Theatre    102

3 (crs.)

Script Analysis for the Theatre

Analysis of the play script as a blueprint for production. Emphasis on plot, theme and character analysis. Plays studied in this course will serve as a foundation for subsequent theatre courses.

Theatre    131

1 (crs.)

Theatre Laboratory

Participation in theatrical production activities including directing, stage management, technical production, lighting, stage design, costuming, make up, acting, and theatre management in order to gain practical experience in aspects of theatre production. It is possible to register in more than one section with the instructor consent.

Theatre    150Q1

3 (crs.)

Introduction to Theatre Design (XC)(ES)

An introduction to the basic elements of theatre from both the Western and non-Western perspective with a special emphasis on the role of the theatrical designer and the process of design. Special course fees may apply.

Theatre    152Q2

3 (crs.)

Non-Western Theatre (XC)

A study of theatre outside the Euro-centric or Western tradition (to include African, Asian, and Indian, ritual, libation, dance, puppetry, masks, storytelling, etc.) which explores cultural differences and similarities in theatrical performance.

Theatre    160Q1

3 (crs.)

Introduction to Acting (XC)

Basic theories and techniques of acting. Body and voice training as a basis for development of dramatic characterization. Application of course content through performance presentations. Signature question of “How do people understand and create a more sustainable world?” will serve as a focus for the course.

Theatre    161

3 (crs.)

Introduction to Theatre (XC)

A survey of drama as an integral element in human society in its cultural aspects, intended to stimulate and develop an appreciation for drama as literature and theatre.

Theatre    162

3 (crs.)

Honors: Appreciation of the Drama

Investigation of the nature of dramatic form, survey of the development of theatrical expression in major historical periods, introduction to theatrical production processes, and a study of the theatre as the aesthetic and philosophical outgrowth of its culture. Topics will be explored through group projects, essays and oral reports. Students cannot earn credit in both an honors course and a non-honors course of the same title. Prerequisites: Enrolled in good standing with The Honors College, prior or concurrent enrollment in HNRS 175Q.

Theatre    165

3 (crs.)

Voice and Diction

Training course for the normal voice to precede courses in interpretation, acting, public address and other areas.

Theatre    167

1 (crs.)

Theatre Participation-Technical I

Participation in technical aspects of scenery, lighting, sound, properties, or costumes for program sponsored productions.

Theatre    168

1 (crs.)

Theatre Participation-Publicity and Management I

Participation in-house management, stage management, and publicity for the Theatre sponsored productions.

Theatre    180Q1

3 (crs.)

Creative Process (XC)

This course explores the nature of creativity in ourselves through Theatre games and exercises. It will expand awareness, stimulate imagination, and develop freedom of expression. The class will focus on increasing observation skills, discovering abilities of the body and voice, gaining knowledge of self and raising self-confidence. In addition, this class will heighten the student’s understanding of Theatre, dramatic action and performance on stage and in all artistic disciplines.

Theatre    202

3 (crs.)

Culture and Style (XC)

This course will explore the architecture, furniture, décor and clothing of cultures from Ancient Egypt through the Twentieth Century. It will examine the cultural differences and similarities, as well as the influences on prevailing styles throughout history. Special course fees may apply.

Theatre    203

3 (crs.)

Fundamentals of Design

Study of the skills, techniques, and process for designing for Theatre and camera. The course will focus on drafting and drawing skills, research methods, and the elements of design composition. Special course fees may apply.

Theatre    204

3 (crs.)

Survey of Theatre History (XC)

Survey of the major movements in theatre history; emphasis on methods of production: physical playhouse, staging techniques, acting, management; minor focus on criticism and dramatic literature. Prerequisite: THEATRE 102 or instructor consent.

Theatre    205

3 (crs.)

Fundamentals of Acting

Basic theories and techniques of acting. Body and voice training as a basis for development of dramatic characterization. Application of course content through presentation of scenes from distinguished dramatic literature.

Theatre    205Q1

3 (crs.)

Fundamentals of Acting (XC)

Basic theories and techniques of acting. Body and voice training as a basis for development of dramatic characterization. Application of course content through presentation of scenes from distinguished dramatic literature. The USP Signature Question connected with this course is based in gaining knowledge in civic knowledge and civic engagement in understanding that the self is always embedded in relationships, a social location, and a specific historic moment. As individuals, we need awareness of self and awareness of how to relate to and connect with others. Actors create characters by empathizing with and reflecting on the given circumstances of an imaginary person’s life experience and then share that experience with other actors and audiences

Theatre    210

1 (crs.)

Theatre Practicum I Scene Shop

Specialized intensive training and practice in theatrical scenery and props. Practicum will include use of machinery, tools, materials and techniques used in the construction of scenery and props for the theatre. Meets the Practicum requirement for Theatre majors and should be completed during the first or second year.

Theatre    212

1 (crs.)

Theatre Practicum II: Costume Shop

Specialized intensive training and practice in theatrical costumes and accessories. Practicum will include use of machinery, tools, materials and techniques used in the construction of costumes and accessories for the theatre. Meets the Practicum requirement for the Theatre majors and should be completed during the first or second year.

Theatre    214

1 (crs.)

Theatre Practicum III: Production

Specialized intensive training and practice working on running crew for theatre production. Practicum may include working in the areas of: lighting, sound, scenery, props, wardrobe, makeup or special effects. Meets the Practicum requirement for Theatre majors.

Theatre    216

1 (crs.)

Theatre Practicum IV: Advanced Production

Specialized intensive training and practice working as a crew supervisor or board operator for theatre production. Practicum may include working in the areas of: lighting, sound, scenery, props, wardrobe, makeup or special effects. Meets the Practicum requirement for Theatre majors.

Theatre    243

3 (crs.)

Women in the Arts: Encounters (XC)

Women in the Arts: Encounters is a team-taught interdisciplinary course which provides an overview of the significant contributions of women in the arts, while offering a critical look at individual achievements and at societal attitudes and limitations which have impacted the nature and direction of women’s artistic output. Students will gain hands-on experience through guided studio work in music, visual art and theater and the combination of these are forms via collaborative projects. Cross-listed: ART 243/MUSIC 243/THEATRE 243/WG STDS 243.

Theatre    253

3 (crs.)

Make-up for Stage and Screen

Study of the materials and techniques used in the creation and application of make-up in theatre, film and television.  This course includes 2D and 3D techniques for the purposes of establishing age and character. Special course fees may apply.

Theatre    260

1 (crs.)

Theatre Participation-Acting or Directing I

Participation as actor in Theatre sponsored productions (auditions required) or participation as director (application required the previous spring term) for Theatre sponsored production.

Theatre    262

1 (crs.)

Theatre Participation-Technical II

Participation in technical aspects of scenery, lighting, sound, properties, or costumes for Theatre sponsored productions.

Theatre    264

1 (crs.)

Theatre Participation Publicity and Management II

Participation in arts administration including: front of house management, box office management and publicity for the Theatre sponsored productions. Prerequisites: THEATRE 168 or instructor consent.

Theatre    275Q3

3 (crs.)

Interactive Theatre: Performing Difficult Dialogues on Diversity (XC)(ES)

Interactive Theatre is a performance mode designed to prompt difficult dialogues and to lead its participants both actors and audiences through a process of creating social changes. This course will provide students with the opportunity to learn and later employ the precepts of Interactive Theatre for the purpose of addressing issues of diversity, including (but not limited to) ethnic and racial diversity. Students will explore Interactive Theatre techniques from the perspective of actors, directors, designers, and playwrights.

Theatre    291

1 – 3 (crs.)

Selected Topics in Theatre

Selected topics in theatre.

Theatre    299

1 – 3 (crs.)

Intermediate Independent Study

Supervised undergraduate reading and research. See Independent Study under Course and Academic Advisement Policies information for general course description, general prerequisites, and proper contract form requirements.

Theatre    308

3 (crs.)

Acting Studio I: The Actor’s Resources

Introduction to the Acting Studio Program. Development of the actor’s physical and vocal expressiveness, imagination, and understanding of the acting process through vocal and physical exercises, improvisations, theatre games and introductory scene work.

Theatre    309

3 (crs.)

Acting Studio II: The Actor’s Text

Second course in the acting studio sequence. Skills acquired in the first term are applied to scripted work. Work with dramatic material which reflects the student’s range of personal experiences. Prerequisite: THEATRE 308 and instructor consent.

Theatre    313

3 (crs.)

Entertainment Law

Laws and regulations, which govern radio, television, motion pictures, and theatre. Includes the relationships of the broadcast/media manager, artistic director, producer, director, and actor to each other and to agencies such as Congress, the courts, the FCC and other regulatory agencies. Prerequisites: RTF students: Cumulative 2.5 GPA in RTF major or minor and RTF 115 and 310; Communication Studies Students: COMM 118 and 236; Theatre Students: THEATRE 102 or instructor consent.

Theatre    330

3 (crs.)

Stage Management

Study of principles and techniques of management for the stage, from prerehearsal preparations to running of rehearsals and performances. Includes practical application and special projects. Special course fees may apply.

Theatre    338

3 (crs.)

Improvisational Acting

Improvisational Strategies for creating theatrical performance pieces will be explored. These will be a focus on a specific topic each time the class is offered. In addition to improvisational techniques based on Spolin and Sills, a research component will be the basis for a completed script and performance piece. Prerequisites: THEATRE 205 or 308 or instructor consent.

Theatre    340

3 (crs.)

American Musical Theatre

A study of the historical development of American musical theatre, and an analysis of its dramatic forms: musical comedy, operetta, and music drama.

Theatre    346

3 (crs.)

Props for the Theatre

The course is intended to provide a foundation in the process of organizing, procuring, and constructing properties for theatrical productions.  Topics covered will include analyzing a script to develop a props list, strategies and sources to acquire props, and especially skills needed to shop-build props using a variety of techniques.  The class consists of lectures, demonstrations, and hands-on instruction in the scene shop.  Students will build various props as in-class projects and for actual theatre productions. Special course fees may apply.

Theatre    351

3 (crs.)

Costume Construction for Theatre and Film

Study of basic construction techniques used in the creation of costumes and accessories for stage, film and television. Course will include the construction of a realized costume for the stage, and hat making techniques. Special course fees may apply.

Theatre    355

3 (crs.)

Movement for the Actor

This course will focus on movement and the actor’s use of body and mind to create character and achieve a higher level of expressiveness in the art of Theatre. This course will center on training the actor to strengthen and free the body, enliven the imagination, and enable the actor to create a characters’ physical life. This course will explore the physiology of the body and how it responds to the emotional self and the psychological aspects of character. The course is based on the work of several experts; they include Rudolph Laban, Twyla Tharp, Jerry Grotowski, Moshe Feldenkrais and Alvin Ailey. This class will help the student understand their use of space and rhythm as it relates to the body and the character. Prerequisite: THEATRE 205 or 308.

Theatre    360

3 (crs.)

History of the American Theatre

The study of theatre in America from the 18th Century to the present; the development of native playwrights, actors, and critics, and the dramaturgy of representative plays.

Theatre    362

1 (crs.)

Theatre Participation – Technical Production III

Participation in technical aspects of scenery, lighting, sound, properties, or costumes for Theatre sponsored productions.

Theatre    363

1 (crs.)

Theatre Participation – Acting or Directing II

Participation as actor in Theatre sponsored productions (auditions required) or participation as director (application required the previous Spring term) for Theatre sponsored production.

Theatre    367

3 (crs.)

Fundamentals of Play Directing

A study and application of the principles and techniques of directing: Composition, level, plane, tempo, plot development, casting, play selection. Prerequisite: THEATRE 102, and 205 or 308 or instructor consent.

Theatre    369

3 (crs.)

Stagecraft

The principles, procedures and practices of technical theatre production. Special course fees may apply.

Theatre    371

3 (crs.)

Theatre Design I: Process

This course will focus on the further development of the designer’s skills of visual communication, and the process of theatre Design. The course will introduce color theory, rendering techniques, computer assisted drafting, and model making for Theatre. Prerequisite: THEATRE 102 and 203. Special course fees may apply.

Theatre    372

3 (crs.)

Theatre Design II: Concept and Collaboration

This course will introduce the conceptual approach to design, and the collaborative process in Theatre. Collaborative design teams will explore the development of concept and process through a variety of genres such as Musical Theatre, Shakespeare, and Absurdist Theatre. Prerequisite: THEATRE 371. Special course fees may apply.

Theatre    373

3 (crs.)

Lighting and Sound for the Stage

Introduction to the techniques and technical aspects of lighting and sound for stage production. Students will work with contemporary concepts and practices in lighting and sound design for theatrical production. Special course fees may apply.

Theatre    374

3 (crs.)

Script Writing for the Stage I

Introduces students to both concept and practice of Playwriting for a theatrical environment.  Students are expected to write a one-act play to be read in class.

Theatre    375

3 (crs.)

Script Writing for the Stage II

This course is a continuation of study and builds on the knowledge and experience gained in Script Writing for the Stage I. Students are expected to write a full-length play to be read in class. Prerequisites: THEATRE 374.

Theatre    376

3 (crs.)

Painting & Dyeing for the Theatre

This course is designed to introduce students interested in stage production to the techniques and practices of painting scenery and dyeing fabric for Theatrical, TV and Film productions.  This course requires hands-on exposure to different products and materials in a safe environment. Special course fees may apply.

Theatre    377

3 (crs.)

History of Contemporary Theatre

A study of the historical development of Contemporary Theatre from the late 19th century to present day, its use of changing techniques and its response to issues of the day.

Theatre    378

3 (crs.)

Stage Combat

This course will introduce students to the wide range of fighting styles, armed and unarmed combat for stage and film with the utmost attention to safety.  In addition it will explore concentration and relaxation skills as well as the acting, directing and choreography aspect of stage combat. Prerequisites: THEATRE 205 or 308 or instructor consent.

Theatre    389

3 (crs.)

Creative Drama

Study of the creative processes by which children, under the guidance of an adult leader, are engaged in an improvised, non-exhibitional form of drama. 389/589

Theatre    402

3 (crs.)

Senior Project

Extended project to demonstrate proficiency in an area of theatre; acting, directing, design, history and criticism. Student will demonstrate proficiency in achievement of program goals and objectives as set down in the Theatre Assessment Plan. Prerequisite: Senior status. Special course fees may apply.

Theatre    403

3 (crs.)

Teaching Theatre Methods and Cocurricular Activities

The goals, materials and methods of teaching theatre to middle and high school students.

Theatre    404

3 (crs.)

Elizabethan Theatre History

Study of the theatrical conditions under which Elizabethan drama developed including physical playhouse, staging practices, acting company organization. Prerequisite: THEATRE 204 or instructor consent.

Theatre    409

3 (crs.)

Acting Studio III: Characterization

Third course in the acting studio sequence. Development of characterization with emphasis on scene work in contemporary realism. Vocal work focuses on the improvement of the actor’s articulation of speech sounds. Prerequisite: THEATRE 309.

Theatre    410

4 (crs.)

Acting Studio IV: Acting Shakespeare

Fourth course in the acting studio sequence. Study of acting and vocal techniques for performing the plays of Shakespeare. Prerequisite: THEATRE 409.

Theatre    446

1 – 3 (crs.)

Independent Study

See Independent Study under course and Academic Advisement Policies information for general course description, general prerequisites, and proper contract form requirements. Special course fees may apply.

Theatre    452

3 (crs.)

Advanced Costume Construction

Study of pattern drafting methods and advanced construction techniques used in the creation of historical or non-western costumes, and accessories.  Prerequisites: THEATRE 351 or instructor consent. Special course fees may apply.

Theatre    460

1 (crs.)

Theatre Participation – Publicity and Management III

Participation in house management, stage management and publicity for program sponsored production. Prerequisite: THEATRE 264 or instructor consent.

Theatre    462

1 (crs.)

Theatre Participation-Acting or Directing III

Participation as actor in Theatre sponsored productions (auditions required) or participation as director (application required the previous Spring term) for Theatre sponsored production.

Theatre    463

1 – 3 (crs.)

Theatre Production Seminar

Focus on specialized problems in directing, design, technical theatre and stage management. May be repeated four times for up to 12 credits provided the topic varies. Special course fees may apply. 463/663

Theatre    464

3 (crs.)

Performance Seminar

The focus of this course will be on skills covered by specialized performance related topics. Newly offered performance classes and performance classes that are offered periodically are covered under this course number. This course gives students the flexibility to devise an individualized plan of study within the performance emphasis.

Theatre    465

3 (crs.)

Children’s Theatre

A study of the history, rationale, and special problems of theatre for youth, K-12. Emphasis upon play selection, production techniques, acting for young audiences using adult and child actors, and the new participation drama.

Theatre    469

3 (crs.)

Advanced Directing

Advanced study of representational and presentational forms, new directing concepts, and practical applications of directing principles in period and contemporary dramas including one major production project. Prerequisite: THEATRE 367 or instructor consent.

Theatre    473

3 (crs.)

Production Design for the Camera

This course focuses on design theory and techniques related to the study of production design for film and television. Prerequisite: THEATRE 371. Special course fees may apply.