Invitation to Theatre

This college course is a joyful yet rigorous deep dive into ensemble-based creation, where the skills of the stage are directly translated into essential life skills. We use foundational theatre techniques—including dynamic devising, improvisation, and expressive work like clowning—to directly address two core areas:

• Public Speaking & Confidence: By stepping into various roles and performing in a supportive environment, students will cultivate the self-assurance needed to speak persuasively in any setting.

• Effective Collaboration: Theatre is the ultimate act of teamwork. Students will be challenged to build a true ensemble, learning to give and receive feedback constructively, negotiate creative choices, and work interdependently toward a shared artistic vision. You will develop the essential communication and listening skills required to be a valuable and dynamic team member both on and off the stage.

You will leave this course not only with a passion for performance but with heightened self-assurance and the ability to be a more dynamic, persuasive, and collaborative communicator for the rest of your academic and professional life.

Skills/Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, students will:

• Understand the foundational roles in theatre-making (actor, director, designer, playwright).
• Develop comfort and confidence performing, devising, and collaborating.
• Learn how to create original characters and stories through object theatre and clowning.
• Analyze and engage with 365 Days/365 Plays by Suzan-Lori Parks as a source of creative inspiration.
• Practice ensemble-based theatre-making rooted in generosity, presence, and play.

Overall Takeaways

Students leave this immersive experience equipped with:

• The foundational knowledge to pursue more advanced study or creative projects in theatre.

• Transferable life skills—including dynamic communication, teamwork, and critical thinking—essential for success in any academic or professional field.

• An experience of the power of theatre to convey ideas and emotions, enhancing both personal expression and academic exploration.

• 3 college credits

Instructor Bio

Fadi Skeiker is a professor of theatre, specializing in diasporic identities and the intersection of theatre and social justice. Fadi has extensive experience in both academic and practical theatre settings, focusing on collaborative and experiential learning. Fadi is passionate about using theatre as a tool for personal growth and community engagement.