October 15, 2024 — Marist students dove into a dynamic writers' room experience led by an acclaimed playwright and screenwriter. Noelle Viñas visited campus in September as part of the New York Stage and Film Visiting Artist Program.

The Visiting Artist Program is a new initiative from New York Stage and Film (NYSAF) and Marist College, bringing NYSAF's network of creatives to Marist's campus during the academic year.

Students enrolled in the course took part in evening classes throughout the week, exploring the creation of an interconnected world through unique characters and individual stories. The class focused on scriptwriting and writing exercises, with Viñas emphasizing public speaking and encouraging students to share their work.

"The Visiting Artist Program is a wonderful opportunity for our students to learn directly from a working writer in a challenging, but supportive experiential learning setting," said Dr. Joshua Kotzin, Associate Professor of English and Chair of the English Department. "The English Department is delighted to partner with NYSAF, and looks forward to offering unique opportunities for our students to work with and learn from a professional arts organization."

Viñas is known for her play Derecho, which debuted at La Jolla Playhouse, and her work on Mrs. Davis on Peacock. She was in residence with New York Stage and Film during the 2022 and 2023 summer seasons.

The discussion on careers in the arts, with speakers from New York Stage and Film. Photo by Julie Byron/Marist College.

The program extends beyond workshops and allows the wider campus community to engage with a wide variety of artists with different professional backgrounds and experiences.

On Friday, September 27, Adjunct Professor of English Andrew Karl moderated an open forum with professionals from New York Stage and Film, asking questions created by his Introduction to Theatre class.

"At New York Stage and Film, it’s very much about process. No matter what artists need, they're going to make it happen," Viñas said during the forum. 

The week concluded with the showcase Divergent Perspectives in Fusco Hall, featuring work written by program participants. 

The inaugural Visiting Artist Program class cohort with Noelle Viñas (fifth from the left). Photo by Julie Byron/Marist College.

Students created work that they were proud of in a format that many of them had never attempted. The event kickstarted Family Weekend, with over 60 audience members in attendance.

"Ms. Viñas was an excellent teacher who provided such rich and engaging lessons," said Kate Chorbajian '27. "She had a very high level of knowledge about her field and taught us so much about her experiences in the industry."

Marist's partnership with New York Stage and Film is highlighted in part by the annual Summer Season, which brings new theatrical and film works, industry professionals, and opportunities for students and alumni, providing a unique Broadway-style experience on campus.

This past summer, more than 35 projects were supported, nearly 250 artists were in residence, and more than 1,800 audience members attended public showcases.

The Musical Presentation of THE HEART from the New York Stage and Film 2024 Summer Season at Marist College. Photo by Deborah Lopez/New York Stage and Film.

The Visiting Artist Program is made possible through the support of The Inn at Bellefield and Marist's Office of the Executive Vice President. 

The program is the latest expansion of the partnership, bringing artists directly to students during the academic year. The program will continue in the spring semester, and students can register for the one-credit intensive during Add/Drop week.