Latin American theatre and performance, this course suggests, have always been caught up with the region’s turbulent political history. Although the plays and performance practices we will explore make strong claims at aesthetic distinction, this is not their primary reason for being. These works are in constant dialogue with the events shaping them. We will trace the ‘stages of conflict’ reflected in this theatre by moving from the 16th to the 21st century. Readings will include plays by many of Latin America’s major playwrights. Online resources include “Stages of Conflict” website and Holy Terrors.