Sarah Ruth Diener

305 E 8 Street Duluth, MN 55805 Phone: 218.341.0900 E-Mail: sarahrmdiener@gmail.com

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ARTIST STATEMENT
As an artist, I strive to create and take part in artistic ventures that make holistic art education and theatre part of the community and peoples lives. As an educator, I endeavor to bring theatre into the lives of those who have difficulty accessing it, due to economic status, special education needs, limited exposure, by using the naturally cooperative and communicative art of theatre. I recognize the power of using theatre for social change, and want to use theatre as a tool to break down barriers. With my background of working both with children struggling with homelessness, and children living the daily challenges of autism, I want to continue to develop new ways that I can reach these communities. As an artist, I want to take part in and create new works of theatre, programming and resources that will help these communities state, and even nation-wide.

EDUCATION
BACHELOR OF FINE ARTS-ACTING

UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA-DULUTH

2009 GPA: 3.6 MINOR IN DANCE

As the managing director of Stage II for two years, dealt with the budget of each show, obtaining rights to the shows produced as well as planning the season and carrying out tech week procedures. Served as an advisor for new students, assisting them with class registration particularly within the theatre and School of Fine Arts programs.

RELATED EXPERIENCE
DULUTH PLAYHOUSE

Education and Community Outreach Coordinator

June 2009-present

Planned programming for The Playhouse Education program, as well as coordinated with schools and other programs within the community. Developed a touring childrens show which travels to area libraries, planned a birthday party program for youth, and created an internship program for adults in our community who want a chance to become more involved in the arts. Participated in a number of committees, such as the producing committee for the Underground, a black box performance and venue and learning community, as well as the main stage season selection. As lead instructor for the Childrens Education program, taught classes, directed and choreographed childrens shows year round, and have worked with a wide age range of children both one-and-one and in large and small groups. Worked in a program designed to use theatre to bridge mental, social and emotional gaps for children with autism.

TRUE NORTH AMERICORPS

Families in Transition Liaison- Duluth Public Schools August 2010-September 2011

Worked as a full time tutor for students who are in transitional housing or in shelters. I worked mostly with students K-4th grade, providing academic and emotional support.

TRUE NORTH AMERICORPS

Enrichment Program Coordinator- Marshall School

August 2009-August 2010

Planned and executed afterschool programs for middle school students. Planned Schools Out programming, re-implementing a Big Brothers and Sisters program with the high school.

SIEUR DULUTH SUMMER ARTS FEST

Assistant Stage Manager-University of MN-Duluth

May-August 2008

Worked as assistant stage manager, running rehearsals, organizing meetings, heading up large groups of people, including international performers

OTHER EXPERIENCE
FREELANCE

Private Tutor

September 2009-June 2010

Worked directly with a student with dysgraphia and some autistic tendencies. Helped student to organize his schedule and classes. Worked with him to become stronger at completing homework assignments independently. Graduated with department honors. Recipient of scholarships that include the Lois Cashmere Birk Scholarship and the Rose and Ira Gershgol Scholarship.

AWARDS