This course uses and teaches artistic practice as a practical example of resilience in action. It utilizes readings, discussion, theatre exercises, small group discussions, quizzes and assignments (both in and outside class) all aimed at fortifying a student’s skill at Resilience.

Psychologists have identified some of the factors that make a person resilient, such as a positive attitude, optimism, the ability to regulate emotions, the ability to improvise, and the ability to see failure as a form of helpful feedback. Ironically, these are factors also at play in theatre practice.

There's growing evidence that the elements of resilience can be cultivated. Research shows that optimism gives people access to their own cognitive resources, enabling cool-headed analysis of what might have gone wrong and consideration of behavioral paths that might be more productive. 

The goal is to encourage students to become their fullest, most human, most creative, most productive, most successful selves. 

REQUIRED TEXTS:

• Daring Greatly by Brené Brown
• The Science of Mastering Life’s Greatest Challenges by Steven Southwick, Dennis Charney, & Jonathan DePierro
• Fierce Conversations by Susan Scott
• GRIT by Angela Duckworth