THEA 211Dramaturgy

3 credits · Theatre · Penn State

THEA 211 is an introduction to the history, theory, and practice of production dramaturgy. Students will learn to: practice theory-driven and production-oriented play analysis; to write thoughtful dramatic criticism, informed by theatre theory and critical thinking; and to practice a range of scholarly, artistic and interpersonal skills; in order to advocate for the emergent production at hand. To do this, students will study historical and contemporary dramaturgical theory, a transhistorical set of essays that argue for a certain form, content, or purpose of theatre and performance. Students will learn the historical and contemporary role of the dramaturg in production, and will practice the skills associated with the contemporary dramaturg. These include providing research support for theatre production, designing audience events such as talkbacks and receptions, and writing program pieces such as playwright bios and production histories. The cumulative dossier students create can serve as a dramaturgy portfolio for those who wish to pursue dramaturgy through graduate study or through taking the role in productions going forward. For all students, the portfolio develops an understanding of the dual role of dramaturg as scholar and artist.