2026 Schedule

Ever wondered what it takes to bring characters to life using only your voice? Join the USC School of Dramatic Arts for an interactive introduction to the art of voice acting. Inside a state-of-the-art recording studio, faculty member Phil Allen and fellow SDA professionals will show how they help students find voices and characters they didn’t know they possessed. During this special session, family members and students will get a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process and have the opportunity to step up to the microphone and record their own voiceover.

Space is extremely limited, and advance RSVP is required. To request a spot, please email sdaevent@usc.edu. Participation is limited to guests who receive a confirmation email.

Discover how the USC School of Dramatic Arts fosters a culture of belonging, collaboration, and artistic growth.

Join SDA leaders and community advocates as they share the values and practices that help shape a supportive and inclusive artistic community. This session is an opportunity to connect with fellow Trojan families and gain insight into student life.

Speakers are Anita Dashiell-Sparks, Burns Distinguished Professor; Professor of Theatre Practice in Acting; Associate Dean of Community & Culture; Chair of Performance; and Chevaughan Dyer, Conservatory Coordinator and Director, Sparks Center for Community & Culture.

Space is limited to 35 guests. Advance RSVP is required. To reserve your spot, please email sdaevent@usc.edu.

Ever wondered what it takes to bring characters to life using only your voice? Join the USC School of Dramatic Arts for an interactive introduction to the art of voice acting. Inside a state-of-the-art recording studio, faculty member Phil Allen and fellow SDA professionals will show how they help students find voices and characters they didn’t know they possessed. During this special session, family members and students will get a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process and have the opportunity to step up to the microphone and record their own voiceover.

Space is extremely limited, and advance RSVP is required. To request a spot, please email sdaevent@usc.edu. Participation is limited to guests who receive a confirmation email.

Step into a world of wonder with Professor Matthew Felten as he brings one of USC School of Dramatic Arts’ most popular classes to life. This kid-friendly session explores the fascinating history of magic through demonstrations of everything from illusions and mentalism to vanishing coins and classic card tricks.

Whether you’re young or young at heart, this enchanting session promises to amaze, entertain, and spark your imagination. Don’t miss the chance to experience the magic up close!

Gather around the CommUNITY Table during Trojan Family Weekend for a hands-on experience centered on food, family, and connection. Families will work together to prepare a simple, healthy dinner and then enjoy the meal they’ve created.

Through preparing, conversation, and a little fun along the way, this shared experience offers families an opportunity to connect, meet fellow members of the Trojan community, and celebrate the connections that bring our Trojan Family together.

Join USC School of Dramatic Arts Vice Dean Lori Ray Fisher and other members of the school’s senior leadership for a warm welcome to Trojan Family Weekend with light breakfast refreshments in the Queen’s Courtyard.

Then head to the Bing Theatre for an exciting panel featuring SDA alumni and industry insiders. Hear real-life stories, gain insights into the evolving world of the dramatic arts, and explore the opportunities that await students in today’s creative landscape. A lively Q&A session will follow, giving you the chance to ask questions and engage directly with the panelists.

It’s a special opportunity to hear firsthand from alumni working in the industry and get an inside look at the world today’s SDA students are preparing to enter.

Get an insider’s look at the creative process behind the USC School of Dramatic Arts’ fall production of The Beggar’s Opera. Join Tony Shayne, Assistant Professor of Theatre Practice in Production Management and Producing, along with SDA production staff, stage management, and design students, as they share how a production like this comes to life from concept to curtain call.

This behind-the-scenes session offers a unique opportunity to explore the artistry, collaboration, and technical expertise that go into building a fully staged production. Hear directly from the students making it happen and discover the work, creativity, and collaboration happening behind the curtain.

Explore how the USC School of Dramatic Arts helps students turn their passion into a profession. In this informative session, you’ll learn about the resources, opportunities, and support available through SDA’s Professional Development Center and academic programs to help students connect their education to their professional goals.

From internships and industry connections to developing multi-hyphenate skills, this session highlights the many ways SDA prepares students for diverse careers in the dramatic arts. Families will also discover how they can support their student’s journey and success.

Discover how SDA helps students build the skills, connections, and confidence to navigate an evolving landscape, and learn how families can support them along the way.

Think your family has what it takes to claim Trojan bragging rights? Join the USC School of Dramatic Arts for a fast-paced game show experience filled with friendly competition, laughter, and Trojan spirit.

Families will put their USC knowledge and family bonds to the test through exciting rounds of Trojan Trivia, Family Feud-style “Survey Says” challenges, and fun “Who Knows Who Better?” competitions. Along the way, participants will discover interesting facts about USC traditions, campus life, and the Trojan experience.

Whether you’re competing as a family team or cheering from the audience, this interactive event promises plenty of memorable moments. The excitement builds to a championship round, where one team will earn the title of Ultimate Trojan Family Champion.

Step into the spotlight and experience the thrill of acting in this hands-on workshop designed especially for families of USC School of Dramatic Arts students. Led by Assistant Professor of Theatre Practice in Performance Paul Urcioli, this engaging session invites you to explore dynamic warm-ups, movement techniques, and the art of character development.

Discover some of the techniques actors use to bring stories and characters to life and unleash your creativity in a fun, supportive environment. Whether you’re new to acting or just curious, this workshop is a great way to jump in, have some fun, and get a taste of the SDA experience.