Active citizens are resourceful and creative subjects. They consider issues from several points of view and know that there is usually more than one right answer for serious challenges. In other words, citizenship is an art. Another name for this creative practice is “cultural agency”; it works within limited material and political conditions in order to stretch existing rights and resources. Our course will feature exemplary artist-agents in Lima and learn from them how performance and politics engage one another. Grupo Cultural Yuyachkani, a major theatre collective known for its innovative combination of Andean and European theatrical forms, and its strong commitment to grass-roots community issues, mobilization, and advocacy, will be our primary model and trainer through intensive workshops and discussion. Studio classes with Yuyachkani focus on the use of voice, body, masks, and objects in performance composition. Readings, other workshops with distinguished anthropologists and artists, lectures and site visits will round out this extraordinary experience.

Knowledge of Spanish is desirable but not required. No previous performance experience necessary.