PERF12015 Staging Contemporary Issues

This course is based on the belief expressed by Brecht and Boal that theatre is a powerful medium for examining contemporary issues and problematising social and interpersonal power structures. Theatre and the processes of making theatre are seen as agencies of change. A study is made of theories and practices of Theatre of Change in diverse historical and cultural contexts. Issues are examined relating to the purposes of theatre in terms of education, propaganda, and political and social empowerment. These studies inform the production of a play which addresses issues relevant to particular audiences. Through their involvement in the decision-making and reflective processes of production, students are assisted to form a grounded theory of Theatre for Change as socially critical arts practice. The course culminates in the public performance of the play as part of the CQU Theatre-in-Education Company.