"Performing Pain" Student Workshops

Description

This two-part session explores the complex role of pain in performance, examining its physical, emotional, and symbolic dimensions across multiple disciplines.

The morning begins with a panel discussion (9:30–10:00 AM), moderated by Matthew Campbell, featuring perspectives from professionals who navigate the staging of pain in their work:

• Houston Carson (Wrestling)

• Kat Rothman (Intimacy Coordination)

• Andrew Roblyer (Fight Choreography)

Together, they will discuss the craft of simulating pain in ways that are safe, authentic, and ethically grounded, while reflecting on how audiences interpret and respond to these performances.

Following the panel, students are invited to a hands-on workshop (10:00–11:20 AM) led by the same experts. This interactive session offers participants the chance to explore techniques in wrestling, intimacy coordination, and fight choreography, while considering the creative and ethical choices involved in representing pain on stage and screen. Houston Carson's Workshop

Houston Carson is a professional wrestling coach who teaches the core fundamentals and psychology of sports entertainment. I help performers create the intensity and feel of a real fight while keeping audiences hooked through strong storytelling. Safety and technique are always a priority, so athletes can protect each other while still delivering powerful, memorable performances. Kat Rothman's Workshop

Take part in an interactive workshop on intimacy directing, where you'll learn about approaches for creating safe and respectful environments for intimate scenes and physical contact in performance. Through gentle practice, we’ll explore techniques for communication, consent, and boundaries, and provide you with some basic tools to collaborate confidently while prioritizing emotional and physical well-being for yourself and your collaborators on stage and screen.

To reserve your spot, please RSVP as soon as possible.