School Notes: David Geffen School of Drama
March/April 2009

Theater management professional named associate dean

Joan Channick ’89MFA, former managing director of New Haven's Long Wharf Theatre and a part-time lecturer in the School of Drama, became associate dean on February 1. In her new position Channick will participate in planning and management, from recruiting and financial aid to professional development and postgraduate placement. Channick's career in theater management has spanned two decades in New Haven, New York, and Baltimore; prior to that she practiced law in Boston. Her class at Yale School of Drama has focused on legal issues in the arts.

Dean honored as artistic groundbreaker

James Bundy ’95MFA, dean of the School of Drama and artistic director of the Yale Repertory Theatre, is among five individuals and organizations recently honored by the Arts Council of Greater New Haven with a 2008 Arts Award. These awards are given to those whose "fresh, raw ideas spur innovative programs, unleash remarkable results, and foster a lively, ambitious artistic community."

In its citation the council notes Bundy's "exemplary support to his students and new playwrights" and his "commitment to highlighting bold, illuminating work," as well as his "advocacy on behalf of education programs" and his "ambitious artistic vision," which "have had an immeasurable impact on his students, colleagues, audiences, and friends."

Yale Rep accessibility director recognized for services to visually impaired

The Connecticut Board of Education and Services for the Blind has presented its 2008 Raymond E. Baldwin Award to Ruth M. Feldman, director of education and accessibility services at Yale Repertory Theatre. The Baldwin Award, established in 1983, recognizes an individual, civic organization, or volunteer group for outstanding contributions made for the betterment and enrichment of the lives of visually impaired and blind persons in Connecticut.

Yale Repertory Theatre offers all patrons the most comprehensive accessibility services program in Connecticut, including a full season of open-captioned and audio-described performances; a free assistive listening system; large print and Braille programs; a direct TTY line to Yale Rep's box office; and wheelchair accessibility and accessible seating in each of its three theaters.

Ruth Feldman joined Yale Repertory Theatre in 2003 and is responsible for its accessibility services program, along with a number of educational projects. She is a founding member of the national Audio Description Coalition and trains and mentors audio describers.