Brandon University Students Showcase Theatre History Outdoors

Brandon University’s introduction to theatre class brought creativity to life on March 15, 2024, with an outdoor production titled “A Fool’s Guide to World Theatre History.” The performance took place in the Clark Hall courtyard, engaging students and passersby alike with its vibrant displays and thematic exploration.

The show featured an array of hand-painted puppets, music, and a dramaturgical exhibition that celebrated theatre traditions from various cultures. According to class instructor Alyson Doyle, this event served as the culminating project for students who were new to both the university and the field of theatre. Doyle emphasized her goal of creating an educational yet entertaining experience, allowing students to express their creativity collaboratively.

“These students are either new to the school or just taking the class for fun,” Doyle explained. “I wanted to create something meaningful and enjoyable that would introduce a wealth of information in an accessible way.”

The storyline, crafted collectively by the students, was inspired by recent discussions about freedom of expression and censorship in comedy. It follows a Greek comedian attempting to narrate the history of Greek theatre while being interrupted by jesters and performers from various global traditions, each eager to have their narratives acknowledged. “Essentially, it’s about different groups coming together to assert themselves in the world of theatre,” Doyle noted.

Among the characters featured were the Greek jester and significant figures like Emperor Wu of Han from China, representing shadow puppetry, and the Nigerian playwright Wole Soyinka. Students selected which characters and cultures to highlight, enriching the performance’s diversity.

Doyle divided the class into teams responsible for writing, painting, and puppeteering, allowing each group to delve into their interests before unifying their creative efforts. “They did a fantastic job,” she remarked. “They were empathetic and receptive to each other’s ideas, fostering a very collaborative process.”

In addition to the performance, students curated a dramaturgical display that illustrated how these characters have evolved across history and cultures. The culmination of their efforts provided an engaging and educational experience for the audience.

Looking ahead, Brandon University’s theatre department plans to continue its season with a production of “Mother Courage and Her Children” scheduled for December 2023. Doyle described this upcoming play as “very timely” and believes it will resonate with audiences.

“Look for that on our website,” she encouraged. “It’s another important story, and I think audiences will really connect with it.”

This outdoor production not only showcased the students’ talents but also highlighted the importance of collaboration and cultural representation in the arts. The event served as a reminder of theatre’s ability to unite diverse voices and perspectives.