Pop/Rock Performance Students Participate in Virtual Midterm Showcase with Expert Panel

Students in THTR 356: Pop/Rock Performance, taught by adjunct instructor and alumna MaryAnne Piccolo ’05 with Music Director Elliot Roth, submitted self-tape videos of singing auditions for their midterm projects. They were then joined via Zoom by a panel of industry professionals for feedback on their virtual auditions and an industry Q&A.

In Pop/Rock Performance, students study the history and progression of Pop, Rock, and R&B music ranging from the 1950s through today’s popular artists, exploring how current events, social status, and cultural acceptances actively affect storytelling through song. For their midterm assignment, each student recorded a two-minute long self-tape audition performing a favorite pop/rock piece.

The class then gathered on Zoom to view and critique the videos. They were joined by a panel of guest experts, who provided professional feedback for each student and then led an interactive Q&A to equip students with information and tips about preparing for careers in the industry.

The panel was comprised of a star lineup, including:

  • Katie Proctor, Casting Director at RWS Casting 
  • Rex Lott and Shawn McLaughlin of Rex Lott Photography, headshot and self-tape gurus
  • Randy Blair, actor and writer whose credits include Broadway’s Amelie, Gigantic (The Vineyard), and The untitled B52’s musical project
  • Justin Gregory Lopez, actor and vocalist whose credits include NBC’s Jesus Christ Superstar and Octet (The Signature Theatre)

Check out the student video auditions here.

Published: April 08, 2020