760-209 Avant-Garde Theatre

Usually 25 points of first-year theatre studies.

This subject introduces and examines theories of the avant-garde and notions of avant-garde theatre culture. Students will review the history of the avant-garde in the 20th century with specific attention to early formative experiments, the contribution of Antonin Artaud and the explosion of avant-garde theatre in the 1960s and beyond. Consideration will also be given to the possible crisis in avant-garde theatre in the light of contemporary culture. The avant-gardes' need to be politically and culturally transgressive will be explored through early experiments in unmediated artistic expression and in the contemporary theorisation of cultural experiences as performance.

• Manage time effectively in the completion of a self-directed research project;

• Demonstrate the ability and self-confidence to comprehend complex concepts;

• Demonstrate the written skills to present essay work on an approved topic to an advanced level.

Written work totaling 4000 words comprising participation in the seminar program, logbook and oral seminar paper of 1500 words 30% (due one week after the class presentation), a research essay of 2500 words 40% (due at the end of semester), and a performance presentation/practical project that identifies and applies theoretical concerns 30% (due at the end of semester).