Stage Combat The Podcast - Episode Summary: "Franki Takes A Bow"

Release Date: January 28, 2025

Introduction

In the poignant episode titled "Franki Takes A Bow," hosted by Sean Hayden of Haywood Productions, LLC, listeners are introduced to Franke Mastrone, a young actor whose journey through trauma, resilience, and healing serves as a powerful testament to speaking up against mistreatment in the theater industry. This episode delves deep into Franke's personal experiences within her BFA Theater Studies program, the systemic issues she faced, and the steps she took towards recovery and empowerment.

Frankie’s Journey: From Aspiration to Trauma

The episode begins with Sean Hayden introducing Franke Mastrone, a 20-year-old actor from Stamford, Connecticut, celebrating her successful performance in a student production at Purchase College. However, this celebration masks a harrowing backstory of sexual assault and systemic neglect.

“I feel like I'm home. I have so few words to describe it, but I really, truly feel like I'm home.” [00:40]

Franke recounts her initial excitement about enrolling in a BFA Theater Studies program in the Midwest, a decision influenced by her desire to pursue acting post-high school. However, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic prevented her from visiting the school beforehand, leading to unforeseen challenges.

“Going off to school is... already a very traumatic experience, and you are very vulnerable. And then to go into a program which is all about your vulnerability.” [04:25]

Shortly after her arrival, Franke's vulnerability was exploited when she was sexually assaulted by a much older graduate student. The trauma was compounded by the lack of immediate support, as mental health resources were either unavailable or unresponsive.

“The resources for mental health on most college campuses are not where they need to be.” [05:27]

Systemic Failures: Lack of Institutional Support

Franke details the inadequate response from her university following both the assault and subsequent bullying incidents within her cohort. When she attempted to seek help, the administration dismissed the severity of her situation, reflecting a broader systemic issue within theater programs.

“They said, well, this is serious. This is serious threats, and it was just not ever taken seriously.” [21:24]

The environment was further toxicized by misogynistic behavior from fellow students, leading to public shaming and isolation. The lack of effective institutional support left Franke feeling abandoned and exacerbated her mental health struggles.

“No, it was serious. It was serious threats, and it was just not ever taken seriously.” [21:24]

Resilience Through Community and Therapy

Despite the overwhelming adversity, Franke's story is one of resilience. After reaching a breaking point, she sought help by admitting herself to a mental health hospital, where she began the challenging path to healing. Her journey highlights the importance of finding the right support systems and advocates who can facilitate recovery.

“I started cold calling therapists. Literally probably called 20 to 30 therapists. But I finally found a therapist, and she... helped me.” [26:40]

Franke's eventual move to Purchase College marked a turning point. The supportive environment and her proactive approach to therapy allowed her to reclaim her passion for acting without the shadows of her past impeding her growth.

“I'm in a place where it's like a working relationship with the school. I'm just trying to get the education...” [38:38]

Expert Insights: Professor Jessica Webb on Trauma-Informed Teaching

Sean Hayden enriches the narrative by incorporating insights from Professor Jessica Webb of Boston Conservatory. Professor Webb emphasizes the critical need for trauma-informed approaches in theater education.

“You are your own instrument... We have to assume that everyone has trauma because you cannot be a human being on the planet without experiencing.” [30:27]

She advocates for centering students' well-being, unlearning harmful teaching methodologies, and fostering environments where students feel safe to express and process their trauma. Professor Webb’s perspective underscores the systemic changes necessary to prevent future incidents like Franke’s.

“If we are not doing that, we are harming the way that we are teaching is wrong.” [31:38]

Frankie’s Triumph: Returning to the Stage

The climax of Franke's story culminates in her return to the stage at Purchase College. Her performance symbolizes not just a personal victory but also a broader statement about overcoming institutional neglect and personal trauma.

“I really, really am [happy].” [42:22]

In her final performance of the episode, Franke reflects on her journey, acknowledging the scars yet choosing to live her life forward, free from the constraints of her past trauma.

“My past is no longer something that I think about on a daily basis... I have so much love and so... just getting to live my life every day.” [44:26]

Conclusion

"Franki Takes A Bow" serves as a compelling narrative that sheds light on the often unspoken issues within theater programs regarding student welfare and mental health. Through Franke Mastrone's courageous story and Professor Jessica Webb's expert commentary, the episode advocates for systemic change and the importance of fostering supportive environments for all artists. It underscores the necessity of speaking up, seeking help, and the transformative power of resilience.

Notable Quotes

• “It's almost like being behind a plexiglass room and you're banging on the plexiglass and yelling that this is an issue and this is something going on.” – Frankie Mastrone [02:29]

• “You are your own instrument. We don't have the luxury of having a separate nervous system...” – Professor Jessica Webb [28:50]

• “If we are not doing that, we are harming the way that we are teaching is wrong.” – Professor Jessica Webb [31:38]

• “It's so easy to quit, but you can't because it's possible. I'm proof. You, Sean, are proof we won. It's our story.” – Frankie Mastrone [42:57]

Resources Mentioned

• National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-HOPE
• Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: 988

Listeners are encouraged to reach out to these resources if they or someone they know is struggling with similar issues.

This summary aims to encapsulate the essence of "Franki Takes A Bow," highlighting the significant moments and insights shared throughout the episode. It seeks to honor Franke's story by presenting it with the depth and sensitivity it deserves, ensuring that those who haven't listened can grasp the gravity and hope interwoven in her journey.