Time Schedule:
David Odai Johnson
DRAMA 494
Seattle Campus
Topics in drama, history, and criticism. See Time Schedule for specific topic. Prerequisite: DRAMA 302.
Class description
The class explores the history of the modern acting profession from the first biographies of English actors in the early 18th century (Thomas Betterton, Colley Cibber) through the end of the 19th century. It pays particular attention to the social promotion of the profession, from the status of rogues and vagabonds of Shakespeare's day, to the knighting of Sir Henry Irving and Dame Ellen Terry. Along the way it considers the accomplishments of individuals whose dedication to their craft elevated the profession as a whole.
Student learning goals
General method of instruction
Recommended preparation
Class assignments and grading
The class will be reading excerpts from the biographies of Thomas Betterton, Colley Cibber, Tate Wilkenson, Pierce Egan, Ellen Terry, Bram Stoker, Sarah Bernhardt, and others, as well as background material on the conventions and context of the business of theatre: finances, repertory, touring circuits, roles, the actor-manager, and the star system.
