History of Directing: Traditions and Experiments

Course Description

Summary

We will work semi-chronologically from the late 19th to the early 21st century, examining how the “director” emerged as a seminal force in the experimental theater. Parallel movements in film will be considered, but our focus remains on live performance. We will read historic manifestos, critical responses, and examine videos and visual research. We may read contemporary case studies to explore how current directors work collaboratively to subvert theatrical conventions. We will consider the relationship of the director to the “text,” (written, physical, visual, aural), to actor training, to the ensemble and collaboration, and to design and technology. We will look at practitioners at the core of the western tradition, as well as global directors who are expanding the field. Students will deliver oral presentations and lead discussions examining a theater/performance artist’s theory and practice. In addition, we will conduct in-class experiential exercises invoked in various directorial approaches. Each student will make a final short (3 minute) original video (low tech iPhone video is fine) inspired by the work of one or more of the artists we will study.