Toy Theater

Toy Theatre was a popular parlor, cabaret, and
salon entertainment in Europe and America in the
19th Century. Toy Theatres (also known as Paper
Theater and Model Theater) were miniature
replicas of actual theaters and plays performed
on the stage in local theaters in London, Munich,
and other cities.

Through projects, viewings, and readings, we will
explore the traditional and contemporary practice
of Toy Theatre through its roots in the
peepshow, the diorama, and the cabinet of
curiosities. We will investigate related forms
such as Manga Kamishibai, a Japanese street
theater form that used miniature proscenium
theaters with changing illustrated boards. And we
will explore the use of Toy Theater by 20th/21st
Century artists, who have expanded this low-tech,
highly portable and expressive form as a vehicle
for abstract, personal, historical, or political
performances and installations. Video and
live-feed elements have expanded the
possibilities of the form.

Through a series of three projects, students will
design and create their own peepshows, dioramas,
and Toy Theater inspired performances, either in
response to a range of possible texts, or as
visual theater, film, video, or installation
works.

There may be additional fees associated with this
course for supplies, books, or other materials.
For more specific costs please view the syllabus
or speak with the instructor.