Humans have used performance as a means of entertainment and communication for thousands of years. Our western tradition alone includes many rich and varied performance styles that don't always look or sound like what we see on modern stages and movie screens. Nevertheless they all work towards the same goal of bringing us together to enjoy and discuss enduring topics. Throughout the year we'll be looking at several different historical styles of theater including the ancient Greeks, Commedia del Arte, Medieval mystery plays, as well as Shakespeare and the French dramatists of the 18th century. For each period we'll explore what it would have looked and sounded like in its own time and how each style can be modernized and performed in a relevant way for today's audience. This class includes performances at the Fall and Spring family nights.