PHYS 2790 - Science on Stage

In this course, we bring together the human experience of the scientist with its public perception as embodied in theatre. After all, what is more dramatic than the excitement (and terror) of discovery, that moment when the earth seems to shift beneath one's feet and everything appears changes? Playwrights have seen an explosion of new plays about science and scientists. science on Stage explores the range of science plays now available, with a particular interest in understanding how they reflect the public understanding of science, as well as understanding the science and theatre history that informs the play' content and form. Students will read plays on a variety of scientific, cultural, and theatrical terms. Throughout the semester, students will collaborate in interdisciplinary teams to discuss and synthesize course material in the conception of an original live performance event about science.