Theater and Dance 114 - Contemporary Performance

This course will focus on case studies of selected works and artists of contemporary performance over the last century as a means of placing the creation and practice of theater and dance in context.  We will closely consider these case studies as reflective of important aesthetic traditions and experiments in contemporary performance.  In addition, we will seek connections between the different case study examples and the social, cultural and political environments that fostered them.  We will reflect on issues of race, gender, identity, political activism, individual expression and differing collaborative structures in our encounters with these case studies.  We will also look to historical precedents and sources that inform our understanding of artistic innovations and processes. Required of  Theater and Dance majors.

This foundation course in the history/theory of performance is open to all students. Limited to 30 students.  Spring semester. Visiting Professor Eliraz.