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Justina Taft Mattos

e-mail: justinamattos@gmail.com

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Education

•     Ph.D.                       Theatre Arts, University of Hawai'i at Mānoa.                                                            2002

                                                (dissertation: The Development of Hawai‘i’s Kumu Kahua Theatre

                                                 and its Core Repertory: the“Local” Plays of Sakamoto, Lum and Kneubuhl)

•     M.A.                       Theatre, University of Oregon                                                                                1993

                                                (thesis: Theatre as an Educational Tool: Three Examples from Latino/Latina,

                                                African American and Native American Cultures)

•     B.A. with honors       Liberal Studies - Theatre Emphasis, University of Hawai'i at Hilo                                1990

•     Certificate                Hawaiian Culture, University of Hawai'i at Hilo  (3 years of Hawaiian Language)           1989

Teaching Experience

Introduction to Theatre                                                            University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo                               2003, 2014, 2017-present

An introductory course designed to give students a basic understanding of the roles of the many artists who collaborate to bring a work to the stage. In addition to in-class lectures, students use their textbook and on-line sources to learn the principles of theatre, and apply this knowledge to plays that are read and discussed for class. Taught in both face-to-face and in entirely online formats.

Beginning Acting                                                                     University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo                              2014, 2017-present

An introductory level course involving individual exercises and group activities that emphasize voice, movement and relaxation through improvisations, monologue performances and presentation of two-person scenes. Includes play analysis and character analysis as students apply what they learn in class to plays that are considered for presentation.

Playwriting.                                                                             University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo                                2013-present

An upper-division writing intensive course cross-listed under the English and Performing Arts Departments.  Guides students through the process of writing a series of dramatic works for the stage, culminating in a one-act play that is given a staged reading.

Acting Troupe                                                                         University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo                                2018-present

Rehearsal and performance of works from Western literature and ethnic non-Western sources, including period drama, avant- garde theatre, and the contemporary drama of Hawai’i and the Pacific. Emphasis on ensemble performance. Refinement of individual skill and group interactions acquired in acting classes. Public performance required.

Directing                                                                                 University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo                                2018-present

Basic practical course in how to direct a play. Students direct one-act plays or scenes from full length plays for public performance.

Acting Styles                                                                         University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo                                 2021

Advanced study for actors who have completed Beginning Acting. Concentrated scene work, script analysis, character development, and style study. Comparative exercises in acting for the stage and camera. Performance of workshop material. Students explore performance styles including: Classical Greek, Commedia dell’arte, Shakespeare, Restoration Era, the isms, Melodrama, and Theatre for Young Audiences.

                                        

Modern/Contemporary Drama                                               University of Hawai'i at Hilo                                2020

A study of works that have established or refined major traditions in modern and contemporary theatre, with some reading in critical theory. Course is conducted entirely online.

Acting II                                                                                  University of Hawai'i at Hilo                                2020

Continuing and building upon the techniques learned in Acting I. Focus is on the ensemble, as students work intensively with upper-division directing students on scenes and one-act plays to be shared with the public.
 

Drama in Education                                                                 University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo                              2019

Using a combination of “book learning” and “hands-on learning,” students explore child/youth development stages, classroom management, the multi-ethnic cultures of Hawaiʻi, curriculum standards, and how to use drama as an educational tool. They practice leading workshops in our classroom, then demonstrate their knowledge by delivering workshops for preschool through 12th grade students at local schools.

Lyric Theatre + Lab                                                                  University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo                              2019

An overview of the history, theory, and practice of American Musical Theatre. Textbook readings and viewings of selected musicals provide the basis for classroom discussions on theme and historical context. A lab component provides experience in singing techniques and a variety of musical theatre dance forms, culminating in a final performance of a song and dance from a musical play.

Literature of Hawaiʻi                                                               University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo                                2015-2018

An overview of selected written works by, for, and about the people of Hawaiʻi. Explores the social history of the islands through poems/mele, short stories, novels, and plays, examining how Hawaiʻiʻs literature reflects upon major social shifts since the late 1700s including the influx of western influences, 19th century resistance to colonization, the plantation era, the rise of cultural commodification, and the Hawaiian renaissance.

Pacific Islands Literature                                                        University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo                                2016-2018

An overview of selected written works by, for, and about the people of Oceania. Explores the social history of the Pacific islands through poems, short stories, novels, and plays, examining how the literature reflects upon major social issues such as colonization, migration, globalization, economic influences, as well as changes in education and political systems.

Public Speaking                                                                     University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo                                2003-2004, 2010-2017

An introductory course providing students with the skills and the confidence necessary to communicate effectively in a variety of situations.Includes practice with informative, demonstrative, impromptu, persuasive, and ceremonial speeches.

Literary Genres: Short Story & Novel                                    University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo                                2016

A writing-intensive course providing a basis for understanding the fiction we read for entertainment and escape, as well as a        foundation for critical thinking and analytical writing about literary texts. Focuses on the genres of short stories and novels.

English 100: Basic Composition                                            University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo                                2015-2016

An introductory course in expository writing offering instruction and practice in writing clear, effective university-level essays and research papers. Attention paid to all stages of the writing process: generating ideas, drafting, revising, and editing.  Classes consisted of lectures, individual and group work, discussion, and peer editing/critiques.

Hawaiʻi on Screen                                                                   University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo                               2015

A critical overview of the works that represent Hawaiʻi on television and in the movies. Explores the social history of the islands focusing on cultural, racial and

gendered representations in mainstream cinema as well as the contemporary emergence of local and indigenous filmmaking.

Performance Education                                                           University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo                               2012-2014

An upper-division course cross-listed under the Communications and Performing Arts Departments.  Guides students through the process of researching, writing, rehearsing and performing presentations for the public in a Museum Theatre setting.  Both individual and collaborative projects are involved. Previously taught as COM/DRAM 398 experimental course.

Advanced Theatre Practicum                                                 University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo                                Spring 2011

A project-based course where students gained hands-on experience interviewing, videotaping and editing focus groups and staged scenarios to create a series of educational videos for the College of Pharmacy.

 

Introduction to Motion Pictures and Television                       Chaminade University of Honolulu                     2000-2005

An introductory course designed to give students a basic understanding of the aesthetic and technical aspects of motion pictures and television, with emphasis on the film making elements.Students viewed and critiqued films, and applied what they learned to write their own short screenplay or movie analysis.Taught entirely on-line as well as through extension courses on O‘ahu military bases.

 

Speech for Business Careers                                                Hawaiʻi Community College                                 2002-2004

An introductory course providing students with the skills and the confidence necessary to communicate effectively in a variety of situations.Included frequent practice with one-to-one, small group, and one-to-many formal and informal scenarios.

 

Survey of Dramatic Literature                                              UH Hilo College of Continuing Education & Community Service             2003

An on-line course designed to give students a broad introduction to the classic works of the theatre, from Ancient Greek times to contemporary American Theatre.Students read plays and participated in on-line discussions on themes and issues present in the plays, relating those to the societies in which the plays were written as well as our own society today.

 

Acting Workshop                                                                   Chaminade University of Honolulu                              2000

An introductory course designed to give students a basic understanding of the principles of acting through improvisation, theatrical exercises, monologues and scene work.Taught throughout the year both on-campus and through extension courses on O‘ahu military bases.

 

Theatre 101                                                                          Honolulu Community College - Hickam AFB               1997-99

A survey course providing non-majors with an introduction to the elements of theatrical production, a historical overview of Western Drama and Dance, and contemporary dramatic reactions to this.Taught through extension courses on O‘ahu military base.

 

Graduate Teaching Assistant (Theatre 101)                            University of Hawai'i at Mānoa                                    1994-96

A writing-intesive survey course intended for both majors and non-majors which emphasized production and included both Asian and Western theatre as well as Dance.

 

Acting I                                                                                      University of Hawai'i at Mānoa                                    1993

An introductory course intended for both majors and non majors, where beginning actors were familiarized with performance through improvisatory exercises, and which culminated in actors performing a memorized monologue of their choice.

 

Graduate Teaching Fellow (Acting I)                                        University of Oregon                                                    1992-93

The first in a series of performance classes in a two-year program introducing students to the art of acting.  Open to all

university students.  Utilized improvisatory exercises to familiarize actors with performance techniques, and included performances of memorized monologues and scenes.

 

Mask Acting Workshop                                                            University of Oregon                                                      1992

Taught an introduction to freeing the body and voice for effective performance with a mask.

 

Pedagogued "Acting (Period) Styles" Class                            University of Oregon                                                      1992

An introduction to the acting demands made when representing different historical periods or different cultural environments on-stage.  Included movement, voice, and work with dialects.

2010 - present

2010 - present

Independent Study Courses Taught
 

  • SENIOR PROJECT                                         University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo                                                     FALL 2017 - PRESENT

A guided study, leading the student through the process of conceptualizing, planning, and carrying out a final capstone project that capitalizes on his/her focus in the performing arts.

 

  • LYRIC THEATRE (ONLINE)                           University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo                                                     FALL 2021, SPRING 2022

A guided study, using online independent research into the history, theory and techniques that shaped American Musical Theatre. Includes a final project of a fully choreographed musical number featuring singing and dancing, to be showcased in an online program: Songs, Scenes and Swirls.

 

  • ACTING STYLES (ONLINE)                          University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo                                                         FALL 2020

A guided online study, exploring presentational performance styles including: Classical Greek, Commedia dell’arte, Shakespeare, Restoration Era, the isms, Melodrama, and Theatre for Young Audiences. Selected performance showcased in an online program: Scary Scenarios 2020.

 

  • DOCUMENTARY FILMMAKING                    University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo                                                        SPRING 2019

A guided study, leading the student through the process of researching a topic and presenting that research through the medium of film/video. Final project is a filmed documentary with an accompanying written component.

 

  • SCREENWRITING                                         University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo                                                        SPRING 2018

A guided study, leading the student to an understanding of the unique requirements in script formatting and story structure when writing for the screen. Final project is a screenplay for a full-length film.

 

  • MUSICAL THEATRE RESEARCH                University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo                                                           SPRING 2018

Independent research into the history, theory and techniques that shaped American Musical Theatre. Included hands-on lab work, with a final project of a fully choreographed musical number featuring singing and dancing.

 

  • INTRO TO THEATRE (ONLINE)                  University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo                                                           SPRING 2018, 2019

An online introduction to a variety of theatrical styles throughout history and across cultures, from the standpoint of production. Required reading and discussion of a variety of plays as well as hands-on practicum with a staged production.

 

  • STAGE MAKEUP                                          University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo                                                            FALL 2017

A guided study in the design and application of stage makeup. Includes the study and development of character, corrective, age, and three-dimensional makeup. Required hands-on practicum with a staged production.

 

  • SCREENWRITING                                       University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo                                                           SPRING 2016

A guided study, leading the student to an understanding of the unique requirements in script formatting and story structure when writing for the screen. Final project is a screenplay for a short film.

 

  • ASTRONOMY 299V                                University of Hawai'i at Hilo / 'Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaiʻi    SPRING 2008

In collaboration with Dr. Richard Crowe (Astronomy), taught a variable credit Directed Studies course in researching, writing, rehearsing and presenting Astronomy-based material to the public in a Museum Theatre setting.

 

  • ENGLISH/DRAMA 318                            University of Hawai'i at Hilo                                                               FALL 2003

A directed studies course in Playwriting, culminating with a public reading of a one-act play.

Other (Non-College) Teaching Experience
 

Drama Workshops for 6-10th grade                                      Nāwahīokalaniʻōpuʻu Hawaiian Language Immersion School               2018, 2019

Used theatre exercises to instill individual confidence along with values of group cooperation and actor preparation. Sometimes use story analysis to guide students through brainstorming ideas on creative dramatic adaptations.

Drama Workshops for 8th grade                                           Hilo Intermediate School                                                                       2017, 2018

Used group theatre games to instill values of group cooperation and actor preparation. Conducted for large groups visiting UH Hilo.

Play Development Workshop                                                 Nāwahīokalaniʻōpuʻu Hawaiian Language Immersion School              2016

Taught in the Hawaiian language: basic structure of a play, then worked with students to review a story they wanted to dramatize and to decide which elements to emphasize as they converted their story from the page to the stage. Brainstormed ways to dramatize material through dialogue, hula, and other physical action.

Creative Dramatics Workshop                                                Kamehameha Preschool – Piʻihonua                                                   2004

Taught the basic rules of being a good audience member.  Used games to encourage imagination and focus.  Read a short story aloud, assigned parts to children, then had children act the story out as I re-told it.

 

Creative Dramatics Workshop                                                Kamehameha Elementary School (kindergarten) – East Hawaiʻi         2003

Used games to encourage imagination and focus, experimenting with movements and sounds of different animals.  Read a short story aloud, assigned parts to children, then re-told the story as the children performed the different “parts.”

 

Week-long Creative Dramatics Workshop                             Ala Wai Elementary School 4th grade                                                   1995

Provided an introduction to the basic rules of being an effective performer and a good audience member.  Used games to encourage imagination and focus.  Culminated with the in-class performance of a rehearsed story dramatization.

 

Creative Dramatics/Mask-Making Workshop                         Hau'ula Elementary School Kindergarten                                              1994

Used games to develop movements and sounds for different types of animals or characters.  Taught students to make masks using paper plates and glue-on objects.

 

Mask Making Workshop                                                         Eugene Fiber Arts Guild  (Oregon)                                                        1992

Taught adults how to build masks using papier mache.

 

Drama Workshop Series for 6th grade                                   Waiakea Intermediate School                                                                1989

Used group theatre games and individual coaching to develop self-confidence and performance skills.  Each student prepared a poem or dramatic piece for an upcoming competition.

 

Assistant Teacher for Theatre Exercise Class                        School of the Arts, S.F. California                                                          1983

Taught an hour-long physical warm-up class each day before students began working on individual scenes or improvisatory exercises.  Also served as a scene-coach.

Non-Academic Professional Activities

Intern Coordinator                                                                  ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaiʻi                                                      2013 – 2014

Recruit and provide overall supervision to student workers and interns, assigning them to departments and direct supervisors as needed.  Manage Museum Theatre program.  Advise Outreach and Youth Development program.  Collaboratively pursue and manage grants and donor funds for internships.

 

Interpretive Planning Coordinator                                          ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaiʻi                                                      2013

Supervise Education Department, Events/Experience Team and Exhibits Departments to ensure quality programming and content development.  Develop relationships with University departments, local schools and community organizations to foster applied learning experiences, internships, and paid work-training opportunities for students at 'Imiloa or through 'Imiloa collaborations. Provide overall supervision to student workers and interns, assigning them to departments and direct supervisors as needed.  Manage Manage Museum Theatre program.  Develop Outreach and Youth Development program. 

 

Education & Experience Coordinator                                     ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaiʻi                                                      2008 - 2010,  2012

Coordinate Content Team, consisting of Education Department, Planetarium Staff, Experience Team and Exhibits Department to ensure quality programming and content of exhibits.  Plan, Coordinate and Facilitate annual festivals and events at the center.  Develop relationships with community organizations and grant-making entities to provide paid work-training opportunities for students and Senior Citizens.  Foster partnerships with local schools to develop learning opportunities at the center.  Provide overall supervision to student workers and interns, assigning them to departments and direct supervisors as needed.  Manage Museum Theatre program.  Responsible for the overall experience of students and visitors to the center.

 

Training Specialist                                                                  ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center (Formerly Maunakea Astronomy Education Center)       2006 - 2008

Develop training programs for staff, volunteers, student workers and interns to familiarize them with the contents of ‘Imiloa’s exhibits and the mission of the center.  Teach training sessions and bring in specialists (Astronomers or Hawaiian Cultural Practitioners) to share their area of expertise.  Serve as Volunteer Coordinator for 80+ volunteers.  Develop and maintain Museum Theatre program.  Write scripts for Science-on-a-Sphere, Assisted Listening Tours, Museum Theatre programs and other in-house creative programming.  Supervise student workers, interns & work experience trainees.  Assist Experience Coordinator, Education Team, Marketing, and other departments with special projects as needed.

 

Commencement Coordinator                                                  University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo                                                                     2005-2009

Coordinate all aspects of planning and carrying out the ceremonies celebrating the graduation of undergraduate and graduate students at the University.  Includes dealing with logistics of facilities, security, regalia, dignitaries, administration, faculty, disability services, communications to the graduating students, budget, seating arrangements, honors & awards, diploma covers, food, decorations, music, photography, sound system, ushers, marshals, editing the printed program, determining the overall flow of the program, writing the script, conducting the rehearsal, addressing the audience at the ceremony.  Requires coordination with many offices and departments, including Registrar’s office and publicity offices.  Also includes dealing with special exemptions and other special circumstances that come up.

 

Specialist                                                                            Research Corporation of the University of Hawaiʻi – Maunakea Astronomy Education Center    2005

Assist with locating and collecting digital versions of photographs, drawings and paintings for use in an educational exhibit on Hawaiian history and culture.  Work involves library and internet research; tracking down and negotiating internationally with artists, scientists and photographers; digital photography and creation/manipulation of images using Photoshop; organizing and keeping track of details pertaining to each image; sending images and supporting information over internet to fabrication company.

 

Curriculum Developer                                                            Research Corporation of the University of Hawaiʻi – Title III                        2003-2005

Working under the Title III Native Hawaiian Serving Institution Grant, assisted with editing Hawaiian Language textbook and converting materials into an on-line format so that introductory Hawaiian language courses could be taught on-line.Also assisted with the preparation of other materials, including internet research, digitally photographing plants, and the writing of Hawaiian language scenarios with the intention that these would be filmed and used as teaching aids.

 

Research Assistant                                                                Research Corporation of the University of Hawaiʻi – Title III                       2002

Aided with the development of materials for on-line Hawaiian language classes.Also worked independently to create and develop three on-line drama courses: Introduction to Theatre, Survey of Dramatic Literature, and History of Theatre.

 

Preservation Coordinator                                                       Kumu Kahua Theatre Archive Project (through a grant from HCH)            1996-97

Created the archives to hold the records of Kumu Kahua Theatre’s 26 year history. Primarily responsible for the collection, inventory, organization and processing of the records for archival storage, indexing the collection and preparing the resource brochure.Managed the grant funds for the project.Supervised collections assistants during the process of creating the archives.

 

Assistant to Vice President for Conferences                          Association for Theatre in Higher Education                                              1994-95

Assisted the VPC in all aspects of planning and organizing the annual national conference of a large organization.Included extensive use of Macintosh and IBM computers, as well as national and international communications via computer with theatre educators and artists to coordinate and schedule conference events.At the site of the conference, coordinated hotel staff and conference volunteers to make sure that things went smoothly from start to finish of the four day event.

 

House Manager & Concessions Manager                              Artists Repertory Theatre in Portland, Oregon                                          1990-1991

Maintained the cleanliness, safety, and attractiveness of all audience-accessible areas of the theatre.Responsible for audience comfort and handling any problems that might occur on a nightly basis.Ensured that quality refreshments were available for audience consumption.In conjunction with Box-Office came up with a nightly ticket count.Worked with staff and board members to coordinate special events.Hired and supervised assistants.

Papers Presented / Invited Performances / Guest lectures / Academic talks / Conferences
 

  • Keakalehua Playreading Hui founder and facilitator – weekly online playreadings & discussions for playwrights, directors, producers, etc., March 2020 to present.

 

  • “The Contributions and Impact of Playwright Edward Sakamoto,” A Symposium in conjunction with Hawaiʻi Nō Ka ʻOi: A Sakamoto Celebration, University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa. February 27, 2022.

 

  • Post-Performance Discussion Facilitator for The Conversion of Kaʻahumanu at Honolulu’s Kumu Kahua Theatre, Jan. 2022

 

  • Anchored: Julian, Emma & Lydia...Another Trinity. Performance followed by discussion on the choice to sequester during times. Performed live at St. Andrew’s Tenney Theatre in Honolulu and live-streamed by the Episcopal Diocese of Hawaiʻi. November 21, 2021

 

  • Post-Performance Discussion Facilitator for #haoleboyfriend at Honolulu’s Kumu Kahua Theatre, September 2021

 

  • Post-Performance Discussion Facilitator for Untitled TMT Project at Honolulu’s Kumu Kahua Theatre, June 2021

 

  • "Fostering Hawaiian Language Use Through Keiki Theatre" for Childrenʻs Litarature Hawaiʻi, presented online for the UH Hilo day of the statewide conference, June 2021.

 

  • Concluding Discussion Facilitator – Oʻahu’s Creative Lab Hawaiʻi statewide online play festival, hosted online, spring 2021

  • Post-Performance Discussion Facilitator for X OTHER: A Micro-story at Honolulu’s Kumu Kahua Theatre, March 2021

 

  • The Conversion of Kaʻahumanu video and discussion. Island Feminisms: Place, Justice, and Movement 2021 Virtual Speaker Series. Island Feminisms Project, Gonzaga University. March 5 & 12, 2021.

 

  • Drama Improvisation Strategies for Elementary School Teachers (Guest Workshop for ED659 “Professional Practice” class), UH Hilo, March 1, 2021

 

  • Post-Performance Discussion Facilitator for Aloha Fry-Day at Honolulu’s Kumu Kahua Theatre, January 2021

 

  • Post-Performance Discussion Facilitator for Aloha Attire at Honolulu’s Kumu Kahua Theatre, November 2020

 

  • Guest Speaker, UH Hilo Faculty Showcase of Success (online teaching strategies), UH Hilo, November 2020

 

  • Guest Speaker, ENG461: Shakespeare (presenting on modern adaptation of Othello), UH Hilo, October 2020

 

  • Post-Performance Discussion Facilitator for Lovey Lee at Honolulu’s Kumu Kahua Theatre, October 2020

 

  • Nā Kao Pūkalakī ʻEkolu – bi-lingual play for children presented at Children’s Literature of Hawaiʻi Conference, UH Hilo, summer 2018

 

  • Guest Lecturer for Non-Verbal Communication Class (COM 375), UH Hilo, Fall 2010, Spring 2014, Fall 2015

 

  • “Alani Apio’s Kāmau,” Guest Lecture for Literature of Hawaiʻi class at UH Hilo, presented Spring 2014

 

  • “Victoria Nālani Kneubuhl’s Ka Wai Ola,” Guest Lecture for Literature of Hawaiʻi class at UH Hilo, presented Spring 2014

 

  • "Local Theatre in Hawaiʻi,"Lecture at University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, Dept. of Theatre and Dance, presented Spring 2012

 

  • "Hālāwai Hoʻonaʻauao Kākau Hanakeaka: Playwriting Workshop," University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, presented Spring 2012

 

  • Ola Nā Iwi: Multiple Perspectives in Conversation,” Kumu Kahua / Hawaiʻi Council for the Humanities, Fall 2007

 

  • “Theatre of Hawaiʻi,” Guest Lecture for World Theatre class, University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, presented 1996 and 2000

 

  • “Getting Somewheres,” Jointly led post-performance humanities discussion on the history of working women in Hawaiʻi, Līhuʻe Kauaʻi, October 1996

 

  • “Pacific and Asian American Theatre,” Guest Lecture for Introduction to Theatre class, University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, 1996

 

  • "The Women of Edward Sakamoto's Trilogy: Hawaiʻi No Ka ʻOi," presented at Constructions and Confrontations: Changing Representations of Women and Feminisms, East and West.University of Hawai'i at Mānoa and East-West Center Symposium, 21 September 1994

 

  • “Chicano Theatre,” Guest Lecture for Introduction to Theatre class, University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, presented 1994 and 1995

 

  • "Leaving Aristotle Behind: A Lexicon for Exploring World Theatre," presented jointly with Dr. Juli Burk, Harry Wong III, and Angela Meyers.University of Hawai'i at Mānoa Department of Theatre and Dance, 1994

Printed & Online Publications
 

  • Editor & Website Manager Keakalehua Playreading Hui (a website highlighting teh activities of an online play development group based on Hawaiʻi Island, with participants around the world) 2022. https://justinamattos.wixsite.com/keakalehua

 

  • Editor & Website Manager KEAKA Hawaiian Language Theatre Festival (a website highlighting the activities of Hilo’s Keaka Hawaiian Language Theatre Festival) 2019-present. https://www.ahahanakeaka.org/

 

 

  • “Home Is Where The Heart Is,” Play Guide, University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, February 2022.

 

  • “Performing Arts at UH Hilo: A History of Inclusiveness and Collaboration,” 1/16/2020.

 

  • After Dawn.  A Novel.  Lulu Publication Co. 2014.

 

  • “Life As Art: Achieving Harmony, Serenity and Balance.An Interview with Jason Scott Lee.”. 2010.

 

  • “Ola Nā Iwi: A Postmodernist Look at Science and Culture.” Original Plays & Classic Humanities. Kumu Kahua & Hawaiʻi Council for the Humanities, 2007.

 

  • “A Guide to the Archival Records of Kumu Kahua Theatre 1971-1997.” Honolulu: Kumu Kahua Theatre.1997.

 

  • "The Women of Edward Sakamoto's Trilogy: " , vol. 12, 1996.

 

  • “Meet the Playwright: Victoria Nalani Kneubuhl.” , vol. 10, Spring 1996.

 

  • “Stereotypes and Racial Relations in Hawaiʻi’s Contemporary Indigenous Drama.” , vol. 10, Spring 1996.

 

  • "Kumu Kahua Theatre: The First Ten Years." Finalist in Student Essay Contest, 1994.Published in , vol. 10, Spring 1996.

Creative Work
 

Directing:

Wailau, an online storytelling series created/hosted by UH Hilo. (Episode 4: forthcoming May 2022) https://hilo.hawaii.edu/wailau/

Now & Then: Valentine Vignettes 2022, an online theatrical event, UH Hilo, Spring 2022

Holly Jolly Holidays, an online showcase of songs, dances, and scenes. UH Hilo, fall 2021

Wailau, an online storytelling series created/hosted by UH Hilo. (Episode 3: Nov. 2021) https://hilo.hawaii.edu/wailau/

Scary Scenarios 2021, an online offering of original monologues, UH Hilo, Fall 2021.

Banyan by Jeannie Barroga, UH Hilo, (filmed during summer & shared online 9/11), fall 2021

E Hoʻomau: Endure, Living History performances shared online at UH Hilo in collaboration with Kumu Kahua Theatre, summer 2021

Lā Makuahine, an online community collaboration showcasing stories, poems, and songs celebrating moms. UH Hilo, spring 2021

Wailau, an online storytelling series created/hosted by UH Hilo. (Episode 2: April 2021) https://hilo.hawaii.edu/wailau/

Sanctuary by Ryan Okinaka, Creative Lab Hawaiʻi statewide online play festival, spring 2021

The Conversion of Kaʻahumanu by Victoria Nalani Kneubuhl, UH Hilo, spring 2021 (shared online due to pandemic)

Virtually Yours: Valentine Vignettes 2021, an online theatrical event, UH Hilo, Spring 2021

Wailau, an online storytelling series created/hosted by UH Hilo. (Episode 1: Feb. 2021) https://hilo.hawaii.edu/wailau/

Kalikimaka 2020, an online community collaboration showcasing stories, poems, songs and memories, UH Hilo, Fall 2020

MOORE: A Pacific Island Othello by Kepano Richter, (received KCACTF Region 8 Commendation for Meritorious Achievement), UH Hilo, Fall 2020.

Scary Scenarios 2020, an online theatrical event via zoom, UH Hilo, Fall 2020.

The Hawaiian Nutcracker, Directorial Consultant for Dance Extravaganza, UH Hilo, Fall 2019.

Scary Scenarios 2019, a serial-theatre event featuring monologues written by Lopaka Kapanui, Nani Mau Gardens, fall 2019.

Moʻo Huelo: Tale of a Tail, a Hawaiian language musical for children by Justina Taft Mattos, KEAKA Hawaiian Language Theatre Festival, Summer 2019.

RENT, a Rock-Musical by Jonathan Larson, UH Hilo, Spring 2019.
Scary Scenarios 2018, a serial-theatre event featuring student-written one-act plays, UH Hilo, Fall 2017.
Aloha Las Vegas by Edward Sakamoto, UH Hilo, Spring 2018
ʻEkolu, a bi-lingual Hawaiian/Pidgin touring production for Hilo after-school programs. UH Hilo, spring 2018.
Scary Scenarios 2017, a serial-theatre event featuring scenes & monologues written by students, UH Hilo, Fall 2017.

Kakahiaka, a Hawaiian language musical for children by Justina Taft Mattos, presented at KEAKA Hawaiian language Theatre Festival, UH Hilo,  2016.

Antony and Cleopatra by William Shakespeare, Assistant-Director, Hilo Community Players, summer 2014.

The Trial of Liliʻuokalani by Maurice Zimring, Hilo Community Players at East Hawaiʻi Cultural Center, fall 2013.

Go, Dog. Go!  a musical for young children by Allison Gregory & Steven Dietz, University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo, fall 2011.

Once Upon One Noddah Time, a musical by Lisa Matsumoto, Downtown Hilo’s Historic Palace Theater, fall 2008.

Once Upon One Time, a musical by Lisa Matsumoto, Volcano Art Center, summer 2007.

Another Heaven by Eric Anderson, University of Hawai’i at Hilo, fall 2005.

Burn This by Lanford Wilson, Ulua Theatre at Pu Mu, Volcano Hawai’i, summer 2005.

Aloha Friday by Lee Cataluna, University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo, fall 2004.

You Somebody, a musical by Lee Cataluna, Volcano Art Center, summer 2004.

The Vagina Monologues by Eve Ensler, the Palace Theatre in Hilo & Aloha Theatre in Kainaliu, 2004.

Much Ado About Nothing by William Shakespeare, Hilo Community Players’ Shakespeare in the Park, summer 2003.

‘Ohana: Through the Eyes of the Children, Hilo Community Players’ Children’s Theatre Workshop, spring 2003.

Stew Rice by Edward Sakamoto, University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo, fall 2002.

One Uddah Midsummah, a pidgin adaptation of Shakespeare's work; Assistant Director, Hilo Community Players’ Shakespeare in the Park, summer 2002.

Hilo Rains by Justina Mattos, Mahina Productions in Hilo, Hawai‘i 2001.

Lessons from Mother Adele’s Faith, Mission and Action by Justina Mattos, Chaminade University of Honolulu, 2000.

Santa and the Efficiency Expert by Frances B. Watts, Our Redeemer Lutheran High School in Honolulu, Hawai'i 1994.

Seascape with Sharks and Dancer by Don Nigro, an evening of scenes, University of Oregon, 1993.

Life Under Water by Richard Greenberg, an evening of one-act plays, University of Hawai'i at Hilo, 1989.

Fledglings of the Night by Claudia Riley, Assistant Director, Hilo Community Players, 1987.

Dracula’s Disciple, Assistant to the Director, Footloose Films, San Francisco California, 1982.

Cinderwolf and Snowtroll, Inc., and Same Time Next Year, Assistant to the Director, Celebration Company in Urbana, Illinois 1981.

Producing:

Director & Co-Producer                   Wailau (an online storytelling series for UH Hilo) 2021-present
Co-Producer & Website Manager   KEAKA Hawaiian Language Theatre Festival, at the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo, 2016-present

Editor & Website Manager              Literature of Hawaiʻi (a website featureing student writing on local authors and literature) 2015-present

Producer and Co-Director               Kakahiaka,  KEAKA: Hawaiian Language Theatre Festival, 2016

Project Director                               "How I See It: Health Care Concerns in Our Community"  (video)  UH Hilo Coll. of Pharmacy, 2011

Co-Producer                                   "Toward Living Pono: A Documentary with Jason Scott Lee"               BaciPix, 2006-2011

Producer & Co-Director                  “Getting There… From Here” (Educational video) at ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center, 2009

Co-Producer & Co-Director            “Journeys” (Educational video) at ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center, 2009

Co-Producer                                   “One Ocean, One Sky,” Planetarium Show.  ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawai`i, 2007

Producer & Co-Director                  “Burn This” at the Ulua Theatre at Pu Mu (Volcano, Hawai’i), 2005

Producer & Director                        “Hilo Rains” Lunch-time Mystery Theatre for Mahina Productions, 2001

Drama Advisor                                Lutheran High School in Honolulu, Hawai'i, 1994

Playwriting:

Oh, Hello! A Teen Othello, produced online by Hilo Community Players, summer 2020.

Moʻo Huelo: Tale of a Tail, Hawaiian language musical for children. Produced for KEAKA Hawaiian language Theatre Festival, UH Hilo 2019.

ʻEkolu, a bi-lingual Hawaiian/Pidgin touring production for children. Produced through Theatre ʻAuana program, UH Hilo 2018.

Kakahiaka a Hawaiian language musical for children. Produced for KEAKA Hawaiian language theatre festival, UH Hilo 2016.

"Tomorrow: A Pidgin Comedy," co-written with KellyRae Bell (viewable on YouTube), 2010.

“Into the Light,” written under commission at Ulua Theatre, 2008.

“‘Ohana: Through the Eyes of the Children,” collaboratively written, produced for Hilo Community Players, spring 2003.

“Hilo Rains,” performed in Downtown Hilo for Mahina Productions, September 2001.

“Lessons from Mother Adele’s Faith, Mission and Action,” performed at Chaminade University’s Women’s History Program, 2000.

 “Aurora,” written 1999.  Produced by Performing Arts Learning Center, Hilo High School, October 2000.

“‘Iolani: A Christmas Story,”  playreading held by Kumu Kahua Theatre June 2000.

 “WHODABUGGAH: The Case of the Sharkbait Sailor,” written 1999.  Unproduced.

"The Gambler," a Kyogen play written and read at the University of Hawai'i at Mānoa Dept. of Theatre & Dance 1994.

"By Choice," produced at Pocket Playhouse, University of Oregon 1993.

"Nā Pua'a Li'ili'i 'Ekolu," won prize in Hilo Community Players' playwriting contest, 1993.

"Families," ensemble theatre performance written & performed at Celebration Company, Urbana Illinois, 1981.

Writing for the Screen and Other Media:

"Kealakekua 1779: The Final Voyage of Captain Cook," screenplay written 2013. Unproduced.

"How I See It: Health Care Concerns in Our Community," dramatic vignettes on video, UH Hilo College of Pharmacy, 2011.

“UH Hilo: A Living Laboratory,” Promotional video co-written for UH Hilo 2009-2010.

“Getting There… From Here” dialogue for video hosts. ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaiʻi, 2009.

“Journeys” narration for video host. ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaiʻi, 2009.

Audio Tour of Landscape – Written 2009. ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaiʻi.

Audio Tour of Exhibits – keiki and adult versions. Written 2007.  ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaiʻi.

“One Ocean, One Sky,” co-written 2007 for Planetarium.  ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaiʻi.

“Hōkūleʻa and Maisu, 2007”  written 2007 for Science-on-a-Sphere, ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaiʻi

“Hālau Hula Around the World” written 2007 for Science-on-a-Sphere. ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaiʻi

“Near Miss.” screenplay written 2005. Unproduced.

“After Dawn”  screenplay written 2004.  Unproduced.

Acting:      (selective list)

Anchored, (Saint Julian) Episcopalian Diocese of Hawaiʻi, 2021

The Conversion of Kaʻahumanu, staged reading at Lyman House Museum (Lucy Thurston), Hilo 2019.

Tsunami Years, (Poetry Ensemble), Pacific Tsunami Museum 20th Anniversary Celebration and UH Hilo Conference 2016

It's a Wonderful Life & My Friend Irma: Two Radio Plays  (Mary & Jane) East Hawaiʻi Cultural Center, Hilo & KMC, Volcano 2010

Folks You Meet in Longs  (Linda - the Car Wash Lady)  University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo, 2010.

Tomorrow: A Pidgin Comedy (Sue U. Manana)  B.A.C.E. Comedy Night, Hilo Woman's Center, 2010.

The Laramie Project: Ten Years Later  (Leigh F., Zacke S., Susan S.)  GASP Theatre, Hilo 2009.

What’s Love Got to Do With It?, (Jayleen) AlohaCare/Healthy Intentions, East-Hawai‘i tour, 2002.

Getting Somewheres, (Katherine Bukoski) Hawai'i Committee for the Humanities state tour, 1995 - 1999.

Kāmau, Kumu Kahua Theatre, (Lisa) performed on tour to Kaua'i, 1994.

Manoa Valley & The Life of the Land [in repertoire], (Susan Kamiya) Kumu Kahua Theatre, 1993 - 1994.

Tangled Snarl, (Ginny) University of Oregon Pocket Playhouse, 1993.

Who Killed Frankie? (Virgin Spring) scripted & improvisational, Lord Leebrick Theatre Company, Oregon, 1992.

The Injustice Done to DouErh..., (Old Chang) University of Oregon, 1992.

Almost A King, (Margaret Rice)  University of Hawai'i at Hilo, 1988.

Fledglings of the Night, (Pele’s Spirit)  Hilo Community Players, 1987.

The Tingalary Bird, (The Tingalary Bird) University of Hawai'i at Mänoa Lab Theatre, 1987.

Twelf Nite O Wateva, (Kohala)  Kumu Kahua Theatre, toured to Maui, Kaua'i, Hawai'i & O'ahu, 1986.

Three Strong Women, (Grandma Lou)  Center for Theatre Training, toured to schools in San Francisco,  1983.

Twelfth Night, (Maria)  Center for Theatre Training in San Francisco. 1983.

The Skin of Our Teeth, (Sabina)  Center for Theatre Training in San Francisco, 1981.

Families, (Ensemble Theatre - played mother, older sister, etc.)  Celebration Company, Urbana Illinois, 1981.

Designing:

Moʻo Huelo, Costume Design & Construction, KEAKA Hawaiian Language Theatre Festival, UH Hilo, 2019.

ʻEkolu, Costume Design and Construction, University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo, 2018.
Aloha Friday, Set Design, Video props design/coordinator, University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo, 2004.

Hilo Rains, Costume and Properties design & construction, Mahina Productions in Hilo, 2001.

Lessons from Mother Adele’s Faith…, Costume design, Chaminade University of Honolulu, 2000.

Santa and the Efficiency Expert, Costume and Set design & construction, Lutheran High School in Honolulu, 1994.

Roosters, Costume Design and Construction, University of Oregon, 1993.

Into The Woods, Props Design and Construction, University of Oregon, 1991.

A Play: A Play, Costume Design and Construction, University of Hawai'i at Hilo, 1990.

Sister Mary Ignatius Explains It All For You, Makeup Design and Application, University of Hawai'i at Hilo, 1988.

Photography and Artwork Published or Exhibited:

The Trial of Liliʻuokalani    DVD cover photos and publicity photos for Hilo Community Players, 2013

Dancer Greeting Light      Published in Hawaii Womenʻs Journal  Issue 4, November 2010 - February 2011

Children at Playground     in Hands-on Exhibit Notebook, Hawaiian Language Classroom at ʻImiloa Astronomy Ctr.     2005-present

Boy Examining Meteorite used for various training & publicity purposes at ʻImiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaiʻi            2005-present

Hawaiian Youth Speaking to Audience used for various training & publicity purposes atʻImiloa Astronomy Ctr.              2005-present

Brother & Sister Hugging  on exhibit in Keiki Forest at ʻImiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaiʻi             2005-present

ʻImiloa Astronomy Center  Published as Postcard  by   ʻImiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaiʻi            2005

Kids in Maunakea Snow    Piko Exhibit Journal             ʻImiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaiʻi            2005-2012

ʻOhana                               Kumulipo Waiting Area        ʻImiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaiʻi            permanent exhibit, installed 2005

Puʻuloa Petroglyph            Kumulipo Wall                      ʻImiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaiʻi            permanent exhibit, installed 2005

Petroglyph Pair                  Kumulipo Wall                      ʻImiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaiʻi            permanent exhibit, installed 2005

Portrait: Richard Waipa     Kumulipo Wall                      ʻImiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaiʻi            permanent exhibit, installed 2005

Portrait:Jason Scott Lee    Kumulipo Wall                      ʻImiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaiʻi            permanent exhibit, installed 2005

Portrait: Ginger Gohier      Kumulipo Wall                      ʻImiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaiʻi            permanent exhibit, installed 2005

Dancer under Hala Tree    Hula Exhibit                         ʻImiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaiʻi            permanent exhibit, installed 2005

Picking Lehua                    Hula Exhibit                         ʻImiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaiʻi            permanent exhibit, installed 2005

Gecko                                Needlepoint Wallhanging, won Hawaiʻi statewide student art competition, exhibited at Ala Moana Ctr. 1977

Honors & Awards Received
  • Board of Regents Award for Excellence in Teaching, University of Hawaiʻi, 2020-2021

  • Hilo Community Players Tiki Award – Best Original Play – for Oh, Hello! A Teen Othello, 2020-2021

  • Hilo Community Players Tiki Award – Best Director – for Much Ado About Nothing, 2004

  • Bank of Hawai'i, Bankoh Harry and Myra Performing Arts/Academic Scholarship, 1994

  • Big Island Educational Federal Credit Union, Academic Scholarship, 1994

  • Hilo Community Players, playwriting prize for children's play, Nā Pua'a Li'ili'i 'Ekolu, 1994

  • Diamond Head Theatre, Tom Selleck/Carol Burnett Performing Arts Scholarship, 1994

  • Second Place & Honorable Mention for masks in art exhibit, Lane County Fair (Oregon), 1992

  • United States Achievement Academy, National Collegiate Academic Honorary - All American Scholar, 1992

  • University of Hawai'i at Hilo, graduated with honors, 1990

  • Graduated early on High School Honor Roll, January 1983

  • Bank of America, Outstanding Student Award (placed 4th in state of California), 1983

  • Needlepoint Wallhanging won Hawai'i statewide student art competition, exhibited at Ala Moana Center 1977

Institutional Grants & Funding Received
  • UH Mānoa SEED Grant Initiative – Spring 2018, “Language Acquisition Through Performance,” $1,000 for planning and conducting Hawaiian/English bi-lingual touring production to after-school programs in Hilo area, and studying language acquisition & retention in relation to the presentation.

  • Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority - 2010 County Product Enrichment Program, County of Hawaiʻi $10,000 for planning and conducting 3rd annual Hilo Wayfinding and Navigation Festival at ʻImiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaiʻi.

  • Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority - 2010 County Product Enrichment Program, County of Hawaiʻi, $8,500 for planning and conducting 4th annual Merrie Monarch Enrichment Activities (a week-long series of daytime events offered in support of Hiloʻs annual Merrie Monarch Hula Festival) at ʻImiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaiʻi.

  • AANAPISI (Asian American & Native American Pacific Islander Serving Institutions Program) 2010.  $45,000 in funds to support student positions at ʻImiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaiʻi.

  • Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority – 2009 County Product Enrichment Program, County of Hawai`i. $10,000 for planning and conducting 2nd annual Hilo Wayfinding and Navigation Festival at ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaiʻi.

  • Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority – 2009 County Product Enrichment Program, County of Hawai`i. $10,000 for planning and conducting 3rd annual Merrie Monarch Enrichment Activities (a week-long series of daytime events offered in support of Hilo’s annual Merrie Monarch Hula Festival) at ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaiʻi.

  • AANAPISI (Asian American & Native American Pacific Islander Serving Institutions Program) 2009.  $20,000 in funds to support student positions at ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaiʻi.

  • Office of Hawaiian Affairs - $66,334 awarded for 2008 development of Pocket Theatre Program at ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaiʻi, including purchase of equipment and funding of student internships.

  • Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority – 2008 County Product Enrichment Program, County of Hawaiʻi. $5,000 for planning and conducting 2nd annual Merrie Monarch Enrichment Activities (a week-long series of daytime events offered in support of Hilo’s annual Merrie Monarch Hula Festival) at ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaiʻi.

  • Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority – 2008 County Product Enrichment Program, County of Hawai`i., $10,000 for planning and conducting 1st annual Hilo Wayfinding and Navigation Festival at ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaiʻi.

Organizational Affiliations

•      Screen Actors Guild 1985-present

•      Kumu Kahua Theatre - Board of Directors    1994-1998

•      American Association of University Women  1995-1997

•      Association for Theatre in Higher Education 1993-1997

Professional References

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