THPERF 271Performance History

This course offers a broad exploration of theatre and performance practices across time and cultures, examining the evolution of major genres, styles, and traditions with contextual emphasis on Western theatrical developments. From ancient rituals to contemporary expressions, students will investigate how diverse performance forms emerge from and respond to their historical, social, and cultural environments. The course balances the study of significant theatrical movements, texts, and artists with critical approaches to historical research and interpretation. By engaging with influential works and scholarly perspectives, students will develop a nuanced understanding of how performance has been created, documented, and reimagined throughout history, while considering the complex relationship between theatrical traditions and the societies that produce them.