This course explores the theories and current practices of Latin American theatre and performance as it has developed within and against contexts of dictatorships and neocolonialism. We will analyze how Latino/a American theorists and practitioners use the scripted and the performative to intervene in social spaces as they construct counter-public spheres, and how these performances create aesthetics of resistance. The first part of the course concentrates on Latin America; the second half introduces how Latin America extends through and beyond the US/Mexican border. At the beginning of each class the instructor will offer a brief discussion/response to relevant aspects of the texts. Brief student presentations will follow. The second half of the class will be devoted to open discussion of the text, presentation and/or screening. Students are expected to visit the Hemispheric Institute of Performance and Politics website (http//hemi.ps.tsoa.nyu.edu). Format: seminar. Requirements: one class presentation about one of the readings and film/videos discussion in class (or about the Hemispheric site), a midterm and final take home exam. Prerequisites: THEA 331F or 200 level course in areas relating to Latino cultural or political studies and permission of instructor. Enrollment limit: 12 (expected: 12). Preference given to students with demonstrated interest/experience in subject matter.

Hour: JOTTUR