Science as Art in Contemporary Theatre

In this course we will explore the complementary ways that theater and science seek out their respective forms of truth by reading and performing scenes from a host of highly-regarded plays that engage with the mathematical sciences. Examples include Arcadia by Tom Stoppard (chaos and thermodynamics), Copenhagen by Michael Frayn (quantum theory), and Proof by David Auburn (mathematics). Taking a hands-on approach, we will engage in a series of labs and scene work with the goal of experiencing how playwrights have employed science to craft richly human stories for the stage.