The objective of the course is to map the phenomenon of the avant-garde theatre in the United States. It will see the international context of the movement, follow initial attempts in the pre-WWII US and focus on the movement proper in the 1960s and onwards. Students will learn various theoretical approaches to avant-garde theatre; study the history of the US avant-garde theatre; learn about the most representative authors, productions and theatre collectives. As a result, students will learn about an important phenomenon in the US culture and art history. This course will contribute to their knowledge of 20th Century and contemporary American literature, drama, theatre and performance art.