A Thr 129 Performance Aerobics (2)
An introduction to aerobic exercise that
strengthens and tones muscles, increases
muscle-joint flexibility and
cardiorespiratory endurance. Emphasis is on
body awareness, alignment, fluidity of
movement, projection and performance energy.
No previous experience necessary. S/U graded.
A Thr 130 Technical Elements of Theatre (3)
An introduction to theatrical production,
including the examination of theatre
architecture, scenery, lighting, costumes,
sound, properties, and production
organization. May not be offered during 1999-2000.
A Thr 135 Introduction to Technical Theatre (4)
Examination of the elements of technical
theatre, including function and coordination
of theatre architecture, scenery, lighting,
costume and props. Three hours of lecture,
plus assigned laboratory sessions.
A Thr 140 Fundamentals of Acting (3)
Introduction to the art and craft of acting.
Exercises in relaxation, concentration and
imaging. Memorized scenes and monologues.
Course is limited to freshmen and sophomores.
S/U graded.
A Thr 161 Folk Dance (1)
An introduction to International Folk Dance.
Dances from many diverse countries and
cultures will be taught and discussed. The
course will prepare the student to join
recreational folk dance groups and to
participate in ethnic festivals. S/U graded.
A Thr 162 Introduction to Modern Dance (3)
An exploration of the fundamentals of modern
dance technique: body alignment,
coordination, strength and flexibility,
locomotion performed in rhythmic patterns
with an emphasis on anatomically efficient
movement and energy projection. An
investigation of the elements of movement:
space, time and energy and the creative and
expressive aspects of dance through
improvisation, problem solving, composition
and performance. The study of the development
of modern dance as an art form. This course
will include readings in dance theory and
history, video and live concert viewing,
movement studies, journals, and a final piece
for public viewing. No previous experience
necessary.
A Thr 164 Beginning Jazz Dance (3)
An exploration of the basic principles of
jazz dance technique including body
isolations, syncopation and combinations of
basic jazz steps. Readings in the history of
jazz dance, video and live concert viewing
will place jazz dance in a historical context
and create an appreciation of it as an art
form. Movement studies, journals and a final
piece for public performance are required.
S/U graded.
A Thr 201 Production and Performance Lab (1)
Application of theatre study to the
challenges of theatre practice through
semester-long participation in the
production-related activities of the
Department of Theatre. Four or five semesters
required of theatre majors; may be repeated
for credit up to six times. Prerequisite(s):
permission of instructor. S/U graded.
A Thr 210Z Play Analysis (3)
General Education: WI
Study of approaches to the analysis of
dramatic literature. Readings in dramatic
literature, criticism, theory. Written
practice in analyzing plays and other
assigned readings.
A Thr 221L Development of Theatre and Drama I (3)
General Education: CHP & HA
A survey of dramatic literature and
theatrical art in ancient Greece and Rome,
Asia and Medieval Europe. This course
includes introductory material to provide a
foundation for further study in dramatic
literature and theatre history.
A Thr 222L Development of Theatre and Drama II (3)
General Education: CHP & HA
A survey of dramatic literature and
theatrical art from the Renaissance to the
late 19th century. Prerequisite(s): A Thr
221L.
A Thr 225L American Theatre History (3)
General Education: CHP & HA
Development of theatre and drama in the
United States from its 17th-century
beginnings to the present.
A Thr 228 Voices of Diversity in Contemporary American Theatre and Drama (3)
General Education: HD
Concentration on works which are often
omitted from the theatrical canon because of
their divergent aesthetic, ideological or
sociological values. Selections will include,
but not be limited to, dramas and creative
contributions by African-Americans, Latinas
and Latinos, Gays and Lesbians, and Native
Americans.
A Thr 230L Great Drama on Film and Video (3)
General Education: HA
A study of major works of drama through the
ages with emphasis on their values as works
of dramatic literature as well as crucial raw
material for complex embodiment in theatre
and film performance.
A Thr 235L Fundamentals of Theatrical Design (3)
General Education: HA
Exploration of the elements of design and
principles of composition, especially as they
relate to the visual aspects of theatre.
Lectures will emphasize scenic and costume
design, with projects, exercises and
classroom discussions aimed at developing
visual awareness and imagination.
A Thr 240 Acting I (3)
Development of the actor's instrument: voice,
body and imagination. Topics include
vocabulary, analysis for action, discipline,
artistic focus, and rehearsal skills.
Exercises include improvisations and scripted
performance. The purpose of this course is to
encourage students to take artistic risks and
build confidence in their ability to perform.
Prerequisite(s): permission of instructor.
A Thr 242 Voice l (3)
Study of voice production employing exercises
in relaxation, breathing, resonation, and the
discovery of the individual's optimum voice.
Exercises in projection in a variety of
performance spaces. Prerequisite(s):
permission of instructor.
A Thr 244 Movement I (3)
A movement class focusing on alignment,
centering and preparing the body for work on
the stage. Employs techniques from the
Alexander, Feldenkrais, and Suzuki training
systems. Prerequisite(s): permission of
instructor.
A Thr 250 Stage Makeup (1)
Exploration of the art and technique of
makeup design. Includes exercises in the
technique of modeling the planes of the face.
Special emphasis on understanding and
applying the principles of chiaroscuro.
A Thr 260 Theatrical Drafting (3)
Study and practice of the techniques used in
theatrical drafting including orthographic
projections, isometrics, mechanical
perspective and freehand drawing, which are
essential tools of communication for further
study in the technical and design areas.
A Thr 263 Decorative Arts in Relation to Scenic Design (3)
A survey of period styles of furniture,
architectural ornament, and interior
architecture and decoration. Prerequisite(s):
permission of instructor. May not be offered
during 1999-2000.
A Thr 270 Technical Theatre Practice (3)
Introduction to the materials and techniques
used in the construction and handling of
theatrical scenery and lighting. Topics
include equipment, rigging, mechanical
devices, basic electricity, and translation
of theatrical drafting. Emphasis on
application within the theatrical
environment.
A Thr 280 Costume Technology (3)
Introduction to the use of materials and
techniques in the preparation and
construction of theatrical costumes. Topics
include patterning, draping, basic theatrical
sewing, budgeting, dyeing, and fabrics.
Emphasis on application within the theatrical
environment.
A Thr 300 Plays in Process (3)
This course examines the arc of the dramatic
event from its genesis in the mind of the
playwright to its presentation before an
audience. Particular attention is paid to
source material and its relationship to the
development of the script. The contributions
of interpreters such as dramaturg, director,
designers and actors are also explored.
Students are exposed, as directly as
possible, to aspects of the creative process
that makes theatre happen.
A Thr 310 Reader's Theatre (3)
Study and practice in the performance
techniques and materials appropriate to
reader's theatre. Particular attention to the
development of vocal expressiveness by the
individual performer as well as readers in
concert. May not be offered during 1999-2000.
A Thr 315 (= A Mus 315) Arts Management (3)
An overview of the conceptual and practical
management structures and systems in
professional, not-for-profit arts and
cultural organizations. The course focuses on
areas of prime importance to the arts
manager: organizational structure, planning,
board/staff leadership, programming and
budgeting. Term project required. Only one of
A Thr 315 and A Mus 315 may be taken for
credit. Prerequisite(s): permission of
instructor.
A Thr 320 Performance Art in America (3)
Performance art has proven to be a radical
method of establishing cultural and gender
identity. This course examines the origins of
the form in avant garde European movements of
the early twentieth century and its vigorous
expression in contemporary America. Course
texts include performance scripts,
performance videos and, where possible, live
performance art. As the content of
performance art is often controversial and
sometimes offensive, students in the course
will consider issues such as censorship,
civil discourse, and the methodology of
criticizing controversial material.
A Thr 322 Development of Theatre and Drama III (3)
A survey of dramatic literature and
theatrical art from the end of the 19th
century to World War II. A Thr 322Z is the
writing intensive version of A Thr 322; only
one may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s):
A Thr 221L.
A Thr 322Z Development of Theatre and Drama III (3)
General Education: WI
The writing intensive version of A Thr 322;
only one may be taken for credit.
Prerequisite(s): A Thr 221L.
A Thr 340 Acting II (3)
Developing a role through script analysis.
The course focuses on learning and applying a
practical method of analyzing a script for
character action. Exercises include scene
work, monologue preparation, and audition
technique. Prerequisite(s): A Thr 240 and
permission of instructor.
A Thr 341 Acting III (3)
Developing and opening up the student actor's
instrument through performing Shakespearean
scenes. Exploration of acting technique
beyond the psycho-logical realism of
contemporary theatre practice. Exploration of
action and character defined by language.
Physical and vocal exercises in addition to
scene work and script analysis employing
scansion technique. Prerequisite(s): A Thr
340, 242 or 244, and permission of
instructor.
A Thr 343 Voice II (3)
Study of speech and articulation. Exercises
emphasize gaining proficiency in standard
stage English and in working with classical
texts. Prerequisite(s): A Thr 242 and
permission of instructor. May not be offered
during 1999-2000.
A Thr 345 Movement II (3)
Development of physical characterization
through movement. Employs techniques such as
Laban, Essentics, and animal mask. Exercises
in character creation through script
analysis. Prerequisite(s): A Thr 244 and
permission of instructor. May not be offered
during 1999-2000.
A Thr 350 Directing I (3)
An exploration of the art and craft of
directing for the theatre. Includes methods
of approaching the text, organizing the
rehearsal process and composing the
production. Prerequisite(s): A Thr 221L, 235L
and 240, and permission of instructor.
A Thr 351 Directing II (3)
A continuation of study begun in A Thr 350
for advanced students. Prerequisite(s): A Thr
350 and permission of instructor.
A Thr 359 (= A Rus 359 & 359Z) Russian Drama in English Translation (3)
Surveys major trends in Russian drama and
analyzes major works from the comedies of
Fonvizin and Griboedov satirizing the Russian
social scene to the twilight melancholy of
Chekhov and the theatre of 20th-century
Soviet Russia. Conducted in English. Offered
in alternate years. Only one of A Thr 359,
A Rus 359 & 359Z may be taken for credit.
Prerequisite(s): A Rus 251L or junior or
senior class standing, or permission of
instructor. May not be offered during 1999-
2000.
A Thr 360 Theatre Production Technology (3)
The theories and practices of technical
production, and the application of graphics
techniques to the communication of ideas.
Topics include technical organization and
planning, budgeting, theatre architecture,
principles of theatre technology, drafting,
rigging and model building. Prerequisite(s):
A Thr 135 or 130, and 260.
A Thr 365 Scene Design (3)
The applications of the principles of design
to scenery for the theatre. Focus on the
analysis of the script in visual terms and
the translation of this into the design for a
setting. Model-making, drawing and rendering
techniques will be explored as methods of
communicating design ideas. Prerequisite(s):
A Thr 235L and 360.
A Thr 370 Stage Lighting Technology (3)
Introduction to stage lighting technology,
and to principles relating to the safe
operation of rigging and maintenance. Topics
include basic optics, electricity, equipment,
the physics of light and interpretation of
lighting plans and symbols. Prerequisite(s):
A Thr 135 or 130.
A Thr 371 Theatre and Sound (3)
Physical acoustics and electronic sound
reproduction as applied to theatrical
production. Topics include the acoustic
properties of auditoria, electronic sound
recording and reproduction, and electronic
sound reinforcement. Students must have a
prior background in elementary physics and
mathematics through advanced algebra
(preferably calculus). Prerequisite(s): A Thr
135 or 130 and permission of instructor.
A Thr 375 Lighting Design (3)
The study of light as a design element in
theatrical production. Topics include script
analysis in terms of lighting, the phenomena
of color as applied to lighting, the various
methods available for lighting the stage,
advanced consideration of lighting control
systems and their effect on design, and the
preparation of lighting plots.
Prerequisite(s): A Thr 260 and 370.
A Thr 380L History of Costume (3)
General Education: HA
Survey of Western clothing history, fashion
and style from primitive times to the 20th
century.
A Thr 385 Costume Design (3)
The theory and application of the principles
of theatrical costume design. Practice in
developing necessary graphic skills through
study of drawing and rendering techniques.
Prerequisite(s): A Thr 235L and 380L.
A Thr 386 Costume Crafts and Properties (3)
Intensive study of the techniques, materials,
and tools used in the more specialized areas
of theatrical costuming such as armor, hats,
and jewelry. Prerequisite(s): A Thr 130 or
135.
A Thr 390 Internship with New York State Theatre Institute (3-15)
Individually arranged apprenticeship
employing experiences in the Theatre's
current schedule of productions and school
residencies. Emphasis on interdisciplinary
learning, theatre production, education, and
aesthetic, technical, and business aspects of
the arts. Internships are open only to
qualified juniors and seniors who have an
overall grade point average of 2.50 or
higher. Prerequisite(s): permission of
instructor. S/U graded.
A Thr 397 Independent Study in Theatre (2-4)
Directed reading and conferences on selected
topics. A student may take the course once as
strictly research and once as a production-
related study, but not repeat one or the
other. Prerequisite(s): junior or senior
class standing, and permission of instructor
and department chair.
A Thr 406Z (= A Eng 404) Playwriting (3)
General Education: WI
Workshop dealing with the craft of
playwriting. Focuses on preparing a
stageworthy script; some of these scripts may
be considered for production. Limited
enrollment. Only one of A Thr 406Z & A Eng
404 may be taken for credit. A Thr 406Z may
be repeated once for credit. Prerequisite(s):
A Thr 322Z or 322 or equivalent, and
permission of instructor based on submission
of written work.
A Thr 430 Seminar in Contemporary Theatre (3)
A survey of dramatic literature and
theatrical art from World War II to the
present. Prerequisite(s): A Thr 322 or 322Z.
May not be offered during 1999-2000. May not
be offered during 1999-2000.
A Thr 440 Acting IV (3)
Development of the student actor's ability to
portray characters in studies and styles of
acting. Exercises in identifying rules of
social behavior, tastes, mores, self image,
etc. characteristic of a playwright's world
and applying this knowledge to the creation
of a character. Exercises in rehearsal
methods explore the actor's need to consider
audience response in creating the
performance. Prerequisite(s): A Thr 341 and
permission of instructor.
A Thr 442 Voice III (3)
A voice class stressing voice and speech as
embodiments of textual styles.
Prerequisite(s): A Thr 343 and permission of
instructor. May not be offered during 1999-
2000.
A Thr 444 Movement III (3)
Instruction in stage combat. Study of
personal combat and types of weapons employed
in combat. Exercises in basic safety measures
and combat movement with a variety of
weapons. Students will be examined in a
minimum standard repertoire of combat moves
upon completion of the course. Optional
certification by the Society of American
Fight Directors will be available to some
students with the instructor's
recommendation. Prerequisite(s): A Thr 244
and permission of instructor. May not be
offered during 1999-2000.
A Thr 446 Special Studies in Voice (1-3)
Intensive work in a particular aspect of
vocal production; e.g., musical theatre,
dialects, oral interpretation. May be
repeated up to a total of 6 credits.
Prerequisite(s): A Thr 242 and permission of
instructor.
A Thr 447 Special Studies in Movement (1-3)
Intensive work in a particular aspect of
stage movement; e.g., stage combat, period
movement, mime. May be repeated up to a total
of 6 credits. Prerequisite(s): A Thr 244 and
permission of instructor.
A Thr 448 Special Studies in Design and Technical Production (1-3)
Intensive work in a particular aspect of
design or technical production; e.g., scene
painting, stage properties, computerized
lighting systems, special effects. May be
repeated for a total of 6 credits.
Prerequisite(s): junior or senior class
standing, and permission of instructor. May
not be offered during 1999-2000.
A Thr 449 Topics in Acting (3)
Special topics and exercises selected to
address particular needs and interests of
advanced students. This course may be
repeated once when topic varies.
Prerequisite(s): A Thr 440 or permission of
instructor.
A Thr 455 Seminar in Theatre History (3)
Considers a particular research topic in
theatre history. May be repeated once when
content varies. Prerequisite(s): Thr 322 or
322Z, junior or senior class standing, and
permission of instructor.
A Thr 456 Seminar in Dramatic Literature (3)
Examines a particular genre, movement, period
or author. Prerequisite(s): A Thr 322 or
322Z, junior or senior class standing, and
permission of instructor. May be repeated
once when content varies.
A Thr 465 Technical Design and Production Planning (3)
The application of theatre technology to
problem solving in a theatrical organization.
Advanced study of equipment, methods,
materials and the principles governing their
use. Technical innovation, planning,
structural design, and advanced drafting
considered as functions of the technical
director/production manager. Prerequisite(s):
A Thr 360.
A Thr 470 Stage Management (3)
Investigation of the theories and techniques
of stage management, including a thorough
examination of the varied functions and
duties performed by stage managers in
professional, educational, commercial, and
community theatres. Prerequisite(s): A Thr
135 or 130, junior or senior class standing,
and permission of instructor.
A Thr 480 Drama in Production (2-3)
Specific projects under the direction of an
appropriate faculty member in one or more
phases of production related to current
Theatre Department activity; may include
supervised research in appropriate critical
or historical background and theory. May be
repeated once with a different primary
production emphasis. Prerequisite(s): junior
or senior class standing, and permission of
instructor.
A Thr 490 Internship (3-12)
Apprenticeship program with professional
theatrical organizations for qualified
seniors. Internships are open only to
qualified juniors and seniors who have an
overall grade point average of 2.50 or
higher. Prerequisite(s): senior class
standing and permission of department chair.
S/U graded.
