This seminar explores how iconic pieces of theatre can be re-explored for modern audiences. The course will examine various aspects of how an artist can think out-of-the-box and the mechanisms the artist can use to do so. There will be discussions, theatre visits, possible access to theatre practitioners and assignments which will encourage the participant to explore their own imaginative approach to storytelling. The course is designed for performers, directors, designers but would also be of interest to dancers, writers and those interested in how theatre can be challenging and relevant.
Sample reading list:
Peter Brook, The Shifting Point
Bertolt Brecht, The Rise and Fall of the City of Mahagony
Stephen Sondheim, Sweeny Todd, The Demon Barber of Fleet Street
Reading/Writing assignments:
Weekly readings of plays and critical material. 2-4 oral presentations on production ideas for the plays being studied. A final paper (10-15pp) and presentation on a project in consultation with the instructor.
Other information:
John Doyle received a Tony Award in 2006 for his innovative direction of Sweeney Todd and continues to reinvent musicals, plays and operas around the world. His most recent project is the Lincoln Center revival of Sondheim’s Passion.
