THEA 390 The Living Theatre: Tradition, Innovation, and Change
This course examines the ideas, individuals, institutions, and innovations that have contributed to the development of theater, from its precursors in the ancient world to the present day. Through the reading and viewing of seminal works, the essential elements of live theater - acting, directing, dramatic texts, design elements, performance space, and the audience - are explored with a focus on staging practices, aesthetics, and theatrical convention.
4 Undergraduate credits
Effective August 18, 2025 to present
Meets graduation requirements for
Learning outcomes
General
- Identify the major artistic movements and trends associated with the development of theater;
- Analyze the changing views of the theater¿s aesthetic and social functions.
- Apply aspects of traditional performance and production processes to contemporary theater practice.
- Identify major theater artists, designers, and technicians and their contribution to the development of theater; and
- Articulate perceptions of race, ethnicity, class, and sexuality through analysis of various theatrical works and dramatic forms.
Minnesota Transfer Curriculum
Goal 6: The Humanities and Fine Arts
- Demonstrate awareness of the scope and variety of works in the arts and humanities.
- Understand those works as expressions of individual and human values within a historical and social context.
- Respond critically to works in the arts and humanities.
- Engage in the creative process or interpretive performance.
- Articulate an informed personal reaction to works in the arts and humanities.
Spring 2026
| Section | Title | Instructor | books | eservices |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 50 | The Living Theatre: Tradition, Innovation, and Change | Beller, Jonathan Steven | Books for THEA-390-50 Spring 2026 | Course details for THEA-390-50 Spring 2026 |