Texas Tech University

Saving Lives with Theatre: Rehearsing for Disaster

Dates:February 23, 2026
Meets:M from 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM
Cost: $15.00

There are still openings remaining at this time.

OR

Please note: this course requires membership in 24-25 Abilene Membership or 25-26 Abilene Membership or 24-25 Fredericksburg Membership or 25-26 Fredericksburg Membership or 24-25 Highland Lakes Membership or 25-26 Highland Lakes Membership or 24-25 Lubbock Membership or 25-26 Lubbock Membership

Theatre is more than entertainment—it is a powerful tool for training, preparedness, and care. This course explores how theatrical techniques are used in real-world, life-saving contexts such as healthcare simulation, disaster response training, emergency preparedness, and community education. Participants will learn how storytelling, character embodiment, environmental design, and applied performance help first responders and medical professionals rehearse complex, high-stakes situations safely and effectively. Drawing from large-scale disaster simulations and interdisciplinary collaborations, the course reveals how theatre artists contribute to realism, empathy, communication, and decision-making under pressure. No prior theatre experience is required.
Fee: $15.00

Fee Breakdown

CategoryDescriptionAmount
Course Fee (Basic)In-Person Fee$ 15.00
Course Fee (Alternate)OLLI Member$ 15.00

Maria Maria Prucha

Mallory Maria Prucha is an Associate Professor of Costume Design & Technology at Texas Tech University, whose research focuses on arts-integrated simulation, in addition to her primary disicpline. She leads large-scale disaster preparedness and healthcare training projects in partnership with medical, emergency management, and civic organizations, demonstrating how theatre practices directly support public safety, education, and resilience. www.malloryprucha.com

powered by ACEweb from ACEware Systems, Inc.