Just an update about how much fun we are having in this class. From comedy in Ancient Greece to the Passion plays of Medieval Theater, the seventh graders in the class are screaming with laughter, dying torturous deaths by dramatic devils, jumping around with mistaken identities, impersonating slaves and misers, and delving into philosophical discussions ranging in topic from violent entertainment to man’s search for meaning and his struggle with salvation. Phew. We fill up our 40 minutes quickly. On to Kabuki, Noh, and Sanskrit!!!!!!

Welcome to the 2010-2011 school year! I will be teaching two Arts Block classes this fall and winter. “What is Theater?” is an exploration of the relevance of theater from its origins to contemporary society. Students will be on their feet working with text from Greek tragedy to 21st century. They will emerge with their own ideas about the importance of the art form.
The Actor’s Instrument will focus more on the craft of acting. The class will discover many different approaches to performance through games, ensemble building exercises, movement, and vocal work.
It is my hope to post material for easy reference and additional research for students who are excited about a particular class or time period in theater history.
They’ve initiated a lot of deep conversation to date and exhibited mucho talent! I am pleased to be learning with them.