Time Schedule:
Andrew H Tsao
DRAMA 454
Seattle Campus
Rehearsal and classroom performance of dramatic literature of various periods and styles.
Class description
Creating Drama -
By applying principles of dramatic construction to a variety of existing materials, this class provides students with tools and techniques for creating dramatic narrative out of such sources as personal history, non-fiction, biography, fable, myth and current events.
This class also examines the role of the artist in the act of creativity. By considering the nature of one’s creative process, we will develop critical skills that are important in the development of methods and approaches in creating effective dramatic work.
Student learning goals
Discover the core elements of what constitutes a theatrical narrative
Apply dramatic construction principles to a variety of material, from biographic, non-fiction, myths, fables or news items in order to create effective theatrical pieces.
Work in an ensemble situation with other creative artists.
Understand the nature of creative work: idea, process, result.
General method of instruction
The class will be a working lab. Students will work together in small groups to create theatrical pieces based on source materials.
Class Texts:
May, Rollo:
The Courage to Create New York, W.W. Norton & Company 1975
Csikszentmihalyi, Mihaly: Flow: The psychology of optimal experience. New York, Harper & Row 1990
Aristotle: Poetics London, Penguin Group 1996
Sophocles OEDIPUS THE KING
Recommended preparation
This class is open to students who have completed the 251, 252 and 253 series in Drama.
Class assignments and grading
Students will be expected to participate in group project development. Also, three short quizzes and two 500 word papers are required.
Grades are assigned on a points=decimal ratio. Project work, papers, quizzes and attendance will constitute a given point total, i.e. 300. Decimal ratios will be assigned to point totals, i.e. 295-300=4.0
