Theatre and Globalization

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/global-theatre

Introduction

**Course Review: Theatre and Globalization on Coursera** In our increasingly interconnected world, understanding the cultural exchanges that shape our societies has never been more essential. The Coursera course "Theatre and Globalization" offers a fascinating exploration of how theatre and globalization have influenced one another throughout the past century. This course is designed for anyone interested in the performing arts, cultural studies, or global history. **Course Overview:** The course aims to equip participants with the tools needed to examine global theatre histories and appreciate the interplay between theatrical practices and global movements. The curriculum is comprehensive, taking learners through a well-structured syllabus that covers a range of themes relevant to both historical and contemporary contexts. **Syllabus Highlights:** 1. **Definitions, Methods, and Resources for Writing Global Theatre Histories:** The course kicks off with fundamental concepts that set the stage for deeper analysis. Here, learners will explore the definitions of "theatre" and "globalization," alongside an overview of online resources that can enhance research on theatre history, particularly during the late 19th and 20th centuries. 2. **Theatre on the Move: Migration, Mobility, and Modernization:** In this module, students delve into how migration and mobility have shaped theatrical traditions and practices globally. The discussions help illuminate the critical link between theatre and the movement of people and ideas across borders. 3. **Global Players: Actors, Managers, and Agents:** This section focuses on the individuals who have played pivotal roles in the global migration of theatre. By studying the experiences of actors, managers, and agents, learners gain insight into the dynamics that have influenced the theatrical landscape. 4. **Global Hubs and Local Theatres:** Here, the concept of theatre buildings as 'Cultural Hubs' and 'Contact Zones' is explored. This module encourages students to consider theatres as spaces of cultural interaction, where diverse backgrounds converge and influence one another. 5. **East versus West: Cold War Rivalries:** Theatre served as both a reflection and a battleground during the Cold War era. This module examines how theatrical practices were involved in the ideologies and conflicts between the East and West, highlighting the critical role of performance art during this pivotal time. 6. **Festivalization, Megamusical, and Theatrical Global Media:** The course concludes with an examination of contemporary theatrical forms, including mega-musicals and online livestreaming. This section addresses how technology and globalization are reshaping theatre and opening up new avenues for audience engagement. **Recommendation:** I highly recommend the "Theatre and Globalization" course for anyone interested in the complexities of cultural exchange and the evolution of theatre in a global context. The course not only provides historical and contextual knowledge but also encourages critical thinking and research skills that are applicable beyond the classroom. Whether you are a student of theatre, a cultural enthusiast, or simply curious about globalization, this course will significantly enrich your understanding of the featured topics. Moreover, the learning format is accessible, with thoughtful materials that cater to diverse learning preferences. The discussions and insights provided throughout will engage you intellectually and inspire a more profound appreciation for the art of theatre in our globalized world. **Conclusion:** In a world where the arts continue to adapt and evolve amid globalization, "Theatre and Globalization" offers a timely exploration of the interactions between these two dynamic forces. Enroll to embrace the fascinating journey of theatre history that transcends borders and defies cultural barriers.

Syllabus

Definitions, Methods, and Resources for Writing Global Theatre Histories

Introductions with definitions of "theatre" and "globalization"; conceptualizing 'global theatre histories'; overview of online resources for researching the history of theatre during the late 19th and 20th centuries.

How we can relate migration and mobility to the dissemination of theatre.

Actors, Managers, and Theatrical Agents; with a focus on the people who organized the global migration of theatre.

Theatre Buildings as 'Cultural Hubs' and 'Contact Zones'; methodologies and concepts for approaching theatres as places where different people, languages, and cultures met and interacted.

Theatre and the Cold War; theatre as a site of the rivalry between East and West.

Festivals, Megamusicals, and Livestreaming; how contemporary types of theatre reflect globalization and new technologies.