ACADEMIC PROGRAM

Theatre, Cultures and Civilizations in Romania (Summer)

Please note this program will not run in Summer 2009.

Module 1: On-line Coursework

Distance learning will be utilized to provide program participants with a pre-departure orientation, academic assignments, research, and individual preparation needed for work that students will carry out during the international workshops in Romania. Required readings will be debated on electronic discussion boards. Research will be conducted on central themes that will be addressed during the International Workshops, as well as Balkans performing arts, folklore, traditions, arts, language and culture; introduction to geographical, historical, and social and economic aspects of Romania. Background research on participating countries and drama schools will be carried out.

Module 2: The 9th Edition of the International Workshops of Drama Schools of the ITI-UNESCO Chair of Theatre and Culture of Civilizations in Sinaia

Our students will join a select group of first-rate drama schools from around the world that have been invited to participate in this distinctive event. During 7 intensive days, students will actively participate in these international workshops which are focused on two main themes: Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet (The Feeling of Love) and Aeschylus’ Orestes & Electra (The Feeling of Hatred.) Demonstrative sessions, debates, and daily performances will provide an ample spectrum for theatre comparative study. Social gatherings with peers from Romania and other participating countries will strengthen international relationships between delegations. In the evenings, students will attend theatre performances at the Busteni’s International Theatre Festival.

Module 3: International Master Classes in Sinaia

During six intensive days, students will attend advanced workshops on “Breathing and Movement Techniques for the Performer” to be conducted by invited master teachers from 5 different drama schools from 5 different countries. This is a unique opportunity to attend classes with international teachers and international students from around the world. The work will culminate in an “Open Class.” Students will receive an International Certificate awarded by the UNESCO-ITI Chair. In addition, every evening there will be a course on Latin American Dance taught by Latin American teachers. Upon completion, there will be a dance contest among participants. This event will be recorded for television.

Module 4: IN ROMANIA: CULTURE AND CIVILIZATIONS

The cultural program will begin in Sinaia with planned field trips to the Peles Castle and the Monastery, among other spectacular sites in the area.  During a one-day trip to the mountains in Bucegi at 2,000 meter altitude, geological sites will be explored.  The visit to Transylvania and Central Romania will include the city of Sibiu, which has been declared the cultural capital of Europe in 2007.  The journey of discovery and research will conclude in Bucharest, Romania’s capital, with lectures at the Bulandra National Theatre, the House of Parliament and the Village Museum.