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Hallie Flanagan's Theatrical Legacy at Vassar
Aug 26, 2024
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Lecture on Hallie Flanagan and Vassar's Theatrical Contribution
Introduction to Hallie Flanagan
Impactful Figure
: Pivotal in bringing experimental theater to Vassar College and broader U.S.
Current Project
: A new play is being developed about Vassar, which hasn't been done in a long time.
Production Details
Professional Collaboration
: Working with seasoned professionals and a great director, enhancing the production quality.
Play Characteristics
: Described as whimsical, playful, fluid, ensemble, intimate, professional, goofy, fast-paced, high stakes, exhilarating, and fun.
Significance
: Coincides with the sesquicentennial of Vassar College, exploring the idea of staging a new play about Hallie Flanagan.
Hallie Flanagan's Legacy
Pioneering Educator
: Vassar’s first professor of dramatic production and founder of the Vassar Experimental Theater.
Avant-Garde Productions
: Known for groundbreaking work, considered avant-garde even by current standards.
Federal Theatre Project
: Appointed director in 1935 to employ actors and directors during the Great Depression.
Controversy
: Shut down by the House Un-American Activities Committee over alleged communist ties.
Impact
: Her influence on American theater is significant and lasting.
Hallie Flanagan’s Inspiration and Achievements
Travel Influence
: Inspired by Russian theater during a Guggenheim trip, first woman to receive the fellowship.
Notable Work
: First play directed at Vassar was Anton Chekhov’s "A Marriage Proposal."
Personal Life
: An American scientist, a connection during her Leningrad trip.
The Play "Playground"
Themes
: An ode to theater encompassing both professional success and personal love stories.
Character Direction
: Captures Hallie as a woman excelling professionally while exploring personal life.
Constellation Metaphor
: Finding patterns in Hallie's story similar to connecting stars.
Site-Specific Nature of the Play
Historical Context
: Based on a historical Vassar production by a prominent professor.
Student Involvement
: Vassar students act as Vassar characters creating a unique dynamic.
Stage Dynamics
: Action occurs throughout the theater, including aisles, parterre, catwalks, etc.
Unique Experience
: Audience experiences shift based on seating, emphasizing the site-specific design.
The Importance of Specificity
Rooted in Place
: Story specifically designed for Vassar and its stage.
Broader Appeal
: Specificity enhances the universal appeal by focusing on relatable human experiences.
Cast Enthusiasm
: Noted dedication and readiness of the cast to make the production successful.
Conclusion
Emphasizes the significant contribution of Hallie Flanagan to American theater and Vassar's ongoing commitment to innovative theatrical practices.
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