Trends in Contemporary Theater

DESCRIPTION:
Study of major contemporary playwrights from around the globe with emphasis on their innovative dramatic techniques and perspectives. Plays are analyzed to probe the literary, aesthetic, and performative issues raised on the contemporary stage.

RATIONALE: 
This course examines contemporary theater from a diverse range of national, regional, and ideological sites. Emphasis is given on the broad scope of contemporary dramatic techniques. The course examines the literary, social, and political contexts of contemporary theater to illustrate playwrights’ complex response to current cultural issues. Close literary analysis is combined with discussion of the works as stage performance.

LEARNING OUTCOMES: 
Upon successful completion of this course, the student should be able to:
1. Identify the broad range of techniques and thematic concerns in contemporary theater;
2. Discuss the relationship between written text and theatrical performance;
3. Identify the varying social, philosophical and political ideas and attitudes embodied in different manifestations of contemporary drama;
4. Analyze the ways in which theatrical and dramatic effectiveness is achieved through playwrights’ stylistic experimentation;
5. Demonstrate ability to select appropriate secondary material in support of textual analysis of representative works of contemporary theater.

METHOD OF TEACHING AND LEARNING:
In congruence with the teaching and learning strategy of the college, the following tools are used:
1. Lectures, class discussions, workshop-style pair work and group work during class meetings;
2. Formative exercises and online learning tasks through the Blackboard online tools designed to help students acquire confidence and benefit from independent study;
3. Additional print and audiovisual educational material posted on the Blackboard course template;
4. Timely instructor feedback on assignments;
5. Other relevant educational material placed on reserve in the library;
6. Individualized assistance during office hours for further discussion of lecture material, additional reading, assignments and examinations;
7. Close collaboration with the Library and SASS to encourage students’ effective use of academic support.