Theatre
(THTR)
100—Theatre Appreciation, 3 Cr.
This general course includes an
examination of all aspects of theatre for the purpose of achieving a greater
understanding of play production and an appreciation of the work of theatre
artists.
107—Acting I: Fundamentals, 3 Cr.
This course explores the practical
“nuts and bolts” of acting. Students will be challenged to expand their
expressive potential as they exercise body, voice and imagination through improvisation,
physical and vocal work and acting exercises. Restricted to theatre and music
theatre majors and minors.
119—Theatre Practicum
This course is a hands-on learning
experience in theatre production. Students will gain practical skills and essential
knowledge of what it takes to mount a production for the stage by working in one
of five production areas; scene shop, lighting, costume shop, props or public
relations/management. While this course carries no credit, it is part of the
active learning requirement for all majors and minors. The specific assignment
will be made by the theatre faculty at the beginning of the semester taking
into consideration each student’s experience, their educational needs and the
technical needs of each production. Students are required to fulfill a minimum
of 35-45 practicum hours over the course of the semester.
121—Voice and Speech I, 3 Cr.
This practical performance laboratory
explores the vocal and physical demands placed on the actor. Techniques are
learned for gaining physical ease, and releasing tension to free the voice to
become more expressive. Standard American Stage speech will be introduced and
actors will develop a regime for exercising vocal and physical expressiveness.
124—International Phonetic Alphabet,
1 Cr.
A practical laboratory course for the
exploration of phonetic foundations in the voice, this course includes work
with the International Phonetic Alphabet and dialects. Specific notation
techniques for pronunciation will be included.
147—Acting II: Fundamentals, 3 Cr.
This
is a continuation of the acting skills development begun in Acting I. The
course examines the fundamentals of the acting process through exercises and
scene study designed to strengthen such skills as trust, relaxation, listening,
imagination, concentration, ensemble and observation. Upon completion of this
course students will have a solid grounding in the fundamentals of acting and
will be able to apply and demonstrate this knowledge in performance.
Prerequisite: 107. Restricted to theatre and music theatre majors and minors.
155—Text Analysis, 3 Cr.
This course will engage the student in
a search for production and performance values in a given play script. The
student will learn how to read, interpret, and analyze dramatic texts as the
essential basis for all theatre production work. A vital element of the course
will be participation in all research, discussion, and involvement in the
‘virtual’ productions of each play and genre studied.
160—Stagecraft, 3 Cr.
This basic skills course is designed to
acquaint students with safe and efficient use of shop and stage equipment. The
development of skills for general scenic production and an understanding of
materials, techniques, and construction processes constitute the primary
emphasis of the course.
175—Costuming, 3 Cr.
An instruction and practical
application of costuming skills are included in this course which focuses on an
introduction to fashion history and the basic principles of costume design,
familiarization with textiles and basic costume construction terminology, and
training in hand and machine sewing.
180—Makeup Studio I, 2 Cr.
A practical approach to the design and
execution of makeup for the actor is explored. Principles of character analysis
and application are addressed. Skills serve as the basis for in-class projects.
207—Acting III: Scene Study, 3 Cr.
A continuation of Acting I, this course
will focus on scene study and character development. Students will learn to use
the script, research, and their imaginations to enter the world of the play and
bring characters to life. Memorization and rehearsal outside of class are
required for most projects. Prerequisites: 107, 155.
217—Acting IV: Advanced Scene Study,
3 Cr.
This course is a continuation of the
scene study and character development work begun in Acting III. Students will
solidify and deepen their ability to listen actively, play with authenticity
and make bold, specific acting choices
that create compelling dramatic situations. Memorization and rehearsal outside
of class are required for most projects. Prerequisites: 107, 155, 207.
221—Voice and Speech II, 3 Cr.
This course continues exploration of
the physiological and phonetic foundations of voice for the actor. Students
will extend the use of voice and body to play heighten language texts, and
learn to use the International Phonetic Alphabet as a tool for dialect study.
Prerequisite: 121.
225—Introduction to Directing, 3 Cr.
This introduction course is designed to
examine and explore the history and process of the play director. It will
introduce the student to the basic elements of stage direction and its function
in the production of stage performance. Prerequisites: 107, 155.
227—Acting V: Movement, 3 Cr.
This
is an experiential, movement-based acting class designed to cultivate physical strength,
flexibility, and expressiveness in the actor. Through exercises and
explorations, students will increase awareness of their own physical use and
expand their movement vocabulary. Students will discover that words alone can
sometimes be deceiving, but the body never lies. Prerequisites: 107, 155.
230—Principles of Theatrical Design,
3 Cr.
This introductory design course is
intended to acquaint students with a general understanding of the various
aspects and issues of design in the theatre, and to encourage students to
explore interests and abilities in design. Emphasis will be placed upon the
process of design for sets, costumes, lights, and properties, as well as upon period
historical styles as reflected in design.
243—Theatre in the City, 1 or 2 Cr.
A study of plays, current production,
playwrights, actors, and theatrical practices in selected cities, either in the
U.S. or abroad. This course culminates in a required field trip which allows on
site observation of theatrical practices, and consists of attending productions
and guest lectures as well as backstage tours. Additional fees required. May be
repeated for credit with different content. Graded CR/NC.
250—Stage Management, 3 Cr.
This course will address the role of
the stage manager as assistant to the director during rehearsals and in the
management of backstage activities during productions including scheduling,
company and union rules, rehearsal procedures, time management, scene shifts,
running, and touring.
256—Design and Production Studio, 1
Cr.
This course will provide students an
opportunity to explore the dynamics of theatrical production. The process will
be explored from early idea development through post-production evaluation. The
course will also provide an opportunity for students to develop practical
skills in the areas of leadership, team building, collaboration, production
communication and creative problem solving. The content of this course work
will be designed to amplify the education benefit of practical experience
gained through the departmental production assignments. Prerequisites: 160,
175. Restricted to students with sophomore standing or higher. May be repeated
once for credit.
260—Stage Lighting, 3 Cr.
This course establishes a foundation
for general stage lighting practices, with a focus on lighting equipment,
control, and design. Students will complete a variety of practical projects
both live and in the classroom. The student will be challenged to solve basic
lighting problems.
265—Drafting for the Stage, 3 Cr.
This course is intended to give the
technical theatre and design students a comprehensive use of technical drafting
for communication with the theatre. Students will encounter all drafting skills
involved in lighting and set design. Computer-aided drafting and visualization
programs will be utilized in the course.
276—Acting Studio, 1 Cr.
This course focuses on performance
requirements and techniques for the actor, including the process of preparation
to performance, and the stylistic differences between genres. The course
utilizes material from existing theatre literature in a variety of styles. Solo
and ensemble participation is expected of students. Restricted to theatre
majors. Restricted to students with freshmen or sophomore standing. May be
repeated for credit.
281—Theatre History and Literature
I, 3 Cr.
This course is a survey of Western
theatre practice and dramatic texts from the Greeks into the 17th century.
Students examine, in addition to the dramatic texts of the period, the impact
of performance spaces, aesthetic theories, religious beliefs, and the
contemporary politics of a given era on the development of drama. , , W
291—Theatre History and Literature
II, 3 Cr.
This course is a continuation of 281.
It is a survey of Western theatre practice and dramatic texts from the 17th
into the 19th century. Students examine, in addition to the dramatic texts of
the period, the impact of performance spaces, aesthetic theories, religious
beliefs, and the contemporary politics of a given era on the development of
drama. Prerequisite: 281.
300—Performing Arts Management, 3
Cr.
Particular
problems relating to theatre, music, dance, and presenting organizations will
be addressed in this introductory course. Contractual agreements, balancing the
necessities of performers and technical staff, scheduling, touring, and coping
with performance situations in a presenting house will be addressed. Arts
education and outreach and planning repertoire and program development, both
artistically and financially, will be included. (Equivalent to AADM 300.)
301—Theatre History and Literature
III, 3 Cr.
This course is a continuation of 281
and 291. It concludes the survey of Western theatre practice and dramatic texts
by focusing on the trends and playwrights that shaped the theatre from the turn
of the 20th century to the present. Prerequisite: 291.
307—Acting VI: Period Styles, 3 Cr.
In
this advanced-level acting course students will explore acting styles and
techniques needed to perform plays from a variety of historical periods and
genres. Through research, monologue, and scene study students will be
challenged to expand their physical, vocal, and emotional range to create
characters appropriate to a play’s period style. Prerequisites: 107, 121, 207,
217, 227.
318—Stage Management Studio, 1 Cr.
This course is designed to give the
student a comprehensive understanding of stage management and an opportunity to
apply that understanding as a part of the stage management team. Through
advanced problem solving techniques and group organizational dynamics, students
will apply their understanding of basic management theories as they relate to
the profession. Students will be provided with an overview of stage management
and the fundamental skills it demands, through both simulated and practical
exercises. The use of computers in the field will be addressed. Students will
have an opportunity to experience stage management in a practical setting through
service to departmental applications. Prerequisite: 250. May be repeated for
credit.
319—Theatre Practicum
This course is a hands-on learning
experience in theatrical production for students with advanced production
assignments or those who have completed four semesters of 119. Students will
develop practical skills and essential knowledge of what it takes to mount a
production for the stage by working in one of five production areas: scene
shop, lighting, costume shop, props or public relations/management. The course
is part of the active learning requirement for all theatre and music theatre
majors and minors. The specific assignment will be made by the theatre faculty
at the beginning of the semester taking into consideration each student's
experience, their educational needs and the technical needs of each production.
Students are required to fulfill 35-45 hours over the course of the semester.
Prerequisite: 119 (four semesters)
320—Drama of the American Repertory,
3 Cr.
This intensive reading course explores
those plays that are at the forefront of the American professional theatre
repertory. Content is adjusted to reflect those works that are currently the
most produced theatrical works in the U.S. Many are very recent, but others are
solid older texts that continue to generate audiences and revenue each year for
regional theatres.
321—Modern Latin American Drama, 3 Cr.
An introductory survey of late
twentieth century drama in Latin America. Representative plays will be read in
translation. Beginning with a brief overview of U.S. Latino theatre and
playwrights, as well as the work of Brazilian playwright and theorist, Augusto
Boal, the course will explore how modern Latin American dramatists focus on the
unique national issues and concerns that have confronted their individual
countries. Prerequisite: ENGL 104.
325—Directing, 3 Cr.
This course examines and applies the
fundamentals of play direction: play selection, casting, blocking, movement,
interpretation, and production organization. Prerequisite: 225.
327—Verse Drama, 3 Cr.
The
focus of this advanced-level acting class is learning to play Shakespeare.
Students will explore and strengthen the actor’s basic tools (body, voice, and
imagination) as they learn to analyze text for playable clues to character and
circumstance. Specific attention will be given to understanding scansion and
learning to identify basic figures of speech that will increase understanding,
strengthen character development and, above all, help the actor play with clarity,
purpose, and humanity. Prerequisites: 107, 121, 207, 217, 227.
331—Scene Design, 3 Cr.
An extension of 230, this course allows
the student designer to continue to investigate and apply basic principles of
design in the creation of appropriate theatrical environments. The course focus
is project and presentation based, giving students problems to solve in
drafting, rendering, and model making. Script analysis, period research, and
oral design presentation afford student designers the opportunity to develop
portfolio work for future professional development. Prerequisites: 230, 265.
332—Costume Design, 3 Cr.
This study of clothing as a
communication tool in the theatre places an emphasis on the psychology and
sociology of color and form. Play analysis, historical research skills, and the
principles of design are the focus of in-depth study. Costume rendering and
construction techniques are gained. Prerequisites: 175, 230.
333—Lighting Design, 3 Cr.
A practical approach to stage lighting
techniques, this course offers the student opportunities to experiment with
methods of graphic presentation, theoretical approaches and practical execution
of class projects. Prerequisites: 230, 265.
334—Properties Design, 3 Cr.
This course encompasses the area of properties
research, design, construction and painting. The student involves himself in a
variety of prop-related problems and finds the most effective solution
possible. Prerequisite: 230.
343—Theatre History and Literature,
3 Cr.
A comprehensive survey course that
encompasses the study of important periods of western theatre history and
dramatic literature form the Greeks through the present. The course will look
in depth at the people who have created theatre by perfecting traditional forms
or developing new ones. Highly influential dramatic texts in the Western Canon
will be read and analyzed. Upon completion, the student will have an
understanding of the forces which shaped the past, and be able to relate
present theatrical styles, theories, and plays to the past. Intended for
students of varied backgrounds and majors who want to gain an overview and
understanding of the development of theatre. Prerequisite: ENGL 104 or 105 or
195.
351—Theatre Rendering Techniques, 3
Cr.
This course focuses on the major
painting mediums, styles of illustration, and techniques utilized in the visual
presentation of scenic, costume, properties, and lighting designs for the
theatre.
354—Sound/Video Studio, 3 Cr.
This course covers the basics of sound
and video use in theatres. System design, assembly, and use are discussed, as
well as some theory and applicable electrical principles.
355—Scene Painting, 3 Cr.
A study of application techniques for
the theatre painter, the course focus is on class projects designed to provide
the student with opportunities to handle a wide range of subject matter and to
employ a variety of painting methods. Emphasis is placed upon the ability to
reproduce details, colors, and styles.
356—Design and Production Studio, 1
Cr.
This course will provide students an
opportunity to explore the dynamics of theatrical production. The process will
be explored from early idea development through post production evaluation. The
course will also provide an opportunity for students to develop practical
skills in the areas of leadership, team building, collaboration, production
communication and creative problem solving. The content of this course work
will be designed to amplify the education benefit of practical experience
gained through the departmental production assignments. Prerequisite: 256.
Restricted to students with sophomore standing or higher. May be repeated once
for credit.
361—Technical Direction and
Production Management, 3 Cr.
This course is intended to continue the
exploration and development of technical theatre and production management
skills introduced in 160, Technical Production. Advanced technical issues
associated with rigging, computer technology, and special effects as well as
budgeting, purchasing and the role of a production manager will be addressed.
The focus will be on training future technical and production managers.
Prerequisites: 160, 250, 265.
365—Computer Aided Drawing, 3 Cr.
The main objective of this class is to
teach the basic components of the common computer drafting programs (such as
Auto CAD and Vector Works) as they relate to theatre. Through lectures,
demonstrations and weekly projects the student should grasp the basic
understanding of the programs and how to use them in a theatrical environment.
Prerequisites: 230, 265.
368—Costume Crafts, 2 Cr.
Costume crafts is a hands on, studio
course that examines the materials and techniques that students will use to
make various costume accessories including but not limited to: hats, ruffs,
footwear, wigs, fans, gloves, chain mail, and masks.
375—Advanced Costuming, 3 Cr.
The purpose of this advanced costuming
course is to allow students to further explore, develop, and apply skills and
techniques introduced in 175. This course will focus on such advanced costuming
skills as draping, cutting, pattern-making, construction, and basic tailoring.
Prerequisite: 175.
378—History of Theatrical Design, 3 Cr.
This course gives students an
understanding of the history of scenic, costume, and lighting design from the
theatre of Shakespeare through the modern era. Students will explore the trends
and techniques that continue to influence the work of influential theatrical
designers, making them well versed in the history of their profession and
craft.
390—Educational Methods, 2 Cr.
Principles and general methods for
teaching theatre in secondary education are discussed, explored, and applied.
Prerequisite: EDUC 330.
407—Acting VIII: Audition, 1 Cr.
This course for senior performance
majors, addresses the practical issues of beginning an acting career. Students
will develop an extensive repertoire of audition monologues, learn basic stage
and camera audition techniques, research career opportunities and graduate
schools, hone their résumés and increase their understanding of what it takes
to become a professional actor. Restricted to students with junior standing or
higher Restricted to music theatre and theatre (acting) majors
424—Advanced Stage Management, 3 Cr.
This course is a further examination of
practical and theoretical considerations in the process of stage management as
it applies to both producing and presenting organizations. The student will be introduced
to financial, contractual, facility, administrative, and management
considerations unique to the production of performance and arts events in both
professional and academic environments. The focus of this course centers on
stage management for the commercial theatre with an emphasis on process and the
current conditions in the industry as a whole. Topics will include associated
issues in working with unions (AEA and IATSE), interpersonal skills and the
negotiation of conflict resolution. Prerequisite: 250.
440—Race in American Theatre, 3 Cr.
This survey course reflects how
contemporary playwrights of color (1960 to the present) have utilized theatre
and drama to examine racial tension in America. All the plays deal directly
with the experience of living in a racial or ethnic micro-culture, and are
studied in their historical context. Content includes works by African-,
Hispanic-, Native-, and Asian-American playwrights.
443—Theatre in the City, 1 or 2 Cr.
A study of plays, current production,
playwrights, actors, and theatrical practices in selected cities, either in the
U.S. or abroad. This course culminates in a required field trip which allows on
site observation of theatrical practices, and consists of attending productions
and guest lectures as well as backstage tours. Additional fees required. May be
repeated for credit with different content. Graded CR/NC.
453—Advanced Theatrical Design, 3 Cr.
This is a studio class that will
provide students with a high level experience in theatrical design. Students
may elect a concentrated project experience in one or two of the following
design areas; sets, costume, lighting. Students will explore the advanced
design problems of style, collaboration, and conceptualization. Through this course each student will
complete and present two fully developed design solutions. Prerequisites: two
courses from 331, 332, 333, 334.
456—Design and Production Studio, 1
Cr.
This course will provide students an
opportunity to explore the dynamics of theatrical production. The process will
be explored from early idea development through post production evaluation. The
course will also provide an opportunity for students to develop practical
skills in the areas of leadership, team building, collaboration, production
communication and creative problem solving. The content of this course work
will be designed to amplify the education benefit of practical experience
gained through the departmental production assignments. Prerequisite: 356.
Restricted to those of sophomore standing or higher. May be repeated for credit
one time.
465—Playwriting, 3 Cr.
The art of dramatic writing is
explored, as well as the production of scripts for stage presentation.
Prerequisite: ENGL 104
476—Acting Studio, 1 Cr.
This course focuses on performance
requirements and techniques for the actor, including the process of preparation
to performance, and the stylistic differences between genres. The course
utilizes material from existing theatre literature in a variety of styles. Solo
and ensemble participation is expected of students. Restricted to theatre
majors. Restricted to students with junior standing and higher. May be repeated
for credit.
490—Senior Thesis, 1 Cr.
This senior-level capstone course
allows students to work on a faculty-approved production project in their
primary area of focus and concentration. This course is required of all BFA and
BA theatre majors; student teaching is considered the “capstone project” for
students in the BS in theatre education major. Restricted to theatre majors.
Permission of department required.