THIS COURSE HAS CURRENTLY FILLED FOR FALL 2025.
What makes something visually stunning? Is it the thrill of chasing something bigger and better, or is it the experience of something small and relatable?
In this course, we’ll explore the evolving relationship between theatre and spectacle, tracing the ways in which visual storytelling has been shaped by cultural shifts over time. From the grandeur of Broadway musicals and immersive experiences to the high-tech wonders of modern film, this class will look at how we seek entertainment and the role that the visual world plays in drawing audiences in.
Throughout the semester, we’ll examine everything from the rise of visual effects, the influence of mass media, through how technology has expanded the boundaries of what we consider “theatrical.” Through studying a diverse mix of traditional performance, immersive theatre, performance art, themed entertainment, and cinematic influences, students will gain insight into the visual choices that make theatre a powerful, ever-evolving form of social expression.