Improvisation
Theater 463 4:30 – 5:30 p.m. T and TH
Arts and Comm W18
Instructor: Dan Katula katulad@uwosh.edu
Office: W119   Phone: 4425
Office Hours:  TBA


COURSE DESCRIPTION

This course is an introduction to improvisational theatre. Students will explore techniques used in the creation of spontaneous and unscripted live performance. This course will examine different uses of improvisation in theatre including rehearsal techniques, character development, improvisational comedy and sketch writing.

COURSE OBJECTIVES

•    A major objective of this course is to develop an environment which allows for freedom and spontaneity without fear of judgment. Improv is a shared activity which requires that participants foster the group’s efforts both through encouragement and critique.

•    The group will work together to build a basic set of improvisational skills including a common vocabulary.

•    The group will learn to apply these skills to both long and short form improvisational styles.

•    The group will gain a greater and more flexible ability to react spontaneously and truthfully to partners in scene work.

INSTRUCTOR PHILOSOPHY

The truth is funny.

REQUIREMENTS

•    Two written critiques of student improvised scenes. Instructions to be given in class.

•    A group project using improv techniques to develop a sketch or a scene.

•    Two public performances, one centered on short form and one centered on long form improvisational theatre will be required. Students taking this course for one credit are encouraged, but not required to participate in the public performances.

•    You are required to see three upcoming UW-Oshkosh theatre performances. Tickets are available for $3.00 with your student ID. Call and reserve tickets with the Box office 424- 4417. You must pick up your tickets 15 minutes prior to curtain. A sign-in sheet will be posted in the theatre lobby each night of the performance during the latter part of the play. YOU MUST SIGN YOUR NAME ON THE SHEET IN ORDER TO BE ON THE LIST OF ATTENDEES. NO EXCEPTIONS.  

Dogs of the Blue Gods & The Sugar Plum Fairy
by Ian Fraser
February 20-23, 2008 at 7:30 pm, February 24 at 2 pm
 
Student Directed One-Acts
March 13-15, 2008 at 7:30 pm

The Glass Menagerie
By Tennessee Williams
April 25- 28, 2008 at 7:30 pm, April 29 at 2 pm

ATTENDANCE AND PARTICIPATION

Attendance is mandatory. After one unexcused absence, your grade will be lowered one letter grade for each subsequent unexcused absence. There are no excused absences after the fact.

Students are expected to participate in all classroom activities with a high level of focus, energy and enthusiasm.

PROPER CLOTHING

Please come to class dressed in a manner that allows you to move comfortably. (think “work-out”)

GRADING
 
Requirement 3 Credit Students 1 Credit Students
2 Written Critiques 25 points each 25 points each
Attend 3 UW-Oshkosh Performances 25 points each 25 points each
1 Group Project 100 points 200 points
2 Public Performances 100 points each Not Required
Applied Demonstration of Techniques 150 points 200 points
Participation 25 points 75 points
600 Points 600 Points

 
GRADE BREAKDOWN
 
Grade Points Equivalent
A 570 +
AB 540 – 569
B 510 – 539
BC 490 – 509
C 460 – 489
CD 430 – 459
D 375 - 429
F 374 and below



SUGGESTED READING

Impro: Improvisation and the Theatre by Keith Johnston

Improvisation for the Theater 3E: A Handbook of Teaching and Directing Techniques (Drama and Performance Studies) by Viola Spolin

Commedia Dell'Arte: An Actor's Handbook by John Rudlin

Zen in the Art of Archery by Eugen Herrigel and Daisetz T. Suzuki

Please see the D2L page for useful websites.