PULLMAN, Wash. — Students at Washington State University have been exploring the connection between theatre and academics in a unique way. Elwood Hartman, professor of French in the Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures, used the university production of “A Flea In Her Ear” to teach French.
“The class introduced me to a culture I didn’t know WSU had,” says Jennica Vincent, one of the students who enrolled in FOR L 400, a one-credit class that included attending a performance of the play, a discussion of the script and a written critique of the play in French. “We were given an in-depth look into the play, both the script and the performance that enabled us to compare theater cross-culturally,” says Vincent.
The idea for the class came to Professor Hartman while serving on a Theatre Committee last year. After receiving some background information about the author and his work, Professor Hartman designed a course in conjunction with the play.
“Taking the class was like a backstage look into the script, and I would definitely like to have that same perspective of another great play,” Jennica Vincent said. Nicole Reynoso another student in the class adds, “The play was great, and Mr. Hartman is an awesome teacher. I would recommend this class to others!”
Although similar classes have not been scheduled, the success of this class could mean similar classes in the future. Laurilyn Harris, director of the Theatre program, welcomed the idea saying, “Such interdisciplinary approaches to theatre are actively sought by the drama faculty and students.”
“A Flea in Her Ear” continues today (Nov. 15) and Nov. 16. All performances are at 8 p.m. General Admission tickets are $8 for adults, $6 for seniors and $4 for students. For further information contact the theatre at 509/335-7447.
