20074. Drama: Page and Stage
This two-course connection is informed by course content as well as theatre history and a cultural connection between Russian and American drama. The history of American acting technique owes a specific debt to a Russian actor/director, Konstantin Stanislavsky. Stanislavsky's professional life developed first in Russia, where he collaborated closely with playwright Anton Chekhov. He then emigrated to America and continued his life in theatre in the U.S. by evolving and teaching the "Stanislavsky system" of performance training. Russian playwright Anton Chekhov, his plays and his work with Stanislavsky form key components of both courses.
In Thea 211, Intermediate Acting, students further refine their own stage techniques and a significant portion of their work centers around a Chekhov project. In Russ 203, Russian Drama, students explore in context the pivotal role Chekhov played for Russian drama and for Russian stage technique.
Scheduling note:
Students interested in this connection should note that Russ 203 is taught approximately once every three years--although adjustments may be possible. If you are interested and concerned about this rotation, please contact the Russian and Russian Studies department.
Connections:
Russ 203 Russian Drama
and Thea 211 Intermediate Acting