This semester, students were offered the opportunity to take a course that combines two career paths: Spanish education and performance. Instructor of the course Kelli Dodd-Steffen is looking forward to teaching this course because “as a member of the Actor’s Equity Association myself, I am passionate about the content.” The course is called Hispanic Theatre and Performance (SH 315), which interactively integrates theory and practice. The theoretical side of the course delves into the significance of art in a society and an overview of how theatre and performance are embodied in Spain, Latin America, and the U.S. Students are studying past and present origins, influences, plays, music, dance, and authors.  

The practical side of the course helps students to continue developing a communicative proficiency in reading, listening, writing, and speaking the Spanish language by “preparing the actor” in Spanish. Students are also given performance opportunities to put that preparation into practice. “In my opinion, you don’t have to become an actor to benefit from studying the craft”, Dodd-Steffen said. “Confidence, communication, cooperation, empathy, and professionalism are some of the tools to be cultivated through this art form.” Dodd-Steffen hopes that by studying the role of theatre and performance in society, students taking the course will gain a broader understanding of the Spanish culture. Additionally, she hopes students will grow in their mastery of Spanish and gain more self-awareness and everyday skills.