The USC School of Dramatic Arts brings some of the industry’s most influential artists to share their advice, perspective and experience with our students through informal Q&A sessions, workshops and master classes.
Spotlight on Visiting Artists @ SDA
Recent Guests
Delving into the world of directing
The year’s first Multihyphenate Masterclass featured a 2-time Emmy winner and a Sundance Grand Jury finalist dispensing advice and wisdom on directing.
multihyphenateAnnual industry insider panel gives Trojan Families a glimpse into their students’ future
A panel of industry insiders shared their unique journeys into the arts and entertainment industry as part of Trojan Family Weekend.
insidersWriting your own opportunities
A panel of writer-actors and a documentarian gathered to discuss how to develop a career in writing at 2023’s final Multihyphenate Masterclass.
multihyphenateVoice and voiceover for multihyphenates
A celebrated voice coach and a panel of professional voice actors dove into techniques and strategy for making a career in voice and voiceover at the eighth Multihyphenate Masterclass.
multihyphenateProducing 101 for multihyphenates
Producer-artist multihyphenates conducted an interactive workshop for students and alumni on the essentials of producing at the seventh Multihyphenate Masterclass.
multihyphenateComedy legend Will Ferrell brings wisdom and wit to SDA
Comedy legend and proud Trojan Will Ferrell spoke with Professor Natsuko Ohama about his career, acting advice, and why studying acting is a great way to spend your college years.
star powerSDA faculty help student-athletes tackle microaggressions
SDA faculty arranged an event that uses theatre techniques to let student-athletes grapple with religious microaggressions.
fight onMental health for multihyphenates
A constellation of insiders discussed psychology and mental health in the arts and entertainment industry at the sixth Multihyphenate Masterclass.
multihyphenateFinding the path to leadership
A host of multihyphenate directors, producers, and executives discussed strategies for artistic entrepreneurship at the fifth Multihyphenate Masterclass.
multihyphenateDebbie Allen and alumni on transitioning from acting to directing
Legendary multihyphenate Debbie Allen and a panel of Trojan alumni talked transitioning from acting to directing in the fourth Multihyphenate Masterclass.
multihyphenateOscar winner Adrien Brody talks shop with SDA students
Oscar-winning actor Adrien Brody stopped by SDA for a Q&A with David Warshofsky
star powerHalloween at SDA: A conversation about horror acting for stage & screen
Filmmaker and SDA alum Michael Schwartz sat down with students for a Halloween conversation about acting in horror.
scream queensSDA and Thunder Studios give students a glimpse of the future of performance at the third Multihyphenate Masterclass
SDA students and alumni got a glimpse into the future of live performance at October’s Multihyphenate Masterclass in collaboration with Thunder Studios.
multihyphenate“There’s no ‘no’”: Mindy Kaling accepts inaugural Multihyphenate Award
Kaling recieved award during event led by Colman Domingo, and also featured Franklin Leonard, Paula Wagner, and Sean San José.
multihyphenateMindy Kaling to receive inaugural Multihyphenate Award from USC School of Dramatic Arts
Kaling to recieve the award during event launching Multihyphenate Masterclass Series at SDA. Led by Colman Domingo, event will also feature Franklin Leonard, Paula Wagner, and Sean San José.
multihyphenateGuy Pearce reflects on his extensive career
The veteran actor shares the highs and lows of working in the business and advice for students.
Spotlight@SDAJane Lynch encourages students to “know thy self” to find success in life and career
The multi-award-winning actor talks about the importance of “yes,” her approach to comedy and drama, and more during the virtual event in fall.
Spotlight@SDAAubrey Plaza keeps it authentic, encourages students to do the same
The seasoned actor, comedian, producer and writer discussed her experiences with the School of Dramatic Arts community in the summer.
Spotlight@SDABlankenbuehler’s virtual master class from his room, where it happens
The Broadway choreographer teaches subtle musical theatre moves via Zoom
virtual virtuosityAli Stroker talks overcoming obstacles
Tony winner visits campus and tells her inspiring career story, encouraging all to use limitations to their advantage.
groundbreakerSpotlight@SDA: Kristin Linklater
Acclaimed voice coach Kristin Linklater joined Dean David Bridel and professor of theatre practice Natsuko Ohama for a conversation about Shakespeare, breath, nature, and more.
#enunciateBen Kingsley reflects on Gandhi, other top projects
The Oscar-winning actor looks back at a stellar career that once included work with 300,000 extras and a funeral carriage.
Spotlight@SDAJosh Gad inspires drama students with tales of career missteps
Actor shares stories with students, faculty and Dean David Bridel at first USC School of Dramatic Arts Spotlight@SDA event of the year.
Spotlight@SDAJoe Mantello talks ‘Wicked,’ acting and more
Award-winning director visits SDA for guest artist series.
Spotlight@SDAReflecting beyond ‘Star Wars’
Mark Hamill offers wisdom to students at the School of Dramatic Arts series.
Spotlight@SDAKevin Kline inaugurates first Spotlight@SDA in New York
The multi-talented actor was interviewed by SDA faculty member Kate Burton at the event for students, alumni and parents.
spotlight@SDATheatre critic Hilton Als on writing, performance and the challenge of creation
The Pulitzer Prize-winning, genre-defying writer shared wisdom to students in a master class and standing room only event.
ask questionsThe unlimited world of a groundbreaking actress
Shohreh Aghdashloo discusses her award-winning career for students of USC’s Schools of Dramatic and Cinematic Arts.
Spotlight@SDAAdvice from one of your ‘Friends’
Lisa Kudrow shares career highs and lows with USC dramatic arts students.
Spotlight@SDAMargaret Cho shares stories with stand-up students
The comedian discusses her own experiences as a beginner in San Francisco.
open mic