THTR 345 Introduction to Dramaturgy
Dramaturgs are collaborative artists and critical advisors who contextualize the world of a play both for those involved in its planning and production, and for those in the audience. In this course students will study the dramaturg’s various responsibilities through research and practice. Assignments might include: serving as the dramaturg on a hypothetical production; designing and proposing a theoretical season for a theatre; or shadowing a professional dramaturg. The course requires students to engage both local and international sources as they undertake intensive historical research in New York museums, libraries and archives. In addition students must take advantage of the city’s many theatrical resources actively and independently. Because dramaturgs must learn to communicate clearly with many individuals, students will practice different methodologies of description, communication, and analysis throughout the semester.