Introduction to Performance Studies
Surveys performance as a lens for understanding culture and behavior.
Difficulty
Moderately challenging
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3.0/ 5
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Worth it?
100% would recommend it
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What you will study and do
Curriculum and careers
Performance Studies critically examines performance in its broadest sense -- theater, ritual, everyday behavior, and cultural expression -- combining practical performance training with critical theory. Students explore how performance shapes identity, culture, and social meaning.
Core course themes
Performance Theory
Introduces critical frameworks for analyzing performance.
Devised Performance
Hands-on studio course creating original collaborative performance work.
Performance and Identity
Examines how performance shapes and expresses identity.
Ritual and Everyday Performance
Studies performance in contexts beyond traditional theater.
Senior Capstone Performance or Thesis
Culminating creative or research project in performance studies.
Common roles
- Performing Artist
- Arts Administrator
- Cultural Program Coordinator
- Theater Educator
- Content Creator
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Performance Studies by school
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Careers & next stepsPositive
What are you hoping to do after studying Performance Studies, and how has the major helped you explore or prepare for your options?
After studying performance studies I hope to teach or pursue something within the arts industry on stage or helping people with their on stage experiences.
- Interested in Arts & media · Education
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