Diego Villada Gives Invited Workshops at Elon University

Diego Villada, assistant professor of theater, dance, and performance studies at St. Mary’s College of Maryland, was recently invited to the Department of Theatre and Dance at Elon University to lead a series of workshops focused on practical strategies for building inclusive rehearsal rooms and classrooms. Working with students across all levels—from first-year performers to advanced majors—as well as faculty, Villada facilitated interactive sessions that combined embodied practice with critical dialogue. Participants explored tools for fostering collaboration, cultivating trust, and integrating equity-minded approaches into creative processes. The visit reflects SMCM’s ongoing commitment to inclusive pedagogy and highlights Villada’s leadership in advancing consent-based, responsive practices in theater training that invites students across all backgrounds to participate fully.