THEAT 431/ENG 430 – Italian Theater: History, Theory, and Practice
Description
The aim of the course is to introduce students to Italian theater through a theoretical and practical approach. Students will be guided on a journey through the history of Italian theater from the Renaissance to the present. As for the practical part of the course, we will focus on Italian contemporary dramaturgy, selecting plays written by internationally renowned playwright dealing with strong ethical issues that will offer students the opportunity to think about the role of theater in contemporary society. At the end of the course, students will stage a play under the instructors’ supervision.
The course is enriched by meetings with Italian and international actors, so as to further stimulate students to explore contemporary theater. Such meetings will also provide them with precious insights into acting techniques, introduce them to this profession, and inform them of related job opportunities.
Objectives
1. To give students an overview of Italian theater from the Renaissance to the present.
2. To help students develop their analytical skills, understand a text, and put it on stage.
3. To introduce students to the most common and basic performing techniques.
4. To have students enhance their imagination, discipline, concentration ability, sense of responsibility, and teamwork skills.
Textbooks
During orientation at the Institute, students will receive a list of textbooks and/or course readers they are required to purchase. Students should not purchase any texts before orientation.
Course descriptions may be subject to occasional minor modifications at the discretion of the instructor.