This course is an introduction to theatre as a unique art form, in which we will pursue the following questions. What is theatre? For whom—and by whom—is it created and performed? What does it take to “make theatre?” What is the role of theatre in society and in our culture(s)? We will learn to read plays as scripts designed for performance, and one of our key goals will be to discover how to interpret and assess the experience of live performance itself. Among the things we will consider are the distinct roles of actors, directors, designers, playwrights, producers, spectators, and critics; we will also visit a variety of performance spaces in Philadelphia, where we will view live theatre together. The class will feature visits from professional artists, and may present opportunities for creative as well as analytical work.

For Spring 2023: Cat Johnson, MFA, will teach the course as a small seminar with an active-learning approach to class sessions. Students will be practicing the aspects of theatre they are studying: acting, directing, designing, producing, critiquing. By the end of the semester students will create their own works of theatre while also analyzing the work of professionals. Students will attend live performances both in Center City Philadelphia and on-campus.