Theatre for Young Audiences

Catalog description

This course explores the vibrant and evolving field of Theatre for Young Audiences (TYA). We begin with the foundational question: What is TYA? From there, we trace its history both in the United States and internationally, considering key movements, companies, and practitioners who shaped the field and those who continue to define it today. Along the way, we examine central issues in TYA, including debates about educational versus artistic priorities, representation and inclusion, the economics of producing for young audiences, and questions of developmental appropriateness. Students will investigate how theatre speaks differently to various age groups, analyzing strategies that resonate with children at different stages of psychological development. We will also practice the art of storytelling for young audiences, learning how to create original work and adapt existing stories in ways that are imaginative, respectful, and responsive to young people's perspectives.