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 fundamental skills course is designed to acquaint students with theatre production spaces, practicum protocol, and the efficient use of shop and stage equipment. Additionally, this course will prepare students with an appreciation and understanding of performance requirements, which may include the department's production position agreement, hair and makeup needs, microphone usage, costume care, and production responsibilities. Graded CR/NC. Cannot be repeated for credit.
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 various production areas such as: scenic, lighting, costumes, props, stage management, or backstage production crew. The specific area will be assigned by theatre faculty at the start of the semester taking into consideration each student's experience, their educational needs, and the technical needs of each production. Graded CR/NC. Two credit registration requires instructor approval.
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. AE
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.
This course explores the principles and practice of acting through song. Its purpose is to explore a variety of approaches to provide an integration of acting, vocal and stylistic techniques, so each supports and strengthens the other. Restricted to music, music theatre, and theatre majors and minors.
This course surveys musical theatre scenes from 1910-1970. With particular focus on character development for the musical theatre performer and building upon prior acting, voice, and dance course foundations. Students will work to explore the acting and stylistic requirements of the period genres and the musicianship requirements of the musical styles. Prerequisites: MUTH 170, THTR 207. Restricted to music theatre majors. Restricted to students with junior standing or higher.
This course surveys musical theatre scenes from 1970- present. With particular focus on character development for the musical theatre performer and building upon prior acting, voice, and dance course foundations. Students will work to explore the acting and stylistic requirements of the period genres and the musicianship requirements of the musical styles. Prerequisite: 326. Restricted to music theatre majors. Restricted to students with junior standing or higher.
A survey of music theatre history and literature from 1866 to the present, this course provides an understanding of the continuing development of music theatre into the present day. Attention will be given to the writers and composers who greatly influenced and/or continue to influence the development of the form.