Eight More Plays by Tom Stoppard
Douglas Post
Drama and film are distinct but related art forms in which a director, cast, and crew collaborate to capture an audience’s imagination. We become immersed in stories, connect emotionally with actors’ performances, and marvel at powerful visuals.
In an open enrollment course from the University of Chicago Graham School, you can examine a variety of important films and dramas through a critical lens, considering the cultural contexts that influenced these artistic works. Guided by our faculty and instructors — including active practitioners such as film critics and playwrights — you will discuss the artistic and technical achievements that go into creating works to move audiences and stand the test of time.
All Drama & Film Courses
Why Study Drama and Film?
By studying drama and film, you learn about the techniques that make it possible to immerse audiences in a narrative. The curriculum instills an appreciation for the collaborative processes that lead from playwriting or screenwriting to a finished product. Students see how production decisions such as casting and cinematography — the way that images are composed and filmed — contribute to tell a story.
These courses demonstrate that film and drama can be more than entertainment. These media are a means to express the richness and diversity of human experience. Developing your understanding of these art forms adds depth and richness to your enjoyment and experience.
Drama and Film Instructors
Michael Latham
Open Enrollment Instructor
Douglas Post
Writer’s Studio Instructor, Playwright & Screenwriter
I believe the courses I’ve taught at the Graham School have allowed my students to delve into some of the greatest texts ever written for the theater, which deepens their love of this genre and allows them to consider plays as literature.
Douglas Post Graham School instructor & award-winning playwright
Frequently Asked Questions
Learn more about the Graham School’s drama and film courses.
Where can I find the films we watch for class?
Instructors include a list of films in the syllabus, which becomes available before the start of the course. The syllabus provides information on where to find the films, including streaming services. In many cases, films can also be found at local libraries.
What is the course format for drama and film classes?
Your instructor will ask you to complete a reading assignment or view a film and then come to class ready to discuss as a group.
Are these offerings online or in-person?
The Graham School offers both online and in-person class experiences. The description for each course specifies whether it will be offered online through Canvas or in person at the Gleacher Center in downtown Chicago.
Is there any acting involved in the drama classes?
Students and instructors may read aloud from assigned texts as a part of the classroom discussion, but there is no acting or directing required as a component of the class. These are discussions of drama, not acting classes.
Do I need previous academic or professional experience in drama or film to succeed in these courses?
Our drama and film courses are designed to be accessible and engaging even if students have no prior knowledge of the work we discuss. Our exceptional instructors present multiple ways of looking at plays and films to engage students with a wide range of backgrounds. These are interactive classes where you’re encouraged to participate and ask questions.
In the drama and film courses, do we focus on a single type of play or movie – or several?
Most of the drama and film courses we offer are built around a specific genre or theme. For example, a film course might revolve around a topic like film noir, films depicting a specific city, or films of the Middle East. A drama course could look at the works of an influential playwright or a particular era in the history of the stage. Refer to the course descriptions for details on current offerings.
Do you write papers or take tests in these classes?
There are no grades or written assignments in Graham open enrollment courses. Each week students are expected to complete their assigned readings or watch the assigned films and come to class ready to discuss.
How can I best prepare for class?
Complete any assigned reading and watch the assigned films and come prepared to participate actively in classroom discussion.
Do I have to complete an application to take part in an open enrollment course?
No application is required for open enrollment courses.
UChicago has a reputation for academic rigor. Will I be able to meaningfully participate in the classroom discussions?
Yes. These non-credit courses are built for adults who have life experience and want to learn. Our instructors encourage all students to participate, regardless of their educational background, creating an inclusive learning environment with a collegial atmosphere.
What’s it like to take a course in a Socratic seminar format?
Students come to each session prepared to engage in lively, respectful discussions about the assigned reading. With a small group of peers and your instructor, you’ll examine fundamental questions through the lenses of multiple disciplines and lived experiences.
Drama & Film News
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