Overview
This lecture introduces the course focus on theater appreciation, highlighting distinctions between art and entertainment, and previewing the foundational role of theater as a "seeing place."
Course Introduction
- The course is designed for audience members to appreciate theater, not to become performers or production workers.
- Emphasis is on understanding what happens "behind the scenes" in theater production.
Art vs. Entertainment
- The lecture explores the often ambiguous definitions of "art" and "entertainment."
- Common answers to "what is art?" (expression of oneself, inner emotion) do not clearly distinguish art from other actions or communication.
- Visual communication alone (e.g., stop signs) is not sufficient to define art, as it applies to many non-art objects.
- There is difficulty and subjectivity in defining art, leading to skepticism and potential for false claims.
Definitions Provided
- Art: Man's attempt to capture the human spirit and to touch upon intellectually elusive meanings.
- Entertainment: The pleasure afforded by being amused.
Introduction to Theater
- The word "theater" originates from the Greek "Theatron," meaning "seeing place."
- Future discussions will cover various arts and entertainments that take place in the theater.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Art — Man's attempt to capture the human spirit and engage with intellectually elusive meanings.
- Entertainment — The pleasure experienced from being amused.
- Theater — Derived from "Theatron," meaning "seeing place" in Greek.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Watch the next video for further clarification of these definitions and their relevance to theater.