Performing Arts   

Athens was the intellectual and artistic center of ancient Greece. A drama festival honoring the god Dionysus was held there every spring; ideas and values presented in those plays have profoundly influenced Western thought. We will read a selection of plays written by Aeschylus, Sophocles, Euripides and Aristophanes in their historical context, exploring their structure, themes and enduring significance. Prerequisites: Previous experience with the classics is helpful but not required. Required textbooks: The Complete Aeschylus, Volume I: The Oresteia, eds. Peter Burian and Alan Shapiro (2011), ISBN: 978-0199753635; Oedipus Tyrannus by Sophocles, trans. Peter Meineck and Paul Woodruff (2000), ISBN: 978-0872204928; Medea by Euripides, trans. Diane Svarlien (2008), ISBN: 978-0872209237; and Lysistrata by Aristophanes, trans. Sarah Ruden (2003), ISBN: 978-0872206038.

We will watch and discuss films featuring political crime and corruption, and compare them with their source material. Prerequisites: Participants must have a working email. Note: Films will be close-captioned. Recommended textbooks (any edition): All the King's Men by Robert Penn Warren (1947); Absolute Power by David Baldacci (1996); Wag the Dog by Larry Beinhart (1993); and All the President's Men by Carl Bernstein and Bob Woodward (1974).

We will trace the development of Jewish comedy in the U.S. from its immigrant roots to contemporary stand-up and television. Through lecture, discussion and video clips, we will examine how humor reflects identity, assimilation and cultural tension, and how Jewish comedians helped define American comedy itself. Note: Participants may experience off-color language.

We will build on the fundamentals from previous improv courses or experience and learn to make strategic performance choices that elevate the overall production. We will master show structure by breaking down the mechanics of a flawless performance, develop host skills to lead the room with confidence and unlock advanced engagement techniques to create a memorable experience for the audience. Prerequisites: CFS’s Introduction to Improv or equivalent experience; contact the instructor with questions. Note: Participants will perform a short-form improv show at the Reuter Center on November 16.

Centuries after she lived, Jane Austen (1775-1817) still captures our imaginations. We will read one of her earliest works, Lady Susan, an epistolary novella, and her last novel, Persuasion; examine the arc of her writing life; view several films; and consider whether she was a conformist or subversive author. Note: The instructor will provide links to additional online materials. Required textbooks (both by Jane Austen; any edition): Lady Susan (circa 1794) and Persuasion (1817).

We will listen to some of the marvelous, shorter orchestral masterpieces conducted by the instructor over his career, hear about the composers and explore historical context. This course is great for participants who want a fun introduction to classical music with a peek behind the curtain of how orchestras and conductors do their job. This term, we will explore music that celebrates holidays from the second half of the year in addition to some famous musical orchestral stories. Note: Participants do not need to have taken part 1 of this course to enjoy part 2.

Most of us know what the Marx Brothers look and sound like without understanding their lives. We will learn more about Chico (1887-1961), Harpo (1888-1964), Groucho (1890-1977), Gummo (1892-1977) and Zeppo (1901-1979) Marx, considered by critics, scholars and fans to be among the greatest and most influential comedians of the 20th century. We will watch and discuss key films—including Animal Crackers (1930), Duck Soup (1933), Horse Feathers (1932) and Monkey Business (1931)—that reflect the evolution of the troupe.

We will learn to craft and perform original stand-up comedy in a fun, supportive environment. We will learn about writing jokes, storytelling, timing and stage presence. Through hands-on exercises and feedback, each of us will build confidence and develop a short set that will be performed live at the Reuter Center on November 14. Note: Participants may experience off-color language. Materials fee (payable to instructor): $20 for videographer.

We will listen to and talk about how various forms of music interact and lead to new innovations in popular music in the United States. Each week, we will focus on a specific musician to explore how music connects with and moves us. Prerequisites: Participants do not need to have taken part 1 of this course to enjoy part 2.