The Current Use of Standard Dialects in Speech Practice and Pedagogy: A Mixed Method Study Examining the VASTA Community in the United States

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study explores standard dialects in collegiate actor-training and professional coaching environments. While extensive theoretical literature exists on standard dialects in theatre training, few formal research studies exist. In this mixed methods study, quantitative and qualitative data were collected through (1) expert interview with linguists, professional actors, and voice professionals; (2) surveys from United States voice teachers and coaches (VASTA members); and (3) post-survey expert interviews. This examined perceived standard dialects, pedagogy, and professional coaching applications. The three key results were: (1) there is little dialect uniformity in the field; (2) current classical productions mostly utilize General American; and (3) there is a significant correlation between a participant’s graduate degree and the standard dialect(s) they teach. The theme of inclusivity arose in the follow-up expert interviews. While this topic requires further research, it has pedagogical implications for speech training for actors including self-reflexivity and the use of standard dialect alternatives.