Research Profile

Biography

Yvon Bonenfant, PhD joined the Department of Theatre at UCC as Head in September, 2018. He is also Visiting Professor of Research at the University of Winchester. 

Bonenfant is an artist-researcher. His work focuses on the voice, on sensation, and on tactility; and on questions of inclusion of different kinds of voices and bodies in culture. He is involved in the emerging field of interdisciplinary voice studies, and is a recognised innovator in research methods and transdisciplinary collaboration. 

He explores questions around the human voice and its creative power, at the intersection of theatre, performance/live art, installation, and music/sound; often leading interdisciplinary research teams. A former laureate of the Wellcome Trust Large Arts Awards, he also collaborates with researchers from speech and language science, voice and speech medicine, and vibration, materials and textile engineering, and with an array of visual and design thinkers. 

He has a burgeoning interest in vibro-tactile performance, and is key contributor to thinking about the ways the queer voice works performance and in participatory artistic processes. In collaboration with coders, visual, design, and digital artists, he develops voice-celebrating experiences for both the general public (such as We Wink, We Wink, our Voices Blink) and for hard-to-reach audiences, like children with profound and multiple learning disabilities (such as Resonant Tails). 

He is also an expert on innovative approaches to practice-inclusive research methodologies in artistic research: especially where the voice, or interdisciplinary collaboration, are concerned. 

Bonenfant produces journal articles and book chapters, but of course also makes artworks, and experiments with new forms of vocalic and tactile writing. The artworks range from performances, to participatory installations, to interactive environments, to textile 'books', and even an iPad app. His works often undergo long R+D processes and audience testing before being shown; Bonenfant has a particular interest in how non-professional 'users' of art experiences become willing to make daring vocal choices in the public sphere. 

A striking aspect of his work involves the range of its users, and of the interest it generates. In 2018, he delivered a keynote to the British Voice Association's Voice Clinics Forum - the UK's primary voice medicine and rehabilitation conference; while in 2017 he was invited by Edinburgh's Children's Festival to deliver a keynote and delegate talk about queered voicing in performance for children. In 2017-18, his works as an individual artist and with his spin-off charity Tract and Touch reached more than 220K users across different registers of the senses: sometimes visually, sometimes through sound, and sometimes through touch. 

His work has been funded by: Irish Research Council, Arts Council England, Wellcome Trust, the UK's Arts and Humanities Research Council, the British Academy, Youth Music (with Tract and Touch), Postcode Community Trust (with Tract and Touch), and many other supporters. 

Personal website www.yvonbonenfant.com
Tract and Touch (artistic director) www.tractandtouch.com
Work for children www.yourvivaciousvoice.com

Research Interests

  • Voice, extra-normal voice, queer voice
  • Live/performance art, devising practices
  • Installation, mediation, digital mediation 
  • Artistic research, practice-research, recherche-création
  • Tactility, theatres of tactility, touch and the haptic register
  • Experimentalism in the arts
  • Alternative approaches to visuality 
  • Somatic register, sensation
  • Inclusion, participation, audience participation
  • Performance and art for and with children
  • Performance and art for marginalised audiences
  • Performance and vibration, haptic technologies 
  • The future of theatre and performance
  • Music theatre, queer aesthetics, the queer spectacle



Publications

Books

 YearPublication
(2009)Soie soyeuse (Silky Silk).
Bonenfant, Yvon, with textile art by Lorna Dallas-Conte, Caroline Mercier, Casey-Ann Wasniewski, photography by Caroline Mercier. Sound engineering of included recording by Francis Silkstone. (2009) Soie soyeuse (Silky Silk). Paris: Editions Talmart. [Details]

Book Chapters

 YearPublication
(2018)'PAR Produces Plethora, Extended Voices are Plethoric, and Why Plethora Matters'
Bonenfant, Y. (2018) 'PAR Produces Plethora, Extended Voices are Plethoric, and Why Plethora Matters' In: Arlander, A., Barton, B., Dreyer-Lude, M. and Spatz B (eds). Performance as Research: Knowledge, Methods, Impact. New York: Routledge. [DOI] [Details]
(2015)'A Polyphonic Conclusion: What is Voice Studies?'
Macpherson,B. & Bonenfant Y., et al. (2015) 'A Polyphonic Conclusion: What is Voice Studies?' In: Thomaidis, K., & Macpherson B (eds). Voice Studies: Critical Approaches to Process, Performance and Experience. New York & London: Routledge. [DOI] [Details]
(2013)'An Architecture of Sensation: Explorations in Extended Voice, Flashing Light and Video Art'
Bonenfant, Y. (2013) 'An Architecture of Sensation: Explorations in Extended Voice, Flashing Light and Video Art' In: Schroeder, S (eds). Bewegungen zwischen Horen und Sehan: Denkbewegungen uber Bewegungskunste. Wurzburg: Konighausen & Neumann. [Details]
(2012)'The Opposite of Trauma: The Skin Walks'
Bonenfant, Y. (2012) 'The Opposite of Trauma: The Skin Walks' In: Arlander, A., Bonenfant, Y. with Covey-Krell M (eds). Ex-Trauma: The Opposite of Traumatic; Experiments and Intensities Series 2. Winchester: Winchester University Press. [Details]
(2009)'Acoustic/Electric (excerpt/overview of piece)'
Bonenfant, Y. & Maclaurin, A. (2009) 'Acoustic/Electric (excerpt/overview of piece)' In: Allegue, L., Jones, S., Kershaw, B., Piccini, A (eds). Practice as Research in Performance and Screen. Basingstoke: Palgrave Macmillan. [Details]
(2004)'The Visceral Voice'
Bonenfant, Y. (2004) 'The Visceral Voice' In: Morgan, K (eds). Crossing Over: Negotiating Specialization in an Interdisciplinary Culture. Regina, Canada: Canadian Plains Research Institute Press. [Details]

Peer Reviewed Journals

 YearPublication
(2018)'Children's queered voicings: questions of voiced power'
Bonenfant, Y. (2018) 'Children's queered voicings: questions of voiced power'. Performance Research, [DOI] [Details]
(2018)'Introduction: Voice, identity, contact'
Bonenfant, Y. (2018) 'Introduction: Voice, identity, contact'. Journal of Interdisciplinary Voice Studies, 3 (2):107-113 [Details]
(2018)'Diverging voices together: An interview with Sara Clethero'
Bonenfant, Y. & Clethero, S. (2018) 'Diverging voices together: An interview with Sara Clethero'. Journal of Interdisciplinary Voice Studies, 3 (2):185-194 [Details]
(2018)'Your voice is hair: Speculations toward a metaphor for styling vocal identity'
Bonenfant, Y. (2018) 'Your voice is hair: Speculations toward a metaphor for styling vocal identity'. Journal of Interdisciplinary Voice Studies, 3 (2):143-166 [DOI] [Details]
(2016)'Uluzuzulalia and the Your Vivacious Voice project: a first report on collaborating with scientists to elicit children's extra-normal voices'
Bonenfant, Y. (2016) 'Uluzuzulalia and the Your Vivacious Voice project: a first report on collaborating with scientists to elicit children's extra-normal voices'. Journal of Interdisciplinary Voice Studies, 1 (2):197-209 [DOI] [Details]
(2016)'Masz'
Bonenfant, Y., Ring, C. (2016) 'Masz'. Leonardo, [DOI] [Details]
(2013)'Writing touch in textile: talking touch in tactility'
Bonenfant, Y. (2013) 'Writing touch in textile: talking touch in tactility'. Journal of Dance & Somatic Practices, 5 (2):121-140 [DOI] [Details]
(2012)'Architecting sensation: voice, light and touch'
Bonenfant, Y. (2012) 'Architecting sensation: voice, light and touch'. Choreographic Practices, 2 (1):43-67 [DOI] [Details]
(2010)'Queer listening to queer vocal timbres'
Bonenfant, Y. (2010) 'Queer listening to queer vocal timbres'. Performance Research, 15:3 :74-80 [DOI] [Details]
(2009)'Enskinning between extended voice and movement: somatics, touch, contact and the camera'
Bonenfant, Y. (2009) 'Enskinning between extended voice and movement: somatics, touch, contact and the camera'. Journal of Dance & Somatic Practices, 1 (1):65-87 [DOI] [Details]
(2009)'Textures and translations: B(EARTH) in between extended voice and visual arts'
Allegue, L & Bonenfant, Y (2009) 'Textures and translations: B(EARTH) in between extended voice and visual arts'. Journal of Adaptation in Film & Performance, 1 (3):237-256 [DOI] [Details]
(2008)'Meditations on the challenge of skin and bone: creating between extended voice and costume'
Bonenfant, Y. (2008) 'Meditations on the challenge of skin and bone: creating between extended voice and costume'. ÉPARTS: LIAISONS ÉTUDES ET PRATIQUES DES ARTS, 1 (2):63-89 [Details]
(2008)'Sound, touch, the felt body and emotion: toward a haptic art of voice'
Bonenfant, Y. (2008) 'Sound, touch, the felt body and emotion: toward a haptic art of voice'. Scan, 5 (3)   [Details]
(2008)'Toward a politics of felt pulsation: de-disciplining voice and movement in the making of a musi-dance performance'
Bonenfant, Y. (2008) 'Toward a politics of felt pulsation: de-disciplining voice and movement in the making of a musi-dance performance'. Studies In Theatre and Performance, :39-58 [DOI] [Details]
(2006)'Acoustic/Electric: a reflective performance document of an experiment in co-creation'
Bonenfant, Y. & Maclaurin, A. (2006) 'Acoustic/Electric: a reflective performance document of an experiment in co-creation'. Body, Space & Technology, 6 (1)   [DOI] [Details]
(2006)'The embodied politics of intention, therapeutic intervention and artistic practice'
Bonenfant, Y. (2006) 'The embodied politics of intention, therapeutic intervention and artistic practice'. Body, Movement and Dance in Psychotherapy, 1 (2):115-127 [DOI] [Details]
(2004)'She came and did it and went and I came and people are coming: Gertrude Stein wrote'
Bonenfant, Y. (2004) 'She came and did it and went and I came and people are coming: Gertrude Stein wrote'. Performance Research, 9 (1):6-10 [DOI] [Details]

Published Reports

 YearPublication
(2012)PaR for the Course: Issues Involved in the Development of Practice-Based Doctorates in the Performing Arts.
Bonenfant, Y.; Boyce-Tillman, J.; Bryden, I.; de Faria, T.; Taiwo, O.; Brown, R. (2012) PaR for the Course: Issues Involved in the Development of Practice-Based Doctorates in the Performing Arts. Higher Education Academy of the United Kingdom, Online.   [Details]

Edited Books

 YearPublication
(2012)Cries from the Guts.
Bonenfant, Yvon; Edmondes, Will; Silver, Micah (2012) Cries from the Guts. Edited Books   [Details]
(2012)Ex-Trauma: The Opposite of the Traumatic.
Arlander, Annette; Bonenfant, Yvon; Krell, Mary-Agnes (2012) Ex-Trauma: The Opposite of the Traumatic. Edited Books   [Details]

Editorship

 YearPublication
(2019)Guest Edited Journal of Interdisciplinary Voice Studies 3:2 ‘Voice, Identity, Contact’.
Yvon Bonenfant (2019) Guest Edited Journal of Interdisciplinary Voice Studies 3:2 ‘Voice, Identity, Contact’. Editorship [Details]

Journal Volume Edited

 YearPublication
(2018)Voice, Identity, Contact. Journal of Interdisciplinary Voice Studies 3:2.
Yvon Bonenfant (2018) Voice, Identity, Contact. Journal of Interdisciplinary Voice Studies 3:2. Journal Volume Edited [Details]

Sound recording

 YearPublication
(2009)Soie Soyese - Artist's Book / Recording.
Yvon Bonenfant (2009) Soie Soyese - Artist's Book / Recording. Sound recording [Details]

Installation

 YearPublication
(2018)Curious Replicas.
Yvon Bonenfant (2018) Curious Replicas. Installation   [Details]
(2017)We Wink, We Wink, Our Voices Blink.
Yvon Bonenfant (2017) We Wink, We Wink, Our Voices Blink. Installation   [Details]

Multidisciplinary Project

 YearPublication
(2014)Music / Theatre / Landscape Part II.
Yvon Bonenfant (2014) Music / Theatre / Landscape Part II. Multidisciplinary Project [Details]
(2013)Music / Theatre / Landscape Part I.
Yvon Bonenfant (2013) Music / Theatre / Landscape Part I. Multidisciplinary Project [Details]
(2008)Voice / Textile / Pedagogy.
Yvon Bonenfant (2008) Voice / Textile / Pedagogy. Multidisciplinary Project [Details]
(2007)Voice / Painting / Installation / Pedagogy.
Yvon Bonenfant (2007) Voice / Painting / Installation / Pedagogy. Multidisciplinary Project [Details]

Artistic Research Projects (Production)

 YearPublication
(2018)Resonant Tails, Stage 2. Interactive Voice / Touch / Light Installation for Children with Profound and Multiple Learning Disabilities.
Yvon Bonenfant (2018) Resonant Tails, Stage 2. Interactive Voice / Touch / Light Installation for Children with Profound and Multiple Learning Disabilities. Artistic Research Projects (Production)   [Details]
(2016)Hands on Your Vibrating Voice.
Yvon Bonenfant (2016) Hands on Your Vibrating Voice. Artistic Research Projects (Production) [Details]
(2016)The Visceral Voice Touched Inside and Out.
Yvon Bonenfant (2016) The Visceral Voice Touched Inside and Out. Artistic Research Projects (Production) [Details]
(2015)Extending the Vivacious Voice: Uluzuzulalia, The Voice Trunk and Voice Bubbles - Touring Phase.
Yvon Bonenfant (2015) Extending the Vivacious Voice: Uluzuzulalia, The Voice Trunk and Voice Bubbles - Touring Phase. Artistic Research Projects (Production) [Details]
(2013)Extending the Vivacious Voice: Uluzuzulalia, The Voice Trunk and Voice Bubbles.
Yvon Bonenfant (2013) Extending the Vivacious Voice: Uluzuzulalia, The Voice Trunk and Voice Bubbles. Artistic Research Projects (Production) [Details]
(2011)Beacons - Live Show.
Yvon Bonenfant and David Shearing (2011) Beacons - Live Show. Artistic Research Projects (Production)   [Details]
(2011)MASZ - Voice-Videowork.
Yvon Bonenfant (2011) MASZ - Voice-Videowork. Artistic Research Projects (Production)   [Details]
(2010)The End of Safari - Durational / Cycling.
Micah Silver (2010) The End of Safari - Durational / Cycling. Artistic Research Projects (Production)   [Details]
(2009)Soie Soyeuse - Artist's Book / Recording.
Yvon Bonenfant, Caroline Mercier and Casey Wasniewski (2009) Soie Soyeuse - Artist's Book / Recording. Paris, France: Artistic Research Projects (Production)   [Details]
(2008)Intimacies (Videodance Version).
Yvon Bonenfant (2008) Intimacies (Videodance Version). Artistic Research Projects (Production)   [Details]
(2008)The Opposite of Trauma / Skin Walks - Durational, Cycling.
Yvon Bonenfant (2008) The Opposite of Trauma / Skin Walks - Durational, Cycling. Artistic Research Projects (Production)   [Details]
(2008)Beacons - Video Art Piece.
Yvon Bonenfant and Ludivine Allegue (2008) Beacons - Video Art Piece. Artistic Research Projects (Production)   [Details]
(2008)B(earth) Painting, Voice, Video Installation.
Yvon Bonenfant (2008) B(earth) Painting, Voice, Video Installation. Artistic Research Projects (Production)   [Details]
(2007)Soie Soyeuse (Silky Silk) - Performance.
Yvon Bonenfant (2007) Soie Soyeuse (Silky Silk) - Performance. Artistic Research Projects (Production)   [Details]
(2006)Intimacies Live Piece - Performance.
Yvon Bonenfant (2006) Intimacies Live Piece - Performance. Artistic Research Projects (Production) [Details]
(2006)Each Starry Night - Performance.
Yvon Bonenfant (2006) Each Starry Night - Performance. Artistic Research Projects (Production) [Details]
(2004)Unnamed Site-Specific Performance.
Yvon Bonenfant (2004) Unnamed Site-Specific Performance. Artistic Research Projects (Production) [Details]
(2004)Acoustic / Electric - Installation.
Yvon Bonenfant (2004) Acoustic / Electric - Installation. Artistic Research Projects (Production) [Details]
(2003)Crise Cardique.
Yvon Bonenfant (2003) Crise Cardique. Artistic Research Projects (Production) [Details]

Artistic Research Projects (R&D)

 YearPublication
(2019)Hands on Your Vibrating Voice.
Yvon Bonenfant (2019) Hands on Your Vibrating Voice. Artistic Research Projects (R&D) [Details]
(2019)Wig Show.
Yvon Bonenfant (2019) Wig Show. Artistic Research Projects (R&D) [Details]
(2019)Wig Show.
Yvon Bonenfant (2019) Wig Show. Artistic Research Projects (R&D) [Details]
(2019)Voice-Art-Able.
Yvon Bonenfant (2019) Voice-Art-Able. Artistic Research Projects (R&D) [Details]
(2019)Fashioning the Voice.
Yvon Bonenfant (2019) Fashioning the Voice. Artistic Research Projects (R&D) [Details]
(2017)Resonant Tails for Rosewood Free School (ongoing).
Yvon Bonenfant (2017) Resonant Tails for Rosewood Free School (ongoing). Artistic Research Projects (R&D)   [Details]
(2016)Hands on Your Vibrating Voice: From R&D to First Productions (ongoing).
Yvon Bonenfant (2016) Hands on Your Vibrating Voice: From R&D to First Productions (ongoing). Artistic Research Projects (R&D) [Details]
(2015)The Visceral Voice Touched Inside and Out.
Yvon Bonenfant (2015) The Visceral Voice Touched Inside and Out. Artistic Research Projects (R&D)   [Details]
(2012)Uluzuzulalia: The Voice Play Project - Research and Development Phase.
Yvon Bonenfant (2012) Uluzuzulalia: The Voice Play Project - Research and Development Phase. Artistic Research Projects (R&D) [Details]
(2006)His Hearing Aid - Performance.
Yvon Bonenfant (2006) His Hearing Aid - Performance. Artistic Research Projects (R&D) [Details]

Professional Activities

Honours and Awards

 YearTitleAwarding Body
2019Grant - Resonant Tails 2 (with Tract and Touch), €33523 Youth Music
2019Grant - Fashioning the Voice: Vocally Animated Trench Coats (with Tract and Touch), €16820 Arts Council, England
2019Grant - Wig Show: Voice / Dance Show for Children (with Tract and Touch), €16790 Arts Council, England
2019Grant - Support to Resonant Tails 2 (with Tract and Touch), €13788 Postcode Community Trust
2019Grant - Support to Writing H2020 Bid for Call Transformations 2017-19 ‘Polyvox’, €12278 Enterprise Ireland
2019Grant - New Foundations for Project Voice-Ability (with Cope Foundation), €11991 Irish Research Council
2019Pending Grant - Support to Writing ERC Consolidator Application, €14335 (result before September) Enterprise Ireland
2017Grant - Resonant Tails (with Tract and Touch), €16679 Arts Council, England
2016Production Resident - Southampton City Art Gallery Southampton City Art Gallery / Civic Centre / Culture Southampton
2016Grant - Hands on Your Vibrating Voice: R&D (with Tract and Touch), €16563 Arts Council, England
2015Grant - The Visceral Voice Touched Inside and Out (with Tract and Touch), €16785 Arts Council, England
2014Grant - Music / Theatre / Landscape Part II (with Strategic Partnership Consortium), €194000 ERASMUS+ and EU
2013Grant - Music / Theatre / Landscape Part I (with Strategic Partnership Consortium), €82000 ERASMUS+
2013Grant - Large Arts Award - follow on funding, €58193 Arts Council, England
2013Grant - Large Arts Award - follow on funding, €33600 Wellcome Trust
2013Grant - Large Arts Award, €130836 Wellcome Trust
2011Grant - Uluzuzulalia Project, €33598 Wellcome Trust
2010Grant - Beacons Tour 2010-11, €19712 Arts Council, England
2008Grant - Voice / Textile / Pedagogy, €3584 University of Winchester
2008Small Grants, €6720 British Academy
2008Grant - Practice Led Research in Performance, €22064 Arts and Humanities Research Council of the United Kingdom
2007Grant - Voice / Painting / Installation / Pedagogy, €5924 University of Winchester
2006Small Grants for the Creative and Performing Arts, €5600 Arts and Humanities Research Board, UK
2016Residency - The Point The Point, Eastleigh
2016Residency - Chelsea Theatre Chelsea Theatre, London
2011Residency - The Point Arts Theatre The Point Arts Theatre, Eastleigh
2009Residency - Experimental Media and Performing Arts Centre Experimental Media and Performing Arts Centre, RPI, USA
2009Residency - Theatre Noise Project, Central School of Speech and Drama Theatre Noise Project, Central School of Speech and Drama
2007Residency - IDEAT Université de Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne IDEAT Université de Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne
2006Residency - Mile Zero Dance Mile Zero Dance, Edmonton, Canada
2005Residency - CEPiA and University of Évora, Portugal CEPiA and University of Évora, Portugal
2005Residency - Arts Council of England Choreographic Lab Arts Council of England
2004Residency - CEPiA and University of Évora, Portugal CEPiA and University of Évora, Portugal
2000Full Tuition Scholarship Wesleyan University
2000Teaching Assistantship Wesleyan University
1989Scholarship and Work Aid Bennington College
1989Rutherford Scholarship Alberta Hedge Fund
1987Prince of Wales Scholarship Alberta Heritage Scholarship Fund

Professional Associations

 AssociationFunctionFrom / To
Performance Studies International Member/
International Federation for Theatre Research Member/
Centre for Interdisciplinary Voice Studies Collaborator and Symposium Organiser/
Society for Artistic Research Member/
Tract and Touch Ltd. Director/
A/N Artists' Network Insured Member/

Conference Contributions

 YearPublication
(2019)Internal Research Seminar, FUAIM Series, Department of Music,
Yvon Bonenfant (2019) Voice, Identity, Contact. [Invited Lectures (Conference)], Internal Research Seminar, FUAIM Series, Department of Music, UCC, Cork . [Details]
(2019)Irish Society for Theatre Research,
Yvon Bonenfant (2019) Internationalisation Invited Panellist: Practice as Research, IMBAS Panel. [Invited Lectures (Conference)], Irish Society for Theatre Research, Mary Immaculate College, University of Limerick . [Details]
(2019)Re:Sound: Media Art Histories – Sound, Media and Art – Theories, Histories, Practices,
Yvon Bonenfant (2019) Resonant Tails, Blinking Voices: Feeling the Intersensory Voice, Ability and Virtuosity. [Invited Lectures (Conference)], Re:Sound: Media Art Histories – Sound, Media and Art – Theories, Histories, Practices, University of Aalborg, Denmark . [Details]
(2018)Performer les Savoirs: The Artist as Researcher and the Researcher as Artist, Studies of a Critical Gesture in Contemporary Performance Practices,
Yvon Bonenfant (2018) Invited as Guest Round Table Member. [Invited Oral Presentation], Performer les Savoirs: The Artist as Researcher and the Researcher as Artist, Studies of a Critical Gesture in Contemporary Performance Practices, Masion des Sciences, de l'Homme, the Centre Pompidou and Théatre Nanterre Amandiers, Paris , 21-JUN-18 - 23-JUN-18. [Details]
(2018)Fashion Costume Visual Culture Conference,
Yvon Bonenfant (2018) You are Clothed in Voice: Fashioning the Voice. [Invited Lectures (Conference)], Fashion Costume Visual Culture Conference, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia . [Details]
(2018)Symposium on Voice and Identity: Touches, Textures, Timbres, University of Winchester,
Yvon Bonenfant (2018) Voice-Styling, Hair-Styling, Self-Fashioning. [Conference Organising Committee Chairperson], Symposium on Voice and Identity: Touches, Textures, Timbres, University of Winchester, Winchester . [Details]
(2018)The Artist Researcher in Performance: Situating Artistic Enquiry in Research Design,
Yvon Bonenfant (2018) Keynote Speaker with Audiences, Mirrors and Self-Styling: Touching the Extra-Normal Voice. [Keynote Speaker], The Artist Researcher in Performance: Situating Artistic Enquiry in Research Design, University of Bedfordshire , 06-JUN-18 - 08-JUN-18. [Details]
(2018)Fashion, Costume, and Visual Cultures,
Yvon Bonenfant (2018) Fashion Your Voice: Singing it as Clothing. [Invited Lectures (Conference)], Fashion, Costume, and Visual Cultures, Zagreb . [Details]
(2018)British Voice Association Voice Clinics Forum,
Yvon Bonenfant (2018) Key Note Speaker with Reaching Audiences to Reflect on the Voice: Touching on Voice Qualities. [Keynote Speaker], British Voice Association Voice Clinics Forum, Southampton . [Details]
(2017)PUSH Project Gendersaurus Rex,
Yvon Bonenfant (2017) Queer Vocal Methodologies: Celebrating the 'Othered' Voice in Children's Performance. [Invited Lectures (Workshops)], PUSH Project Gendersaurus Rex, Edinburgh . [Details]
(2017)Imaginate Children's Theatre Festival and Showcase,
Yvon Bonenfant (2017) Unruly and Vivacious: Children as Voice Artists and the Celebration of Difference. [Keynote Speaker], Imaginate Children's Theatre Festival and Showcase, Edinburgh . [Details]
(2017)Ferenc Lizst Academy Research Seminar,
Yvon Bonenfant (2017) Why Touching the Extended Voice Matters Now. [Invited Seminars/Guest Lectures], Ferenc Lizst Academy Research Seminar, Budapest, Hungary . [Details]
(2017)University of Exeter Drama Department Invited Research Seminar,
Yvon Bonenfant (2017) What Matters about the Audience's (Actual, Physical) Voice(s)? Vocality, Artistic Process, Plethora and Research. [Invited Seminars/Guest Lectures], University of Exeter Drama Department Invited Research Seminar, Exeter . [Details]
(2016)University of Arts, Stockholm Invited Research Seminar,
Yvon Bonenfant (2016) Vivacious Voicing: Between Professional Production and Artistic Research Processes. [Invited Seminars/Guest Lectures], University of Arts, Stockholm Invited Research Seminar, University of the Arts, Stockholm . [Details]
(2016)Symposium of the Music/Theatre/Landscape Consortium,
Yvon Bonenfant (2016) Between Voice, Touch and Landscape Architecture: New Dramaturgies, New Compositional Approaches. [Invited Oral Presentation], Symposium of the Music/Theatre/Landscape Consortium, University of the Arts, Stockholm . [Details]
(2015)4th International Occupational Voice Symposium,
Yvon Bonenfant (2015) Contact, Mirrors and Gymnastics: What Science, Art and the Voice Can Do Together. [Invited Oral Presentation], 4th International Occupational Voice Symposium, University College London . [Details]
(2015)University of Surrey Practice as Research Festival,
Yvon Bonenfant (2015) Practice as Research Now - A Roundtable with Christopher Baugh, Yvon Bonenfant and Libby Worth. Invited Panellist. [Invited Oral Presentation], University of Surrey Practice as Research Festival, University of Surrey, UK . [Details]
(2015)11th International Conference on Advances in Quantitative Laryngology, Voice and Speech Research,
Yvon Bonenfant (2015) Contact, Mirrors and Gymnastics: What Science, Art and the Voice Can Do Together. [Invited Oral Presentation], 11th International Conference on Advances in Quantitative Laryngology, Voice and Speech Research, University College London . [Details]
(2014)International Federation for Theatre Research Main Conference,
Yvon Bonenfant (2014) They Make Noise: Plethora, Plenitude, Power and Performance as Research. [Invited Lectures (Conference)], International Federation for Theatre Research Main Conference, Coventry . [Details]
(2014)Symposium Le Processus Creatif,
Yvon Bonenfant (2014) Votre voix vive: pléthore, plénitude, pouvoir et les enjeux de la recherche-création. [Invited Lectures (Conference)], Symposium Le Processus Creatif, University of Paris 1 Panthéon - Sorbonne . [Details]
(2014)Impossible Constellation Event,
Yvon Bonenfant (2014) Extending the Vivacious Voice. [Invited Seminars/Guest Lectures], Impossible Constellation Event, University of Lincoln, Lincoln . [Details]
(2014)Royal Conservatoire of Scotland Invited Research Seminar,
Yvon Bonenfant (2014) Vivacious Voice in Action: Problems, Processes and Potentials. [Invited Seminars/Guest Lectures], Royal Conservatoire of Scotland Invited Research Seminar, Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, Glasgow . [Details]
(2013)Art and Knowledge: Making Sense of the Sensible,
Yvon Bonenfant (2013) Grappling with the Vivacious Voices: Uluzuzulalia, Somatic Experience, Plundering and the Research Paradigm. [Keynote Speaker], Art and Knowledge: Making Sense of the Sensible, University of Arts Helsinki, Theatre Academy . [Details]
(2012)Sounding the Whirlwind Symposium,
Yvon Bonenfant (2012) Using the Tools of the Avant-Garde to Make Performance for Children. [Conference Organising Committee Member], Sounding the Whirlwind Symposium, The Point, Eastleigh . [Details]
(2012)Research Seminar with Professor Catherine Best of MARCS labs,
Yvon Bonenfant (2012) Vocal Discoveries: Speech and Language Bioscience and Creative Futures. [Keynote Speaker], Research Seminar with Professor Catherine Best of MARCS labs, University of Western Sydney . [Details]
(2012)International Federation for Theatre Research Main Conference,
Yvon Bonenfant (2012) A Portrait of the Current State of PaR: Defining an (In)discipline. [Invited Lectures (Conference)], International Federation for Theatre Research Main Conference, Santiago da Chile . [Details]
(2011)Pieces to Fit,
Yvon Bonenfant (2011) Member of Panel Facilitated by Dance and Technology Scholar Claudia Kappenberg. [Invited Lectures (Conference)], Pieces to Fit, Nightingale Theatre, Brighton . [Details]
(2011)Practice as Research Symposium,
Yvon Bonenfant (2011) Voicing Practice: An Invited Practice-Led Research Keynote Presentation. [Keynote Speaker], Practice as Research Symposium, University of Portsmouth in London . [Details]
(2011)Invited Research Seminar, University of Newcastle Music Department,
Yvon Bonenfant (2011) Making Voice from Touch, Making Touch from Image. [Invited Seminars/Guest Lectures], Invited Research Seminar, University of Newcastle Music Department, University of Newcastle upon Tyne . [Details]
(2010)University of Sussex Invited Research Seminar,
Yvon Bonenfant (2010) Extra-Normal Architectures of the Haptic: Voice, Light, Video from the Living to the Dead. [Invited Seminars/Guest Lectures], University of Sussex Invited Research Seminar, University of Sussex, UK . [Details]
(2010)Centre for Creative Practice, Ireland and Music Theatre Departments,
Yvon Bonenfant (2010) Making Voice from Touch, Making Touch from Image. [Invited Seminars/Guest Lectures], Centre for Creative Practice, Ireland and Music Theatre Departments, Dublin . [Details]
(2010)Sound Thoughts Festival,
Yvon Bonenfant (2010) Member of Panel, Talking about Music - is it like Dancing About Architecture?. [Invited Oral Presentation], Sound Thoughts Festival, The Arches, Glasgow . [Details]
(2010)Central School for Speech and Drama Seminar Series,
Yvon Bonenfant (2010) Beacons Research Seminar. [Invited Seminars/Guest Lectures], Central School for Speech and Drama Seminar Series, UK . [Details]
(2010)Song, Stage, Screen V,
Yvon Bonenfant (2010) Queer Listening to Queer Timbres. [Invited Lectures (Conference)], Song, Stage, Screen V, Winchester . [Details]
(2010)International Federation for Theatre Research,
Yvon Bonenfant (2010) Repetition of Tactilities: The Living and the Dead. [Invited Lectures (Conference)], International Federation for Theatre Research, Munich . [Details]
(2009)International Federation for Theatre Research,
Yvon Bonenfant (2009) Reach / Voice / Light: An Architect of Sensation. [Invited Lectures (Conference)], International Federation for Theatre Research, Lisbon . [Details]
(2009)Movements Between Hearing and Seeing,
Yvon Bonenfant (2009) Toward the Haptic in Audiovisual Media: The Reaching Skin, Reaching Light and Reaching Voice. [Invited Lectures (Conference)], Movements Between Hearing and Seeing, Bayreuth . [Details]
(2009)International Federation for Theatre Research Main Conference,
Yvon Bonenfant (2009) Sobbing in the Public Sphere: Extended Voice, 'Grief' and Emotional Activism. [Invited Lectures (Conference)], International Federation for Theatre Research Main Conference, Lisbon . [Details]
(2008)Cultures of Translation: Adaptation in Film and Performance,
Yvon Bonenfant (2008) B(earth). [Invited Lectures (Conference)], Cultures of Translation: Adaptation in Film and Performance, Cardiff . [Details]
(2008)Faire Ceuvre: Transparence et Opacité International Conference,
Yvon Bonenfant (2008) Textures: rencontres entre la voix étendue et la plasticité, ou de la corporéité au souffle. [Invited Lectures (Conference)], Faire Ceuvre: Transparence et Opacité International Conference, Québec . [Details]
(2008)Performance Studies International 10th International Conference,
Yvon Bonenfant (2008) Silk, Space, Skin, Sound: Voice, Proximity, Intimacy and Sensation. [Invited Lectures (Conference)], Performance Studies International 10th International Conference, Copenhagen . [Details]
(2008)International Federation for Theatre Research Main Conference,
Yvon Bonenfant (2008) The Sensory and Felt Relationship: The Impossibility / The Joy of Transmission. [Invited Lectures (Conference)], International Federation for Theatre Research Main Conference, Seoul . [Details]
(2008)Esthétique et Cognition,
Yvon Bonenfant (2008) Le temps de la peinture, le temps de la voix. [Invited Lectures (Conference)], Esthétique et Cognition, Paris . [Details]
(2007)Improvisation Continuums International Conference,
Yvon Bonenfant (2007) Extended Voice, Intense Gesture: The Sourcing of Performance for Voice and Body in Felt Pulsation and Passionate Emotion, and its Relationship to a Pulsing Audience. [Invited Lectures (Conference)], Improvisation Continuums International Conference, Cardiff . [Details]
(2007)University of Winchester Internal Research Series,
Yvon Bonenfant (2007) Silk, Tactility and Touch. [Invited Oral Presentation], University of Winchester Internal Research Series, University of Winchester . [Details]
(2007)University of Northampton Research Seminar Series in Dance,
Yvon Bonenfant (2007) Pulsing, Popping, Feeling and Incarnating: A Long Distance Touch and Response. [Invited Seminars/Guest Lectures], University of Northampton Research Seminar Series in Dance, Northampton, UK . [Details]
(2006)International Changing Body Symposium on Performer Training,
Yvon Bonenfant (2006) The Psycho-Organic Circle and Somato-Emotional States. [Invited Lectures (Conference)], International Changing Body Symposium on Performer Training, Exeter . [Details]
(2006)Beyond Settling for Hope: Bioemotional Activism and Performance,
Yvon Bonenfant (2006) Guest Lecturer by Invitation of the Department of Philosophy. [Invited Seminars/Guest Lectures], Beyond Settling for Hope: Bioemotional Activism and Performance, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada . [Details]
(2006)The Future of Performing Arts in British HE: Progressive Approaches,
Yvon Bonenfant (2006) Guest Lecturer by Invitation of the School of Arts and Media. [Invited Seminars/Guest Lectures], The Future of Performing Arts in British HE: Progressive Approaches, University of Teeside . [Details]
(2006)International Federation for Theatre Research World Conference,
Yvon Bonenfant (2006) Costume, Voice, Body: From Costume Extended Voice. [Invited Lectures (Conference)], International Federation for Theatre Research World Conference, Helsinki . [Details]
(2005)Performance Studies International 11,
Yvon Bonenfant (2005) Uncomfortable Extremes: Towards Bioemotional Activism Hybrid Performance / Paper. [Invited Lectures (Conference)], Performance Studies International 11, Providence . [Details]
(2005)PALATINE Practice as Research Symposium,
Yvon Bonenfant (2005) Practice as Research in the Undergraduate Curriculum in Performing Arts at the University of Winchester. [Invited Lectures (Conference)], PALATINE Practice as Research Symposium, Preston . [Details]
(2005)PARIP (Practice as Research in Performance),
Yvon Bonenfant (2005) Acoustic / Electric. [Invited Lectures (Conference)], PARIP (Practice as Research in Performance), Leeds . [Details]
(2004)Giving Voice 8,
Yvon Bonenfant (2004) Gut Feelings, Dynamic Voicings: Psychologies of the Vocal Body. [Invited Lectures (Conference)], Giving Voice 8, Aberystwyth and Cardiff . [Details]
(2004)Political Futures: Alternative Theatre in Britain Today,
Yvon Bonenfant (2004) Yoking Together Resistance, Defiance and Seduction: Bioemotional Activism and Relationship in Performance. [Invited Lectures (Conference)], Political Futures: Alternative Theatre in Britain Today, Reading . [Details]
(2003)PARIP (Practice as Research in Performance),
Yvon Bonenfant (2003) Crise cardiaque. [Invited Lectures (Conference)], PARIP (Practice as Research in Performance), Bristol . [Details]
(2003)Creation and Creativity in Light of Rorschach: Clinical and Psychopathological Approaches,
Yvon Bonenfant (2003) Corporeal Gesture / Vocal Gesture: Spontaneity and the Temporal Form of the Personality Presented (in French). [Invited Lectures (Conference)], Creation and Creativity in Light of Rorschach: Clinical and Psychopathological Approaches, Chambery . [Details]
(2003)Composition for the Body: The Theatrical Body in Music,
Yvon Bonenfant (2003) Invited Guest Lecturer by Music Department. [Invited Seminars/Guest Lectures], Composition for the Body: The Theatrical Body in Music, York University, York, UK . [Details]
(2002)Negotiating Specialisation in an Interdisciplinary Culture,
Yvon Bonenfant (2002) The Visceral Voice at Crossing Over. [Invited Lectures (Conference)], Negotiating Specialisation in an Interdisciplinary Culture, Regina . [Details]

Committees

 CommitteeFunctionFrom / To
School Executive Management Committee, UCC Departmental Rep2018 /
Department of Theatre Committees: Research Student, Research, Operational Chair2018 /
Programme committee Doctor of Creative Arts Chair2015 / 2018
Faculty of Arts Research and Creative Practice Committee UoA 35 Rep2010 / 2018
Programme committee BA Contemporary Performance Member2010 / 2016
University of Winchester Programme Committee: MA Devised Performance Member2009 / 2011
University of Winchester Senate Research and Knowledge Committee Member2008 / 2009
University of Winchester Unit of Assessment 35 Research Strategy Group Member2008 /
University of Winchester Working Group on Academic Structure Member2008 / 2009
University of Winchester Academic Directors' Working Group Member2008 / 2009
University of Winchester Business Advisory Group Member2008 / 2009
University of Winchester Quality Audit Working Group Member2008 / 2009
University of Winchester Research Degrees Quality Committee and Ethics Subcommittee Member2008 / 2009
University of Winchester Senate Research and Knowledge Exchange Ethics Committee Member2008 / 2009
University of Winchester Research and Excellence Framework Working Group Member2008 /
University of Winchester Senate Member2008 / 2009
University of Winchester Planning and Resources Committee Member2008 / 2009
University of Winchester Research into Expanded Dramaturgies Research Group Member2007 / 2010
University of Winchester Faculty of Arts Research and Knowledge Exchange Committee Member2006 /
University of Winchester UoA QR Selection Subcommittee Member2006 /
University of Winchester Performance Committee: BA Contemporary Performance Member2005 /

Employment

 EmployerPositionFrom / To
University College Cork Head of Department, Theatre03-SEP-18 /
University of Winchester Seconded (temporary) Administrative Role: Director of Research and Knowledge Exchange03-SEP-08 / 20-AUG-09
University of Winchester Professor of Artistic Process, Voice and Extended Practices. Programme Leader and co-developer of the Doctor of Creative Arts01-FEB-05 / 20-AUG-18
Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh Lecturer/Programme Leaders in Drama and Theatre Arts01-FEB-04 / 01-FEB-05
Northumbria University Lecturer in Performance01-NOV-02 / 01-JAN-04

Education

 YearInstitutionQualificationSubject
2010University of Winchester PhD (Performing Arts)Immersive intensities and transdisciplinary adventure: extended voice, tactility, and intermedia from the living to the dead
2002Wesleyan University MA in World Music: experimental music compositionBody Contact: Deep Expression, Relationship and the Visceral Voice
1999Québec Psychotherapist Training Institute ( Ecole Québécoise de Formation de Pscychothérapeutes Professional Diploma in Psychocorporeal AnalysisPhysical aspects of the emotional voice in the chemotherapeutic relationship; voice as symbolic touch, literal transference and counter-transference via vocal tactility
1996Athabasca University Bachelor of General StudiesArts and Science
1991Bennington College 2 years full time study with credits transferred to Athabasca UniversityFine and Liberal Arts (music, visual arts, ecology, astronomy, French)
1989United World College of the Atlantic DiplomaMusic, Asian History, English HL; French, Applied Chemistry, Mathematics SL.

Languages

 LanguageReadingWritingSpeaking
French FluentFunctionalFluent
English FluentFluentFluent

Journal Activities

 JournalRoleTo / From
Feminist Media Studies Referee-
International Journal Of Performance Arts & Digital Media Referee-
Studies In Theatre And Performance Referee-
Journal Of Interdisciplinary Voice Studies Referee-
Scan Referee-
Journal Of Dance & Somatic Practices Referee-
Body, Movement And Dance In Psychotherapy Referee-
Journal Of Interdisciplinary Voice Studies Member of Editorial Board-
Choreographic Practices Member of Editorial Board-
Choreographic Practices Referee-

Other Activities

 Description

Programmatic External Examiner

  • BA Drama, University of Kent at Canterbury, 2017-(ongoing) 
  • MA Community Dance Leadership, University of Bedfordshire, from autumn 2012; MA Choreographic Practices, University of Bedfordshire, from 2014 onward (term ended early 2017)

Guest Teaching and Workshops

  • 2022 (forthcoming) Crawford College of Art, Munster Technological University, Resonant Tails: Engaging Children with PMLD
  • 2022 Leveraging conjoined arts and research funding, for University of Winchester
  • 2020 European Research Strategy, with Professor Griff Rollefson
  • 2019 Crawford College of Art, Munster Technological University, Voice, Textile and Hapticity
  • 2017 (February 2-3) Exploring queered vocal performance for and with child audiences for the Imaginate Festival’s ‘Gendersaurus Rex’, as part of the Creative Europe-funded PUSH project, Edinburgh
  • 2017 (January 14-15) Lizst Academy Budapest, Masterclass in vocal improvisation 
  • 2017, 2016 Project management workshops for complex research projects
  • 2016, 2013 York St John University Experimental Voice and Devising Practices 
  • 2014-15 University of Winchester: Three external funding development workshops 
  • 2013 University of the Arts Helsinki The Tactile Register and Creative Process
  • 2013 Leeds Metropolitain University, PAR Futures: The Way Forward, May 
  • 2011 Leeds University Voice, Light, Devising 
  • 2011 Portsmouth University Voice and the Haptic Register (Extending the Voice) 
  • 2011 Exeter University Voice and the Haptic Register (Extending the Voice) 
  • 2011 The Arches Glasgow Voice and the Haptic Register (Extending the Voice) 
  • 2011 Bristol University Voice and the Haptic Register (Extending the Voice)
  • 2011 University College Falmouth Voice, Light, Devising
  • 2011 University of Newcastle upon Tyne: Somatic Approaches to Free Improvisation, February 
  • 2010 University of Winchester: Preparing Practice-Led Submission to the REF, half-day workshop, October 
  • 2010 Irish World Academy of Music and Dance, University of Limerick, Ireland; 5-day Arts Practice Encounters Workshop, (with Ruth Hellier-Tinoco), June
  • 2009 Starting a Research Profile for new staff, University of Winchester
  • 2008 Funding Opportunities for new staff, University of Winchester 
  • 2007-14 Conference Papers given for hybrid workshop-papers developed for the Performance as Research Working Group of the IFTR. 
  • 2006 Mile Zero Dance, Edmonton, Alberta 
  • 2003, 2004 CEPiA and University of Evora, Portugal 
  • 2000 Practice-Led Research – Emerging Opportunities, University of West of Scotland, Ayr

Teaching Activities

Teaching Interests


Bonenfant's teaching experience includes a wide array of modules in devised performance, interdisciplinary performance making, theatre and performance histories and theory, voice practice and study, and research methods - including practice-based methods within artistic research or research-creation. He teaches through both theoretical and experiential modalities.  

He has taught at UG, PG and doctoral levels. An explanatory chart of teaching is listed below.


ROLE CODES
MC = module coordinator
T = teaching tutor
W = workshop leader
TD = teaching director of student performance
S = skills teacher


TEACHING DOMAINS
CDP = Composition and/or devising performance process and product (création)
AQP = Activist/Queer
V = Vocal technique or Extended Voice
TV = Theories of Voice, including voice studies, theatrological and musical structures
PT = Theories of performance across disciplines
I = Intermediality, including arts and technology
MPAR = Methodologies and Practice-as-Research
MT = Performer-created (devised) music theatre (contemporary) and sound art
D = Directing
B = Physical performance
H = History of performance
SV = Site and Visuality

TEACHING LEVELS
1 = 1ST YEAR UG
2 = 2ND YEAR UG
3 = 3RD (HONOURS) YEAR UG
4 = GRADUATE/POST-GRADUATE
5 = DOCTORAL THESIS LEVEL


Undergraduate and Postgraduate at UCC
  • DR2027 Theatre and Performative Practices 3: UG2; MC,T, W; CDP, H, PT, MT, SV
  • DR2009 Cultures of Voicing 1: UG2; MC, T, W, S; V, B
  • DR3017 Cultures of Voicing 2: UG3; MC, T, W; V, B
  • DR6001 Collaboration in Theatre and Performative Practices: UG4; MC, T, W, S; CDP, AQT, PT, D, H, MPAR
  • DR6002 Composition in Theatre and Performative Practices: UG4; MC, T, W, S; CDP AQT, PT, D, H, MPAR
  • DR6004/5/6 Research Dissertations (including practice-inclusive dissertations): UG4; MC, T, S; MPAR, CDP, AQT, PT, D, H, MPAR

Undergraduate Before UCC
  • Acting, Voice and Movement: UG1; MC, T, W, S; V, B
  • Applied Performance: UG2 & 3; MC, T, W, S; CPD, I, D, PT, MT
  • Between Speech and Song 1: UG1; MC, T, W, S; V, B, TV 
  • Between Speech and Song 2: UG2; MC, T, W, S; V, B, TV
  • Company Production Project: UG3; MC, TD; CDP, D, I, PT, MT, SV
  • Contemporary Performance in Action: UG3; MC, T, W; CDP, I, D, PT, H, MPAR
  • Cross-Disciplinary Devising: UG2; MC, T, W, S; I, CDP,  D, SV
  • Devised (Experimental) Music Theatre: UG2; MC, T, W, S; MT
  • Dramaturgies and Histories: UG 1 & 2; T; H, PT
  • Devising: UG1 & 2; MC, T, W; CDP, H, PT, MT, SV
  • Extending the Voice: UG3; MC, T, W, S, TD;V, B, TV
  • Final Year (Honours) Project: UG3; MC, T, W, TD; V, MT, CDP, PT, D, MPAR
  • Performance Elements: UG1; MC, T, W, S; V. B
  • Performance Histories: UG1; MC, T; H
  • Performance Skills: UG1; MC, T, W; V, B
  • Performance Theory: UG2 & 3; MC, T; PT, I
  • Physical Theatres: UG2; MC, T, W; CDP, B, V
  • Productions: UG3; MC, TD; CDP, D
  • Theories of Voice: UG3; MC, T; TV, PT, MPAR

Post-Graduate

  • Advanced Performance Project: PG4; MC, T; PT, D, MPAR
  • Devising and the Performer: PG4; MC, T, W, TD; CDP, I, PT 
  • Gateway to Independent Study: PG4; MC, T; PT, MPAR
  • Independent Study (Dissertations): PG4; MC, T; PT, CDP, I, MPAR
  • Research Methods: PG4; MC, T; PT, MPAR
  • Studios 1 & 2 (Doctor of Creative Arts): PG4 & 5; MC, T; MPAR, CDP

PhDs Examined

  • 2022: (pending, October) (External), Laura Fanouillet, Université Grenoble-Alpes (France), 'Danse et philosophie vivante: le laboratoire d'un entrainement quotidien,' [Choreography/dance/artistic research/engineering technologies.]
  • 2021: (Internal), Leslie Burton, University College Cork, 'Enchanting things: Practice encounters with material performatives,' [Department of Theatre].
  • 2021: (External), Ilona Krawczyk, University of Huddersfield, 'Embodying voice in training and performance: a process-orientated approach.' [Department of Theatre].
  • 2020: (External), Shannon Holmes, University of Birmingham, 'Ephemeral repetitions: deconstructing vocal technique and freeing spontaneous expression for authentic vocal performance.' [Drama and Theatre Arts Department].
  • 2019: (Internal), Richard (Tosh) Molloy, University College Cork, 'Transfunctionality: a compositional approachf or expanding the horizons of acoustic instruments.' [Department of Music].
  • 2017: (External) Nina Perry, Bournemouth University, ‘Music, narrative, voice and presence: revealing a composed feature methodology’ [Media Art Department]
  • 2016: (External) Sara Matchett, University of Cape Town, South Africa, ‘Breath-Body-Self: an exploration of the body as a site for generating images for performance making’ [Theatre Department]
  • 2016: (Internal) Jo Walker, ‘Equipping pupils to steer the road of adolescence: the innovation and impact of AS Tracking: an educational tool to assess, support and track pupil self-regulation’ [Professional Doctorate]
  • 2015: (Internal) Catherine Seago, ‘Evolving Motion: Examining Flux in Choreographic Practice’ [Perf. Arts. Dept., Choreography and Dance]
  • 2015: (External) Greshauna Hannabiell Sanders, University of Newcastle upon Tyne, ‘Creative Practice as Political Engagement’ [Music Dept: Music Composition and Improvisation]
  • 2013: (External) Mary Oliver, University of Salford, ‘The Digital Performer: Performance, Technology and New Performance Paradigms’ [Theatre Department: Performance and New Media]
  • 2011: (External) Karen Savage, University of Portsmouth, ‘Fading-Feminism-Practice-Process: a Practice as Research Exploration into the Fade as a Cite for Ecriture Féminine’ [Media department: Digital media/performance/visual art

Current PhD Students:
  • Kate Holden (1st supervisor), who is investigating 'femme ghosting' as an enhancement of Roy Hart Theatre's historically constructed range of devising processes.
  • Conall Ó Riain (1st supervisor), who is investigating artist support systems and artist thinking and needs in the development of infrastructural supports to the theatre industry.
  • Catherine Owens (1st supervisor), who is investigating new methods of engaging audiences in artist-driven, rather than commercially driven, artistic approaches to immersive VR/AR.

PhD Supervisions to Completion:


2015: Synne Behrndt, ‘Discursive Spaces: Toward New Dramaturgies’ [Performing Arts Department] 


Undergraduate Research Apprenticeships Supervised:
  • 2022 (ongoing): Luke Maziarek, Impact in artistic research: the challenge of developing impact narratives
  • 2020: Saoirse Ferris, PMLD, complex disAbility and digital performance
  • 2019: Micheál O Coileain, Reviewing writing about theatre for/by people with disAbilities
  • 2018: David O'Brien, Exploring emerging technologies and how objects perform
  • 2015: Aleski Lehtinen, Exploring qualitative methods for understanding audience response to The Voice Trunk
  • 2014: Christine Roche, Reviewing literature: aesthetics of the historical avant-garde and children's performance
  • 2013: Kora Kirby, Feedback collection: drawings and pictures as metaphors for child audience experience

Programme Development:

  • 2016-17 Co-developed and co-validated the new MA provision framework for the Department of Performing Arts: MA Theatre Studies, MA Dance, MA Musical Theatre Studies, MA Dance in the Community.   
  • 2014-15 Co-redeveloped Vocal and Choral Studies, Music Theatre and Performing Arts undergraduate degrees, Faculty of Arts, University of Winchester.  
  • 2010-11 Co-developed new professional doctorate focusing on theory-pratice integrated arts research, the Doctor of Creative Arts. A hybrid alternative doctoral strategy for working arts professionals delivered in a cohort system.     
  • 2010 Developed workshop series for MA students exploring their options post-graduation. Sessions included: ‘Applying for a PhD: Why? How? How to Afford it?’; ‘Job-seeking with an arts-based MA’; ‘Starting an Arts Practice or a Company’; and ‘Teaching Certification’.
  • 2009 Co-wrote the new combined honours undergraduate option Vocal and Choral Studies, the first of its kind in the UK to integrate singing and speech studies from theatrical and musical perspectives. 
  • 2009 Co-wrote the redesigned BA Contemporary Performance. Particular emphasis and input on the re-designed modular structure and increased emphasis on interdisciplinarity and strategies for helping students integrate interdisciplinary knowledges.    
  • 2008-9 Worked in conjunction with Prof June Boyce-Tillman, Chair of Research Degrees Quality Committee, to adapt, re-think and re-work PhD degree study system and regulations at Winchester and moved our students from validation by Southampton University in-house. 
  • 2008 Co-wrote the MA Devised Performance, a degree looking at interdisciplinary performance compositional practice, with a strong cross-disciplinary emphasis.
  • 2006 – 8 Restructured, managed and coordinated level 1 of the BA Performing Arts Programme, University of Winchester, to be redelivered as a true unified experience within which modules inform one another across the learning experience.
  • 2004-5  Spearheaded the redesign of the Drama and Theatre Arts Degree at Queen Margaret University, including the expansion of level 3 & 4 options to include contemporary performance practice and extended voice. 

Module Development:
  • 2016 Developed and delivered a new method of teaching that brings together critical approaches from gender studies, queer studies, performance studies, and binds them to songwriting, vocal improvisation, voice studies, new technologies, stage practice, live art, and image-fashioning. 
  • 2015 Developed and delivered advanced seminar ‘Theorising the Voice’, bringing together emerging perspectives from the hard sciences, emerging voice philosophies, cultural/performance studies of the voice, and artistic case studies to explore the relationship between voice quality, ‘identity’, cultural intervention, and aesthetic practices.   
  • 2012, 2013, 2014 Developed and delivered ground-breaking ‘Extending the Voice’ module for Vocal and Choral Studies students, introducing them to embodied research processes across four conceptual frameworks: cross-cultural practices; theatrically derived practices; musically derived practices; and hyperemotional techniques.
  • 2010 Developed curricular content for module ‘Between Speech and Song’, the first vocal studies module of its kind in the United Kingdom, bringing together singing technique, extended voice technique, speech technique and critical engagement with a wide range of voice-pedagogical theories into one learning experience.   
  • 2010 Redeveloped Research Methods strand for MA Devised Performance to include more focused attention on rigour in practice-led methodological engagements, and more emphasis on the practical application of research methodologies (responding to the student concerns: What makes my work research? And how can research help my practice?)   
  • 2009, 2010 Developed and extended, subsequent to student feedback, the module ‘Devising and the Performer’, a theory-practice integrated exploration of the ways the ‘self’ can act as source material for compositional strategies, borrowing from musical, theatrical, live/performance art, visual art and installation traditions.   
  • 2009 With Dr Millie Taylor, expanded the curricular content of Devised Music Theatre specialist module to include emphasis on relationship between voice and cultural studies/performance studies/theoretical frameworks that help students critically engage with their sense of vocal identity.   
  • 2008, 2009 With Dr Millie Taylor, revised and restructured Honours Project at undergraduate level to re-frame rules, grading structures, criteria and learning outcomes around Honours Project work to ensure fairness, parity and research-led delivery strategies across five different models, ranging from the theoretical to the practical and hybridizations of these. 
  • 2006, 2007, 2008 Extensively re-developed content of Level 1 Devising; Level 1 Performance & Academic Skills, Level 1 Performance. I designed: a cross-modular delivery strategy, an integrated cross-modular assessment strategy, new theory-practice exercises and links, cross-modular reading strategies and a progressive skills acquisition framework for these.   
  • 2004-5 Developed ‘Contemporary Performance in Action’ Level 3 & 4 honours specialization for Queen Margaret University and ran first cohort; theory-practice integrated. Re-developed Honours Project structures for Queen Margaret University.   
  • 2002-4 Re-developed Skills Acquisition strand (with Kat Moraitis) and Performance Theory module for Northumbria University’s BA Performance Programme to create a proper skills development framework.   
  • 2001-2 Developed and ran ‘Biodynamic Voicework and Bodywork’ group class and individual tutorials for Wesleyan University Music Department, Wesleyan University, USA.2022: (pending, October) (External), Laura Fanouillet, Université Grenoble-Alpes (France), ‘Danse et philosophie vivante: le laboratoire d'un entraînement quotidien,’ [Choreography/dance/artistic research/engineering technologies.] 

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University College Cork

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