Themes in Theatre Studies

Catalog description

Themes in Theatre Studies is a variable topics course that offers students a deep dive into a specific subject of theatre theory and history. Topics and methods vary from term to term, though each offering features an introduction to a theme, concept, methodology, or other subfield of study within theatre history and play analysis. The course offers the opportunity to build knowledge and evaluate the artistic expression of specific events, issues, and opportunities unique to theatre, dramatic theory, and performance studies. Possible subjects range from the history of mask-work on stage, witches depicted through dramatic literature, and theories of theatrical space in site-specific performance. Students develop theoretical and experiential knowledge of the topic under investigation while fostering opportunities to respond to recent events and to interpret the societal and cultural frameworks in which the concepts emerge. Students, acting as investigators, delve deeply into their topics, conducting research and exploration to create deliverables appropriate to their experience. These may include presentations, projects, and performances, all of which reflect their investigative process and findings. The topic will be announced prior to the course offering.