Lecture by Ida Beam Distinguished Visiting Professor Tawnya Pettiford-Wates

The Department of Theatre Arts hosts Ida Beam Distinguished Professor Dr. Tawnya Pettiford-Wates, giving her lecture titled “From Shakespeare to Shange.” 

Every artist must question who they are. But for an artist in the performing arts, especially for an artist of color, that question cannot be ignored—not by the student artist, the professional artist or the teachers and professors that teach them, mentor them and ultimately evaluate them. This lecture draws from Tawnya Pettiford-Wates’ personal experiences, and includes an overview of the specific methodology she developed over the years to facilitate the journey towards self-actualization and self-determination for the creative and performing artist. 

During her time on campus Aug. 28–Sept. 2, accompanied by her colleague, Olisa Enrico, Dr. Pettiford-Wates will also work with the cast of the fall Theatre Arts production of Macbeth, visit classes, and lead a workshop with Dream City Community Center.

The Ida Cordelia Beam Distinguished Visiting Professorships Program was established in 1978-79 with the income from a bequest to the University by the late Ida Cordelia Beam of Vinton.

Past visits by distinguished teachers and scholars from the United States and abroad greatly enrich our instructional and research programs. The Ida Cordelia Beam visiting professorships are a source of intellectual stimulation for students and faculty and provide an opportunity to bring new perspectives in knowledge and teaching to our campus.