Introduction to Theatreical Contexts and Research (160-2-21)

Topic

The Chicago Black Renaissance

Instructors

Rachel Simone Russell

Meeting Info

Wirtz 235 Seminar Room 1: Tues, Thurs 9:30AM - 10:50AM

Overview of class

Langston Hughes, Gwendolyn Brooks, William Edouard Scott, Elizabeth Catlett, Louis Armstrong, Mahalia Jackson, Katherine Dunham, Hazel Thompson Davis, and Margaret Burroughs are but a few names spanning multiple artistic genres that were apart of the Chicago Black Renaissance (also known and the Black Chicago Renaissance). The Chicago Black Renaissance took place between the 1930's to the 1950's on the South Side of Chicago and left a lasting impact of the city of Chicago and the US as a whole. In this course we will engage with various artistic genres (play texts, dance, visual, literary, and music) to examine The Black Chicago Renaissance and its impact.

Like all 160-2 classes, this class equips students with critical modes of thinking about theatre as an academic discipline and practice. It features a range of analytical skills and critical approaches for play and performance analysis, incorporating aspects of theatre history, historiography, and performance theory. Through class discussions, readings, study of plays and performances, creative responses, and written assignments students will develop their analytical skills and learn to craft research papers in a guided process.

Class Materials (Suggested)

Required materials will be available on Canvas. No cost

Class Attributes

Attendance at 1st class mandatory

Enrollment Requirements

Enrollment Requirements: Registration is reserved for Theatre Majors only.