Michole Biancosino

Acting I: Beginning Acting
Rigorous physical and psychophysical exercises attempt to break through the cultural and psychological barriers that inhibit an open responsiveness to impulses, to the environment, and to others. Attempt is made to free personal response within improvised scenes and, eventually, within the narrative structure of a naturalistic scene. Attention is given to various theories of acting technique. Students are expected to audition for departmental shows. (First- and second-year students only) 3 hrs. lect./individual labs

Contemporary Women+ Playwrights
In this course we will read and discuss the work of influential contemporary American playwrights from the late twentieth century to the present. Authors will include Maria Irene Fomes, Ntozake Shange, Lynn Nottage, Larissa Fasthorse, Martyna Majok, and others. Issues of race, class, and gender will be closely examined. Readings will include selections from performance and feminist theory. 3 hrs. lect. (Dramatic Literature)

Theatre History
Using the dramatic text as the primary focus, this course will chart the progression of theatre from its ritualistic origins to the advent of modern drama. This survey will include an overview of theatrical architecture, the evolution of design and acting styles, and the introduction of the director. Since theatre does not exist in a void, a consideration of the social, cultural, political, and scientific milieu of each era studied will be included in the course. 2 1/2 hrs. lect./discussion & 1 screening per week

Devising, Directing and the Actor-Creator
Devised theatre is the practice of creating original theatrical works without reliance on a formal script. It draws from ensemble theater techniques, physical theater, and improvisation. In this course, students will create increasingly complex performances from a variety of sources including movement, text, and the visual arts. Techniques from the physical theater, including Viewpoints and LeCoq training, will serve as the foundation for the course. Students will explore multiple roles in the devising theater process, including directing and performing, while developing skills as multi-hyphenate theatrical artists. Coursework will include readings and research on contemporary devising and experimental theatre companies. (ARDV0116 or THEA0102 or THEA0101 or DANC 0160 or FMMC 0105 or MUSC 1013) 3 hrs. lect.