Educational affiliates have at least two faculty members who are certified as course instructors. At UCF, professor Steven R. Chicurel is a certified course instructor and assistant professor Tara Snyder is a certified master teacher. 

The training program helps singers and speakers find a full range of expression in their voices, while promoting healthy vocal habits. The program was formalized in 1988 by Jo Estill, a classical opera singer who went on to research voice science.

 “Students of Estill Voice Training Systems succeed because they learn about identifying problems in singing and speaking and then come up with efficient and permanent ‘fixes,’” Chicurel said. “Estill Voice Training provides a unique delivery system at the university level. Unlike traditional voice programs in music and theatre, where weekly private lessons are the norm from the first semester onward, students at UCF take the first two semesters of voice as a class.” 

The University has joined Motherwell College in Scotland and Mars Hill College in North Carolina as educational affiliates.

The cast comprises UCF faculty members, graduate students, and undergraduate students. The blend is not unusual for Theatre ��AV productions, but is working exceptionally well for this production, says Be Boyd, UCF associate professor and director of Deathtrap.

“It has been a very interesting group to direct and observe. We have a unique mixture in the cast that actually reflects the composition of a professional company. We have a cast composed of actors who are experienced major players and actors who will be the next generation of leading players. The company functions as if they have been working and playing together for years. There is a generosity of spirit and playful energy among the group that has been refreshing to watch.”

Tara Snyder is an assistant professor in the Theatre Department and is playing the role of Helga Ten Dorp in Deathtrap.

“When I was in graduate school I had the privilege of working on a production with one of my professors. It has been wonderful to be on the other side of the table with �ٱ𲹳ٳ�ٰ�����,” she said.

“I have found our students to not only be professional, but extremely collegial. Whether we are working on a scene or having a cast lunch during a break in rehearsal, we are equals. However when I shift back into a position of authority, for instance when I give notes as the show’s fight captain, they make the appropriate attention shift. It’s really a testament to them that they are immediately putting their training to work in a ‘professional’ setting.”

The 1978 play by the author of Rosemary’s Baby holds the record for the longest running thriller on Broadway. It received a Tony Award nomination for Best Play when it premiered and has been adapted into a film.

“Whether you are seeing the play for the first time or whether you are familiar with the story, you will enjoy watching the way the mystery unfolds, the richness of the language and the freshness of the characters,” said Boyd.

“Levin was masterful at creating parallel stories that overlap in unique and clever ways,” she said. “If you love a good plot twist, appreciate a great wordsmith, are fond of suspense, or have a keen sense of humor, you’ll enjoy Deathtrap.”

Theatre ��AV is on the UCF campus near the intersection of University Boulevard and Alafaya Trail in east Orlando. Performances begin at 8 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, and at 2 p.m. on Sundays.

To purchase tickets or for ticket information call the box office at 407-823-1500. Standard tickets are $17 ($15 for seniors; $10 for students) and group rates are available. It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance, available through the Theatre UCF box office. UCF offers accommodations to make the theatre more accessible to patrons with disabilities; for assistance, call the box office in advance.

Production at a glance:

Deathtrap

By Ira Levin

Directed by Be Boyd

June 21, 22, 23 28, 29, 30 at 8 p.m.

June 24, July 1 at 2 p.m.

Main Stage Theatre

Price: Standard $17, Senior $15, Student $10; Group discounts available

Address: 4000 Central Florida Boulevard, Orlando FL 32816

Box Office Phone: 407-823-1500

Box Office Hours: Tuesday through Friday,  noon to 5 p.m., and 2 hours before performances

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