Abstract:

Field of Study: Performing Arts
Dates of Project: January 2008-November 2009

Purpose:
• Explains the difficulties and problem solutions in developing a university theatre program at the American University of Sharjah, then explores the impact of those developments on student life.
• Weighs the difficulties against outcomes and potential for future growth.

Abstract:
• Over the course of a two-year period, during the establishment of the theatre program at American University of Sharjah, this paper explores both the difficulties and solutions of staging university level theatrical productions on the Arabian Peninsula, but also the impact of the program on university life and culture. In part one, it deals with the social implications in Islamic culture and how problems of performance have been handled, as well as potential benefits of those solutions. It also explores practical staging problems in developing theatre pieces and their solutions. In part two, it explores student responses to the program. How have students benefitted, and how has theatrical activity improved their lives and enhanced their culture?

Research Conducted:
• Developing five theatre productions at American University of Sharjah during a two-year span.
Productions: Romeo and Juliet (Shakespeare), A Servant to Two Masters (Goldoni), The Seagull (Chekhov), Neveshaya (original movement and dance piece) and Two Plays by Tawfiq Al Hakim
• Surveys and responses of students on and off-campus, and how their lives have been changed or affected. Explores the impact on those who are directly involved with production versus those who only attend performances.

Keywords:

Theatre, performing arts, drama.