Jessica Mumford’s choreography is a Case Study

Who
Jessica Mumford is an MFA candidate in ASU Herberger College Dance.

What
Mumford presents her applied thesis choreography project, Case Study, which combines dance, theater and media art into a full-length work. Her presentation aims to explore the ethics behind conducting research with human subjects. Mumford investigated how collaborating with an interdisciplinary group of artists, including students in the Arts, Media and Engineering (AME) program could reshape and enhance a performance piece.

Case Study is based on the narrative of 26-year-old Diane Murdock and a team of scientists studying her from a rogue research institute called Sector 16. Murdock refuses to leave her home, due to her severe case of social anxiety. Sector 16 documents Murdock’s every move, though she is unaware of the institute’s existence. By delving into the complex relationship between subject and researcher, Case Study explores how good intentions can be misdirected and distorted by unreasonable goals and the desire for success. 

Where
Digital Arts Ranch, Tower Center building B, 123 E. University Drive, ASU Tempe campus

When
Feb. 27, 6:30 p.m.; Feb. 28, 7 p.m.; March 1, 2 p.m. Every performance is followed by a post-show dialogue with the choreographer and other collaborative artists.

Cost
Free

Public Contact
Jessica Mumford
ASU Herberger College Dance 
Master of Fine Arts candidate
480.965.5029
jjmumfor@asu.edu

The School of Theatre and Film in the Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts at Arizona State University provides a comprehensive range of courses in performance and directing; design and production; new work development; theatre and performance studies; film; and theatre for youth. Its Theatre for Youth program is nationally ranked in the top three and the dramatic writing/playwriting program is ranked 15th among public institutions by U.S.News & World Report. To learn more about the School of Theatre and Film, visit theatrefilm.asu.edu.

Media Contact:
Jessica Mumford
ASU Herberger College Dance 
Master of Fine Arts candidate
480.965.5029
jjmumfor@asu.edu