COURSE DESCRIPTION

From Hamlet to Hamilton, THDA 435 Introduction to Theatre explores highlights from theatre history, theatre now, & the theatre of tomorrow. You will see live UNH Theatre & Dance productions and filmed theatre, take part in creative assignments, and find out the answer to: What is theatre?  Where did it come from? Who makes it and how? What makes theatre special? How do I get free and cheap tickets?  What will be the theatre of the future?  This course also introduces all aspects of theatrical production: playwriting, acting, directing, design, technical theatre, and theatre management.  The class format combines lectures with small group discussions, projects, and experiential learning. Selections from classic and contemporary plays are explored and discussed, and attendance at two theatrical productions is required.  Special fee covers the cost of tickets to UNH Theatre & Dance mainstage productions.  There are no prerequisites for this course.  THDA 435 fulfills the Discovery requirement in Fine and Performing Arts (FPA).

Course Description

This course examines the history of theatre through close study of the world's greatest plays from the 18th century to the present. Theatre has the potential to make visceral connections with the audience through universal themes. How were these modern and contemporary plays performed then, and how are they performed now?  What are their political, social, and cultural urgencies in each context? How were styles like realism, naturalism, absurdism, expressionism, and postmodernism performed, and why? We will closely read the play texts as well as watch filmed theatre productions.

Putting our study of history into practical application, students will investigate the role dramaturgy plays in preparing an audience to see a classic or contemporary play. We will discuss how these plays appealed to their original audiences, and how they appeal to audiences now. We will discuss the historical, social and cultural circumstances surrounding their initial productions.  What makes a play a “classic”? What makes a play contemporary? What makes a play worthy of a production? What is relevant to consider about the context in which each play was written? What research is relevant and reliable? How can a production of a play benefit from dramaturgical analysis and contextualization? What research aids theatre makers and audience members alike?

This course fulfills the Discovery requirement in the category of Fine and Performing Arts. It also fulfills Writing Intensive requirements. There are no prerequisites and students do not need to have any prior theatre experience.