ACTivism: Theatre As Social Change

ACTivism: Theatre As Social Change is an Interdisciplinary Arts course taught by Natalie Sowell.

This course satisfies Division I requirements.

Course Description
How has art provoked social change? Can theatre be an instrument of social action? How do the principles of organizing intersect with the art form of theatre? In this class we will explore innovative and non-traditional strategies and tactics for mobilizing for social change. Throughout the semester, we will acquaint ourselves with the history, theory and practice of applied theatre forms such as guerilla theatre, living newspaper theatre, theatre of the oppressed, sociodrama, theatre for development, and community-based theatre. In order to comprehend the practical participatory nature of applied theatre for social change, we will work as artist activists creating, practicing and implementing some of these different modes of theatre. This class centers on Paolo Freire?s principle of praxis?the inseparability of reflection and action, theory and practice?in pursuit of social change. Lab time will be used periodically.

Learning Goals

 * Expressive
 * Multi-Cultural
 * Project-based
 * Presenting
 * Reading