Maria Boundas Bakalis

About Maria Boundas Bakalis

I have a passion for pursuing that which makes us human-the arts tap into our inner most desires and talents. As an actor, playwright, director and educator, my objective is always the same-reach the heart and inspire the mind. The art of theatre is not limited to the performing or fine arts. Theatre has many elements that are critical in other disciplines. Theatre is a collaborative art form. It is dependent on members acting as a team with a common goal. It is interdisciplinary in nature. Theatre teaches. what I identify as life skills: Focus, concentration, listening, empathy,improvisation and tactics to overcome obstacles. It persuades without being didactic. It asks to the actor to analyze text, to search for the subtext-what is really being said. Nonverbal communication is a critical element in acting. Gestures, facial expressions, posture, walk, vocal inflection all are involved in the process of effective communication. In my workshops and seminars, I refer to the power of the imagination. Imagination is linked to creativity which inspires innovation. Initiative is a by product of taking action in the moment, assuming the responsibility involved in any leadership role. Strategic plans, visions statements, mission statements all rely not only on quantitative data but also on intuitive thinking. Conflict Management, decision making, problem solving require elements that are inherent to theatre and the performing arts. I encourage those who want to develop leadership and enhance interpersonal skills to experience the art of theatre. Be prepared for your next career audition. Take action in your life-try acting.

Experience

1. Public Speaking and Educational Consultant

   Professionally Speaking

   Oct 2022 — Present · IL, US

Education

• De Paul University

  Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), Theatre/Theater

  1963 — 1967

• Northern Illinois University

  Doctor of Education - EdD, Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas

• Northeastern Illinois University

  Master of Arts (MA), Communication and Theatre

  1972 — 1975

• Northern Illinois University

  Doctor of Education (Ed.D.), Adult and Continuing Education and Teaching

  1995 — 2001

Skills

• History
• Volunteer Management
• Classroom
• Student Affairs
• Curriculum Design
• Nonprofits
• Non-Profits
• Grants
• Courses
• Educational Leadership
• Voice Acting
• Acting
• Program Development
• Musical Theatre
• Teaching Acting
• Entertainment
• Stage
• Theatre
• Higher Education
• Student Development
• Academic Advising
• Blogging
• Distance Learning
• Research
• Educational Technology
• Acting Training
• Proofreading
• Instructional Design
• Curriculum Development
• Event Planning
• Staff Development
• Adult Education
• Resume Writing
• Teaching
• Public Speaking
• Drama
• Editing
• Fundraising
• Leadership Development
• Intercultural Communication