Performing Stories: East Meets West

Semester and Year	SP 2010
Course Number	ARTS-UG1050
Section	001
Instructor	Lanny Harrison
Days	Wed
Time	2:00 PM - 4:45 PM
Units	4.0
Level	U
Foundation Requirement

Description

In this course we will create characters inspired by history, memory, dreams and world lore through challenging exercises that fuse Eastern contemplative traditions and Western theatrical improvisation. Students will learn how to access different aspects of themselves to enhance their own creative process and create a uniquely authentic theatre. Each session will begin with vocal exercises and physical warm ups, based on Taoist exercises and Western dance techniques. Our character work starts with meditations and visualizations employing the Buddhist tradition of "mindfulness/awareness" practice, in which we place ourselves totally in the present moment. We will work in solos, duos and groups, gradually adding costumes, props and music. Open to theater students, dancers, musicians, visual artists, writers—all those interested in discovering their own source of deep invention. Readings will include Chögyam Trungpa's Shambhala: The Sacred Path of the Warrior and Dharma Art , Louise Steinman's The Knowing Body , Ethan Nichtern's One City and John Welwood's Ordinary Magic .

Course Type

Arts Workshops (ARTS-UG)