Introduction: This course requires students to experiment with forms and conventions in dramatic literature, and to create/adapt and present dramatic works. Students will do research on dramatic forms, conventions, themes and theories of acting and directing from different historical periods, and apply their knowledge of these in analyzing and interpreting dramatic literature, including Canadian works and works from various cultures in the late twentieth century. Students will also examine the significance of dramatic arts in various cultures. The course also engages students in active learning. They apply their theory and knowledge in genuine theatrical contexts by working as actors, playwrights, and discerning audience members. The intent of the course is to make learning experiential to the greatest extent possible, while meeting the academic demands presented by the expectations and suitable for the university/college destinations of students taking the course.
Units of Study: Acting Methodology Using Canadian Text, Beyond Realism; Theatre of the Absurd, Epic Theatre and Commedia Dell Arte, Shaping a Theme into a Theatrical Style: Comedy, Characters in New Settings: Production and Careers in Theatre.
The following photos are of the ADA 4M1 class, working on their Epic Theatre scenes from the plays, "The Caucasian Chalk Circle" and "The Good Woman of Setzuan".