This course is an introduction to theatre that will develop your ability to appreciate, analyze, and respond to live art, with special attention given to the current efforts in the theatre to diversify and better represent people and stories from historically excluded populations. In this course, you will learn about the work of playwrights, directors, actors, and designers, as well as about theatre’s unique qualities, complex history, and varied forms. Practically, the course will involve exploring play scripts and videos of plays and musicals, reading textbook chapters and other articles and excerpts, watching and taking notes over video lectures, taking open-book quizzes and exams, responding to discussion board posts, and completing creative projects. No prior experience in theatre is necessary – all are welcome! Also, for the Winter Term version of this course, you will be required to find, purchase tickets for, and attend a LIVE PERFORMANCE of a play or musical - college-level or professional - in whatever area you are in at the time you are taking the course. If you are in the Binghamton or the NYC area, the professor will provide resources to help you find a show within your budget. Or, if you are outside of those areas, the professor will be available to help you, but you will be responsible for exploring the local offerings near you. Just remember: this is a class about live theatre, so in order to pass the course, you must actually see and respond to at least one live theatre production by the end of the term. THIS 4 CREDIT COURSE IS APPROPRIATE FOR FIRST-YEAR STUDENTS, AND HAS NO PREREQUISITES OR COREQUISITES.