LTHR2114

This Civic Liberal Arts (CLA) directing course explores the devising processes. Devised theatre is, essentially, collaborative theater. A contemporary practice wherein a team of theater-makers collaborate in the creation of an original performance without following a pre-existing script. Students will learn the building blocks of devising through a conceptual approach to research and development of collected material, both found and created—visual and textual media, world history, personal memoir, science, current politics, and culture among others. Students will meet with ELEVATOR REPAIR SERVICE (ERS), who have a prominent place in the history of Devised Theater. The company’s web page reads “Founded in 1991 by Artistic Director John Collins, [ERS] creates original works with an ongoing ensemble.” Devising and collaboration form the foundation of Elevator Repair Service’s work. Their creative team has worked together for the last 32 years to create a number of original performances through the Devise Theater method. Besides meeting with the company, the class will be visited by other devising guest artists. This course is designed to encourage students’ playfulness, risk taking and a willingness to freely approach new forms. No prerequisite. This course fulfills an elective requirement for Theater majors and minors.