THEA 322(F) Performance Criticism (Same as Comparative Literature 322) (W)
There are two goals for this course: to have students see performance and write
critically about it. Throughout the course we will always be concerned with (1)
the definition and practices of performance, (2) the ways of writing critically
about those practices, and (3) the conflicts between criticism and performance.
The "definitions and practices" of performance vary as widely as the "ways of
writing critically," and we will be exposed to numerous critical approaches to
writing about performance. Live (CenterSeries, Williamstheatre productions,
Dance Program offerings) and recorded (film) performance will be considered
the objects of study.
Format: seminar. Evaluation based on five pieces of critical writing on
performance, oral analyses of colleagues' work, class participation and class
attendance.
Prerequisites: one 200-level course in a course that emphasizes the study of live
or recorded performances (please check with instructor for clarification); or,
permission of instructor. Enrollment limit: 19 (expected 15). Preference given to
upper-class students.