Performing Arts Institute
In live performance, no one works alone. From the set and lighting designers to the costuming team, stage managers, choreographers, and performers, the team of artists working both behind the scenes and in front of the curtain all play a vital role. Whether you see a musical, ballet, play, or concert, collaboration between artists is key!
In this institute, you will have the opportunity to experience this collaboration in action through the lens of the performing arts. With major focuses on the importance of collaboration and community-building, you will learn about and experiment with Chance Procedures through the works of John Cage and Robert Wilson; practice various approaches to the creative process through Somatic practices, and movement generation; and work together to solve problems through group projects such as Prototyping. In addition, you will also have an opportunity to reframe your relationship to failure, for in the creative process these “happy accidents” can often lead to refinement and innovation. This course will conclude with a final project in which the entire class generates, executes, and presents a Pop-Up Exhibit or Gen Lab.
This program is intended for students with a strong interest in the performing arts, including production design, choreography, and performance. No performance, design or dance experience is required; only an openness to trying new things and working with others.
Prerequisite: none
Our High School Summer Institutes were created for students to experience college-level curriculum without the pressure of a letter grade. Each institute has a specific theme or focus and includes traditional undergraduate classroom activities like lectures, discussions, small group collaboration, and final projects. Students explore the connections between different fields of study as they examine scholarly text and engage with WashU affiliated instructors. These programs are designed for students to ask questions, collaborate with peers, and consider new ideas. Class sizes are small (typically between 15-20 students) to ensure student receive personalized feedback from instructors.
