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.
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.
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 and body to become more expressive. Actors will develop a regimen for exercising vocal and physical expressiveness. Restricted to theatre and music theatre majors.
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.
Through its focus on dramatic literature as a written art form, Text Analysis fulfills the goals of the Literary Analysis core by cultivating students ability to interpret how language, structure, and genre shape meaning and to construct written interpretations grounded in textual evidence. The course situates theatre as a mode of literary inquiry, enabling students to apply critical reading and analytical writing skills transferable to all forms of literary study. Prerequisite: 104 or C or higher in 105 or C or higher in 195. LA
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.
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.
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.
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, 147.
This course is a continuation of the scene study and character development work begun in Acting II. 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.