ASIA 216
Asian/American Identities in Motion Fall 2023
Division I Difference, Power, and Equity
Cross-listed THEA 216 / DANC 216 / AAS 216 / GBST 214 / AMST 213

The course aims to explore dance and movement-based performances as mediums through which identities in Asian and Asian-American (including South-Asian) communities are cultivated, expressed, and contested. Students will engage with how social and historical contexts influence the processes through which dance practices are invested with particular sets of meanings, and how artists use performance to reinforce or resist stereotypical representations. Core readings will be drawn from Dance, Performance, Asian, and Asian American Studies to engage with issues such as nation formation, racial and ethnic identity politics, appropriation, tradition and innovation among other topics. This is primarily a discussion-based seminar course, and might also include screenings, discussion with guest artists and scholars, and opportunities for creative projects. No previous dance experience is required.