Clinical Associate Professor Donna Amtsberg, LCSW, is most familiar with teaching MSW students in classrooms. But recently, she had a slight change of audience – engaging with Moores School of Music students as they prepare for their latest stage play.
Every year, University of Houston Moores School of Music students perform a select number of popular musicals. Among this year’s repertoire includes Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “Carousel,” a renowned musical known for its vulnerable portrayal of domestic violence and abuse.
The depiction of such sensitive topics can be triggering for its actors, crew, and audience members. Recognizing this reality, Opera Center Artistic Director Kathleen Belcher decided to seek asubject-matter specialistswho could equip her students with the tools needed to enable a nuanced and intentional portrayal of the musical’s plot. After coming across Professor Amtsberg, she reached out and asked her to speak with her class.
Days later, Professor Amtsberg took center stage in front of Belcher’s students. She informed them of the prevalence of domestic violence across the nation and state. Her central message to the audience? Be proactive bystanders for someone suspected of experiencing abuse:“Part of the responsibility that we have as a citizen of this world is to ask that question, are you OK? Do you need help? But the bigger responsibility is knowing what to do if someone says, ‘No, I'm not OK, I need help.’ And there are many ways that you can be that advocate.”
Click to hear Clinical Associate Professor Donna Amtsberg's tips on being an advocate during Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
Students, faculty, and staff at the Graduate College of Social Work receive a 25% discounted ticket using the code SOCIAL at the time of purchase. “Carousel” will be performed at the Moores School of Music from October 22-25, 2026.