DRAMA 494 A: Special Studies In Theatre And Drama

This seminar will explore the creative process in theory, practice, and through artists’ own accounts of their lives and work.  Some of the questions we’ll address: Is creativity a solitary act? How do collaboration and competition function in artistic duos or team? In creative circles? In historical moments or scenes of artistic breakthrough? Class sessions will combine analysis and discussion of readings with exercises in creative practice.  Students will be expected to develop their own theories of creativity and their own exercises, as well as to embark on creative projects of their own.  Readings from Twyla Tharp, Patti Smith, Elaine Scarry, Ta Nehisi Coates, Anton Chekhov, Stephen Sondheim, Harold Clurman, Eudora Welty, Lewis Hyde, Anna Deavere Smith, and others—a pretty heavy weekly reading load.