Theory and Practice of Latinx American Theatre

The objective of this course is to introduce students to the complexities of Latin American theatre of the 20th and 21st centuries with an emphasis on both dramatic and scenic components. Issues such as gender, nationality, history, violence, immigration, identity and memory will be part of our ongoing discussion of the plays as we simultaneously distinguish aspects related to the theatrical stage and performance. The organization of the course is divided into two parts. First, students will read a variety of Latin American plays while becoming familiar with some of the most pertinent thinkers such as Artaud, Brecht, Barba, Boal, Stanislavsky, Grotowski who have heavily influenced playwrights in Latin America. During the second part of this course, we move to the Play Circle (Memorial Union), where students will learn how to stage a full-length play that they will have read. Set, lights, costume designs, production and direction will be part of this collective endeavor, and each student will assume an active role in the performance (acting is not necessary). Students with interests in music, crafts, design can help explore theatre through the live performance. The end project is to perform in front of a live audience. Class and performance are in Spanish. One weekly response paper, two short analytical papers (6-8 pages), and one live performance are required.

ITS students can take this class as 4-credit production course. Once the class moves to the Play Circle (in mid-March), ITS students will begin coming to class and will be able to work with any level of stage production that they desire (lighting, design, stage management). Spanish is not necessary unless acting is desired.