DRAMA SAMPLE COURSE DESCRIPTION

GS- East

The Drama program at Governor’s School East is built upon two principles: an introduction to 20th/21st century innovation in theatrical forms, and the making of a student created work, or works. Focus is given to the creative process so that students move away from the traditional, script-based works and the concerns of “casting.” Instead, great effort is made to create an environment where students are encouraged to become more than “interpretive” artists, and to view themselves as intrinsic to the creative process: writing, designing, directing and producing a body of new work that stretches their ideas of what theater can be.

This curriculum involves a high level of group thought and collaboration. It demands tremendous physical and mental concentration. The class time is spent not only introducing the ideas of theater but also on the techniques needed to build the ensemble. The classes themselves revolve around physical training (yoga and games to build concentration and ensemble) and introduction to view points work, as developed by Wendell Beavers, Mary Overlie, and Anne Bogart.

GS- West

The focus of the Drama program at Governor's School West is the practice and performance of contemporary theater, and the exploration of current voice, movement, and acting techniques. Morning classes concentrate on warm-up and technique. Afternoon rehearsals are devoted not only to preparing for performance, but also to understanding the philosophy and history behind the plays. Drama students work in collaboration with the instructors to produce truthful and challenging theater. The actors are encouraged to question their preconceptions about the nature of theater, performance, and acting.

Week 1

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Week 3

Week 4

Week 5

Week 6