Author

Joseph Gay

Date of Graduation

2018

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Type

MFA

College

College of Creative Arts

Department

Acting and Directing

Committee Chair

Jessica Morgan Bishop

Committee Co-Chair

Laura Hitt

Committee Member

Jules Malarcher

Committee Member

Alan McEwen

Abstract

Through the course of this thesis, I will examine the historical context of John Wilkes Booth and his assassination of President Abraham Lincoln as it is related to my performance of the character of Booth in the musical Assassins by Stephen Sondheim and John Weidman. Additionally, how the development of this character changed me as a performer, and created substantial growth as a professional. This historical examination of Booth, as well as the examination of text and music, will shed light on how this role came at a crucial point in my training at WVU. Included will be a comprehensive review of the use of training in voice, body, and acting that I received during my time at WVU, and how this training will remain invaluable throughout my career.

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