This Veterans Day, The Lee Strasberg Theatre & Film Institute (LSTFI) hosted its first annual Veteran Voices performance with an evening of original work by LSTFI students and alumni who have served in the United States Military. The event brought together students, faculty, friends, and supporters to recognize the artistic contributions of our veteran actors and to highlight how storytelling can offer connection and expression.
This inaugural program presented a wide range of original scenes, monologues, and short films written, directed, and performed by the participating artists. Each piece reflected the distinct background and voice of its creator, while also touching on shared themes of identity, transition, and the evolving meaning of service. Together, the works formed a performance that felt thoughtful and deeply personal.
Developing the Work
The 2025 Veteran Voices cast began workshopping their material earlier this year. These collaborative sessions encouraged each artist to define the story they wanted to tell and to explore the form that best supported it — whether a live scene, a solo performance, or a short film. As ideas took shape, the group worked collectively to refine structure, staging, tone, and clarity. This process allowed each piece to stand on its own while contributing to a cohesive evening of storytelling.
The Performance
The Veterans Day presentation highlighted a distinct slate of original works including:
- “22” — Joshua Kidd & Jonathan Millan — live scene
- “Only Questions” — Christopher Gunning — short film
- “The Light” — Filipp Degtjarjov — live scene
- “Out Growing You” — Nicky Chartraw — live monologue
- “The People Vs The Promise” — Asher William — live monologue
- “Equal Lefts” — Mónique Ray & Kevin Caulfield — live scene with stage combat
- “The Cost” — Adriel Arenas — short film
Each piece brought a unique perspective to the stage. Some artists leaned into humor, while others offered quieter, introspective reflections, experimental approaches, or biting candor. The program also included choreographed stage combat coached by Lee Strasberg Theatre & Film Institute instructor, Cody Davis, featuring high energy live stunts set to N.W.A’s “Express Yourself.”
The combination of tones and artistic approaches created a multifaceted portrait of veteran experience. The day of performances presented individual viewpoints that, together, revealed the complexity of transitioning from service to civilian life and, ultimately, into artistic practice.
A Continuing Commitment
The Veteran Voices project reflects LSTFI’s ongoing commitment to supporting the veterans within our community and creating platforms for their work. To all LSTFI Military Veterans: we are grateful for your service, your presence in our community, and the stories you continue to share through your art.
We look forward to continuing LSTFI Veteran Voices in 2026!
