Studies in Theatre

ABOUT THE COURSE: I have been a theatre enthusiast and researcher teaching in the Department of English, AMU for over two decades. I aim to present you with a holistic exposure "Studies in Theatre". Welcome to an engaging and enlightening exploration of the fascinating world of drama and performance. This course invites you to embark on a journey through the rich tapestry of theatrical history, theory, and practice, offering a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted nature of the stage.We will delve into the diverse aspects of theatre, from its ancient origins to its contemporary manifestations. You will gain insights into the dramatic genius of playwrights, the artistry of actors, the visionary direction of productions, and the creative ingenuity of designers. We will also examine the intricate relationship between theatre and society, exploring how this art form reflects and influences the world around us especially in the present digital age.Our journey will take us from classical Greek tragedies to avant-garde experimental performances, from Shakespearean masterpieces to groundbreaking contemporary works. Along the way, we will take up know-how of writing scripts, dissect performances, and explore the broader cultural, social, and practical contexts that shape the theatrical landscape.Whether you are a theatre enthusiast or a researcher in the world of drama, this course promises to ignite your passion for the stage, expand your critical thinking skills, and foster a deeper appreciation for the transformative power of theatre. This course is also useful for all literature students who wish to understand deeper this area of study because generally literature departments are not equipped to teach theatre and drama as field-oriented disciplines.INTENDED AUDIENCE: UG, PG and PhD students across the country pursuing arts and literature programmes of studies. Students from Mass Communication are also intended audience. Freelancers in media can also take up.INDUSTRY SUPPORT: Theatre, Music, Film, TV, OTT companies along with Newspapers, Magazines and Online portals.

Week 1: Introduction to Theatre History:
-Overview of the evolution of theatre from ancient civilizations to contemporary times.Week 2:Theatrical Genres:
-Exploration of different theatrical genres, such as tragedy, comedy, mime, and experimental theatre.Week 3:Acting and Performance:
-Fundamentals of acting, character development, and techniques for stage presence and expression.Week 4:Directing and Production:
-The role of the director in shaping a production, including script analysis, blocking, and working with actors and designersWeek 5:Theatre Design and Technology:
-Study of set design, costume design, lighting design, and sound design, as well as the use of technology in contemporary theatre.Week 6:Performance Movements and Styles:
-Exploration of influential movements and styles, such as realism, surrealism, and postmodernism.Week 7:Writing in Theatre:
-Plays, Skits, Screenplay, Reviews, Monologues, Sketches, Comedy ActsWeek 8: Theatre Criticism and Analysis:
-Techniques for critiquing and evaluating theatrical performances, as well as the history of theatre criticism.Week 9:Contemporary Issues in Theatre:
-Discussion of current trends, challenges, and innovations in the world of theatre, site-specific performances, and emerging forms of storytelling.Week 10:Theatre and AI:
-An Introduction to Digital Intervention in TheatreWeek 11:Theatre and Employability:
-How to prepare for future avenues in theatre and performanceWeek 12:Theatre Research:
-Thesis, paper-writing, article writing and conducting field research in theatre studies