time on an LED screen that is adjacent to the stage. During Audio Described performances, all action and physical appearances are described live through a headset. Tickets are half price for patrons using these special services on this date. Please call box office manager Catherine Logan at 610-282-3654, ext. 1 for more information.

On Saturday, December 4 at 5:30, join director of development Deb Walter as she welcomes resident costume designer Amy Best during “Dinner with Amy and Deb.” Best will share research and her creative process and take the attendees on a virtual tour of the costume shop. You'll pick up some tips you can use at home. The cost is $29 and includes a full bar and four-course “Walton’s” themed dinner.

Ticket prices are $28 for adults and $27 for students and seniors on Wednesdays and Thursdays, and $30 for adults and $29 for students and seniors on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Group discounts are available for all performances. Tickets may be purchased by calling the Labuda Center box office at 610-282-3192 or by visiting the web site at www.desales.edu/act1.

The Labuda Center is fully accessible and equipped with a listening enhancement system. Special seating is available for our patrons using wheelchairs or requiring other assistance. Please inform the box office of your needs when ordering tickets.

More than 200 people took a chilling look inside the minds of serial killers at this year’s DeSales University Forensic Forum. Katherine Ramsland, Martha Elliott, and Anthony Meoli shared their experiences and expertise during Interviews with Serial Killers on Wednesday, October 12.

 Ramsland, professor of psychology and director of the Master of Arts in Criminal Justice Program, kicked off the discussion by focusing on BTK killer Dennis Rader. Ramsland spent five years working closely with Rader on her new book, Confession of a Serial Killer: The Untold Story of Dennis Rader, the BTK Killer.

 “He was a predator, he was a stalker, he's the ultimate boogeyman waiting there in your house,” she said. Rader killed 10 people, including two children, between 1974 and 1991 in the Wichita, Kansas area. He wasn’t arrested until 2005 and, according to Ramsland, would have gotten away with his crimes had he not started playing a cat-and-mouse game with police and the media.  

Ramsland told the audience the goal of her book was not to give Rader a platform, but to benefit criminology, psychology, law enforcement, and the victims. “My book was about mining into not just what he said but how he said certain things and the blind spots in his life,” she said. 

Martha Elliott, an award-winning journalist and author of The Man in the Monster, gave the audience a different perspective, describing her 10-year relationship with serial killer Michael Ross. “I am the least likely person in the world to have written about a serial killer,” she began. “I cannot watch a scary movie; I do not like violence. I just had no interest in serial killers whatsoever.”

That all changed with Ross, who raped and murdered eight young women in the early 1980s. Elliott worked for a newspaper in Connecticut when his death sentences were overturned. But, Ross still wanted to die, claiming he wanted to spare his victims’ families any more pain. “I, in effect, invited this serial killer into my life,” Elliott said. “I was so afraid of him in the beginning. He was everything I feared: walking down a road, being randomly selected. There was nothing you could do to protect yourself from him.”

Yet, she felt sorry for him and the two ended up talking once or twice a week for the next 10 years. She described it as a type of community service. “He was this lonely man about to face death. It didn't take much of my time or effort to talk to him.” 

According to Elliott, Ross was obsessed with trying to understand how he had become a serial killer. So she set out to help him. “My book is about both finding out about his life and also intertwining that with the conversations that we had,” she said. When Ross was executed in 2005, Elliott was there with him.  

Anthony Meoli, co-author of Diary of the D.C. Sniper, focused on early predictors of violence. Meoli has talked with more than 140 serial killers and murderers. His interest began in 1992, when one of his best friends was brutally murdered. It then became his life’s mission to try to figure out why people do what they do.

In his experience, Meoli found four factors that resonated with inmates. They had all experienced abuse, neglect, abandonment, and self-hatred/anger. “These children are often rejected and never feel a loving or meaningful relationship,” he said. “When they face life's obstacles, they tend to fail at them. This becomes a consistent part of their lives where they cannot overcome life's simple obstacles.”

Meoli spent years developing relationships with killers, including D.C. sniper Lee Boyd Malvo. He played chilling audiotapes from Malvo, Charles Manson, and Phillip Carl Jablonski. In one of those tapes, Jablonski shared in graphic detail how he killed five people, including two of his wives, and mutilated two of his other victims. He went on to tell Meoli he had no remorse and sleeps like a baby at night.

Meoli stressed that the early predictors of violence do not explain every single serial killer. But they do help to explain who they are. “Violence is largely learned through repetition,” he said. “It's what we see.” He urged the audience to do its part to make sure children are protected. “We all have a responsibility in that. The warning signs are there.”

After sharing their stories, Ramsland, Elliott, and Meoli took questions from the audience. They reinforced the idea that there is no formula or genetic makeup for how a person becomes a serial killer or mass murderer. “There is not any kind of physical pattern or blueprint,” Ramsland said. Added Meoli, “I don't believe in the born evil theory.” 

The DeSales Forensic Forum, which is sponsored by the DeSales Criminal Justice Program, has been an ongoing community educational resource since 2001. It’s offered twice a year. A spring forum is in place and will feature an undercover agent.

We are sad to report that early Sunday morning at approximately 1am the DeSales University Police department in conjunction with the Upper Saucon Police department investigated a report of an aggravated assault in a dorm room on campus. It was determined an assault did take place and one suspect was taken into custody. Criminal charges have been filed against an individual who is in police custody and there is no danger to the DeSales community.