INTRODUCTION TO AFRICAN-AMERICAN PERFORMANCE

AFRICAN/AFROAMER 813

Historical and critical study of the classics of contemporary African and Caribbean literary drama written in English. Thematic issues include the African encounter with Europe, postcolonial disillusionment and the betrayal of ideals, and also stylistic matters as the relationship(s) between traditional drama and other performance forms, and modern drama written in European languages. Considers theories and critical approaches to understanding the cross-continental drama traditions and their contexts. Examines the long histories of cultural, performance, and theatrical relationships between Africa and the Caribbean and how the relationships have been shaped by race and economics, past and present. Considers and questions conventional claims made by others and your own assumptions; stimulates analytical thinking about identity.

AFROAMER 225

Introduction to the history of African American theater and major African American playwrights and actors.

DANCE/THEATRE 218

Technique, practice and performance of complex African and African-based dances in relation to polyrhythmic musical and percussive accompaniment. Study of historical and cultural contexts of these forms. Development of improvisational skills in dialogue with musicians.

AFROAMER 303

Study of the interpretations of the African American past conveyed via theatrical films and television; relationship to other images of blacks found throughout the popular culture; relationship to societal trends.

AFRICAN/AFROAMER 413

A critical study of the major works.