The 1960’s represents a watershed moment in America history, no less for the theatre than for the world of politics and culture at large.  This course will investigate a wide range of new works created during this tumultuous decade.  We will examine the radical work and ensemble process of experimental theatre companies such as The Open Theatre, The Living Theatre, and the Performance Group.  We will read and discuss early plays by soon-to-be renowned playwrights such as Edward Albee, Sam Shepard, and John Guare.  We will examine the rise of new Off-Broadway theatre companies such as Circle Rep and the American Place Theatre devoted to new American playwrights, as well as Joseph Papp’s Public Theatre.  Finally, we will chart the development of the regional theatre movement in cities across the country. Students will do research and make presentations on work of individual playwrights, directors, actors, and theatre companies.