M.F.A. Graduate Seminars
First Year
Vibrant Traditions in American Theater
Vibrant Traditions in American Theater examines American theatrical heritage and tradition, and its relevance to current work in the field. Through readings, discussion, archival viewing, and guest speakers from the profession, students will explore a significant artist/era of work, and trace its influence.
Current Events and the Judicious Mind
In order to create and have a voice, an artist must be aware and have an understanding of the world around him/her. Current Events and the Judicious Mind provides a platform for M.F.A. students to explore the world around them through the lens of current events, news, media, and technology. Students will look at the impact that these events have on the development of an artist's perspective.
After a series of preparatory sessions, students will examine news stories of interest, from disparate/contradictory news sources. The stories will be parsed for content, accuracy, and language. The goal is to create a judicious mind.
Second Year
Playwriting Techniques and Practices
Course will focus on basic understanding of Aristotelian dramatic structure. Students will also be exposed to alternative story-telling techniques and formal experimentation. Students will read a variety of plays and complete weekly playwriting assignments. Class time will be devoted to reading students' work aloud, in-class writing exercises, lecture, and discussion. The course will culminate in a first draft of a full-length play.
Methodologies of Directing
During the second semester, students will explore the fundamentals of directing for the stage in order to gain insight into the role of the director and look at the processes directors go through in order to create a piece of theater from conception through rehearsal. Students will apply their skills in script analysis, establishing given circumstances, objectives and actions as a director by developing short theater works.
Third Year
Elements of Production and Design
Students focus on the design and technical production aspects of theater. Students will examine elements of design and collaborative work that happens between directors and design team in the pre-production phase, throughout the rehearsal process, technical rehearsal, and during the run of the show. Whenever possible, throughout the semester directors, designers, and other members of the production team will be brought in to talk about their process.
Pedagogy of Drama
Students will explore the techniques and theory of drama pedagogy today, providing insight into the teaching of theater as well as the use of drama work in education and outreach settings.
Fourth Year
American Theater Landscape
Students explore the history and current offerings of New York, and regional theaters. Students examine plays (from a dramaturgical viewpoint), meet guest speakers, and see productions, thereby gaining wide exposure to New York City theater, as well as a solid understanding of the regional theater network.
Each week students will study the regional theater movement during a select time period, focusing on the history and contributions of one or two influential theaters of that time. Small groups of students will be assigned to research one theater, play, or playwright connected with each time period and present materials to the class. When applicable, students will also examine a current play being produced at that theater from a dramaturgical viewpoint, exploring its historical context as well as its relevance today.
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