Patricia Helsel
Associate Editor, Michigan
Professor of Theatre, Michigan Technological University
Contributions to
IDEA:
Text Files
Audio Files
Bio:
Patricia Helsel, Assistant Professor of Theatre, Michigan Technological University, is head of the new degree program in Theatre and Electronic Media Performance. As Voice and Dialect Coach for the Visual and Performing Arts Department, she recently created a pronunciation guide and set of practice recordings for a contrived language (“Ptydepe”) in Vaclav Havel’s The Memorandum. She is particularly fond of dialects, having been inspired, at an early age, by a demanding high school drama teacher who insisted she rid herself of her South Philly accent for her role in The Skin of Our Teeth. Patricia has a Master of Fine Arts degree in Acting and Directing from Minnesota State University – Mankato, and a B.A. degree in Theatre and Music from Elmira College. Patricia has taught Acting, Vocal Production, Articulation, Dialects, Musical Theatre, Introduction to Theatre, Public Speaking, and Oral Interpretation at Utah State University, The University of Louisiana at Monroe, Northwestern State University (LA), and The Louisiana School for Math, Science, and the Arts. Her professional work includes directing and performance (stage, radio, T.V.). She was the Artistic Director for the Clinton Area Showboat Theatre, Director and Youth Program Coordinator for Robidoux Resident Theatre, Guest Director for Okoboji Summer Theatre, Director for Northern Utah Theatre Society, and Director/Educator for the Unicorn Children’s Theatre. Patricia is a new member of the Voice and Speech Trainers Association.
Faculty Web Page:
http://www.vpa.mtu.edu/people/helsel.htm