Contemporary Plays

Course Description

Summary

Our digital world is increasingly overrun with slop. But live performance is stronger than ever, as talented writers create thrilling plays that push the form—and the culture—forward.

In this class, we will read and discuss contemporary plays, with a particular focus on formally inventive plays produced in New York and London over the past few years. Plays may include Nazareth Hassan’s Practice and Bowl EP, Eliya Smith’s Dad Don’t Read This, Jasmine Lee-Jones’ Seven Methods of Killing Kylie Jenner, Kallan Dana’s Lobster, Hansol Jung’s Wolf Play, Malaprop Theatre’s Hothouse, and Else Went’s Degenerates. We will also read a few (just slightly) older plays that have informed the contemporary landscape, which may include Young Jean Lee’s Lear, Sarah DeLappe’s The Wolves, and others.

Each class will include a discussion of the assigned play, as well as an in-class creative writing prompt exploring related theatrical techniques. Occasional critical responses will also be assigned. Students will finish the class with a greater understanding of the current theatrical landscape, an overview of some of the most vital new work being made right now, and a portfolio of written experiments. No theatrical experience necessary; this is a class for anyone interested in dialogue, story, attention, and surprise.