ACADEMY 2025: Exploring Self, Society, and the Soul with Mid-Century American Playwrights

After World War II, American theater-makers became interested in overturning old traditions by exploring psychoanalysis and naturalism. At the same time, Americans were examining and questioning systemic injustice. Mid-century playwrights like Tennessee Williams explored the ways both personal relationships and the pressures of society at large can push the human heart to its breaking point. In this 6-week intensive scene study class, actors will delve into the complex work and heightened language of great playwrights like Williams, Lorraine Hansberry, Clifford Odets, Alice Childress, and Arthur Miller. Through text analysis, body work, and intensive, process-oriented scene study, actors will learn to make some of theatre’s greatest roles soar.

April 9, April 16, April 23, April 30, May 7, May 14