Courses in Theatre
A THR 101 Production Practicum I (1)
Laboratory participation in production crew activities on the departmental shows. Examples of these basic crew assignments are scenery, publicity, paint, props, electrics, costumes, etc. Assignments are coordinated by the Production Manager each semester. A total of 6 credits from A THR 101, A THR 102, A THR 201, A THR 202, A THR 301, and A THR 302 are required of Theatre majors. Only 3 credits of A THR 102, A THR 202, and A THR 302 may be applied toward the major. Repeatable up to 6 credits. A maximum total of 12 credits from A THR 101, A THR 102, A THR 201, A THR 202, A THR 301, and A THR 302 may be applied toward graduation. Prerequisite(s): permission of instructor.
A THR 102 Production Practicum I A (1)
Laboratory participation as an actor in the rehearsal and performance of a departmental show. Enrollment is contingent on a successful audition. Assignments are coordinated by the Director of Performance each semester. A total of 6 credits from A THR 101, A THR 102, A THR 201, A THR 202, A THR 301, and A THR 302 are required of Theatre majors. Only 3 credits of A THR 102, 202, and A THR 302 may be applied toward the major. Repeatable up to 6 credits. A maximum total of 12 credits from A THR 101, A THR 102, A THR 201, A THR 202, A THR 301, and A THR 302 may be applied toward graduation. Prerequisite(s): permission of instructor.
A THR 107/107Z Introduction to Dramatic Art (3)
The components of dramatic art; attention to the contributions of acting, script, makeup, scenery, lighting, sound, music and architecture to the theatre as a unified creative expression. Only one version of A THR 107 may be taken for credit.
A THR 120 Understanding Design for the Performing Arts (3)
An introduction to the creative and historical processes, principles, and practices of design for the performing arts. Using theatre as the primary form, this course provides an overview of scenery, lighting, costuming, sound, and special effects, examining how each plays a role in defining resolutions to the major issues of live performance design.
A THR 121 Play Analysis (3)
Study and practice of analytical tools and critical approaches that help students appreciate plays as informed readers and spectators of theatrical works. Examination of methods of script analysis from the perspective of theatre practitioners.
T THR 121 Play Analysis (3)
T THR 121 is the Honors College version of A THR 121; only one version may be taken for credit.
A THR 128 Introduction to World Dance (3)
Survey of dance that introduces students to the aesthetics, appreciation and history of dance. This course will explore dance from a cross-cultural/global perspective, examining various purposes and approaches for dancing, including an analysis of movement styles and their relationship to the culture, time and place that gives rise to each dance form. Class time will be divided between: introductory lecture by the instructor, watching a video of dance on the theme for the day, discussion of that theme informed by the video and of that day’s required reading. May also involve a movement exploration/studio component. Attendance at a live performance will be an aspect of the course, as will a small group oral presentation. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
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 138 Yoga (3)
The emphasis of this course will be on the physical aspect of yoga practice: asana practice. Asana practice of yoga seeks to integrate mind and body through the use of breath and physical postures. Benefits include: increased concentration and focus, greater flexibility and strength, improved posture, coordination and increased energy and deep relaxation. There will be an introduction to various pranayama (breathing) techniques, along with some chanting and meditation practice. Some experiential anatomy will be taught and applied to our practice of the yoga postures. Attendance at University visual arts and performance events will also be part of the course work. An aspect of our yoga practice is on challenging preconceptions of who we are, and evolving as human beings. Art can also do this. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
A THR 201 Production Practicum II (2)
Laboratory participation in production crew activities on the departmental shows. Examples of these intermediate level crew assignments are Run Crew, Wardrobe Crew, Makeup Crew, Light Board Operator, Sound Board Operator, etc. Assignments are coordinated by the Production Manager each semester. A total of 6 credits from A THR 101, A THR 102, A THR 201, A THR 202, A THR 301, and A THR 302 are required of Theatre majors. Only 3 credits of A THR 102, A THR 202, and A THR 302 may be applied toward the major. Repeatable up to 6 credits. A maximum total of 12 credits from A THR 101, A THR 102, A THR 201, A THR 202, A THR 301, and A THR 302 may be applied toward graduation. Prerequisite(s): permission of instructor.
A THR 202 Production Practicum II A (2)
Laboratory participation as an actor in the rehearsal and performance of a departmental show. Enrollment is contingent on a successful audition. Assignments are coordinated by the Director of Performance each semester. A total of 6 credits from A THR 101, A THR 102, A THR 201, A THR 202, A THR 301, and A THR 302 are required of Theatre majors. Only 3 credits of A THR 102, A THR 202, and A THR 302 may be applied toward the major. Repeatable up to 6 credits. A maximum total of 12 credits from A THR 101, A THR 102, A THR 201, A THR 202, A THR 301, and A THR 302 may be applied toward graduation. Prerequisite(s): permission of instructor.
A THR 220 Contemporary Theatre (3)
This is a survey course outlining the most significant trends and developments in contemporary western drama, theatre, and theory from the late 20th century to today. Readings change to keep the course abreast of current developments. The purpose of the class is to gain both an understanding and an experience of contemporary drama and performance via readings and by viewing and analyzing filmed and live productions. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
A THR 221 History of Theatre and Drama from the Antiquity to the Renaissance (3)
This is a survey of dramatic literature and theatrical art in ancient Greece and Rome, Asia, and Medieval and Renaissance/Neoclassical Europe, focusing on the most significant developments in theatre architecture, stagecraft and scene design, acting styles and techniques, dramatic structure and genres, audience and patronage. In addition, the class also studies the accomplishments of great theatre artists (architects, designers, actors, directors, etc.) and dramatists and discusses their contributions in a social-historical context that extends beyond the theatre. The course includes introductory material to provide a foundation for further study in dramatic literature and theatre history. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
A THR 222 History of Theatre and Drama from the English Restoration to the 1970s (3)
A survey of the dramatic literature and theatrical art of Europe and the United States from the English Restoration to the 1970s. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
A THR 223 Topics in Theatre History (1-3)
Special topics selected to address particular needs and interest of intermediate studies. This course may be repeated once when content varies. Prerequisite(s): permission of instructor. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
A THR 224 Contemporary Issues in Modern Drama (3)
Exploration of selected themes and ideas represented in plays chosen from the modern repertory. Political, social, economic, and/or ethical issues are examined as dramatists are representing them in today’s plays. Prospective students should consult the instructor for current course information and topics. May be repeated once for credit when content varies. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
A THR 225 American Theatre History (3)
Development of theatre and drama in the United States from its 17th century beginnings to the present. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
A THR 228 Voices of Diversity in Contemporary American Theatre and Drama (3)
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. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
A THR 230 Great Drama on Film and Video (3)
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. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
A THR 235 Fundamentals of Theatrical Design (3)
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. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
T THR 235 Fundamentals of Theatrical Design (3)
T THR 235 is the Honors College version of A THR 235; only one version may be taken for credit.
A THR 238 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 projection 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. May be repeated once for credit. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
A THR 239 Ballet (3)
An introduction to theory and techniques of classical ballet. The study of the development of ballet as an art form. This course will include readings in dance theory and history, video and live concert viewing and movement studies. No previous experience necessary. May be repeated once for credit. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
A THR 240Y Acting I (3)
Development of an actor’s instrument through the use of voice, body and imagination to create realistic behavior under given circumstances. Concepts taught include creative work habits, ensemble development, use of self, acting as interacting, rehearsal skills and action analysis. Exercises include improvisation and scripted. This course does not require previous acting experience and encourages students to take artistic risks as a first step in the department’s acting sequence. Open to freshmen and sophomores only.
A THR 248 Political Text in Performance (3)
The analysis of performance texts as they are interpreted in contemporary production. Students engage in close readings of play texts and criticism and then examine the political ramifications by acting in works of playwrights who deal with issues like myth, identity, gender and ownership. The students also explore through the Discipline of Acting with an emphasis on mastering physical relaxation. This course does not require previous acting experience. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
A THR 249 Topics in Acting (1-3)
Special topics and exercises selected to address particular needs and interest of intermediate students. The course may be repeated once when topic varies. Prerequisite(s): permission of instructor. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
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. Repeatable up to 3 credits. S/U graded. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
A THR 257 Topics in Dramatic Literature (1-3)
Special topics selected to address particular needs and interests of intermediate students. This course may be repeated once when topic varies. Prerequisite(s): permission of instructor. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
A THR 261 Folk Dance (1)
An introduction to International Folk Dance. Dances from many 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 264 Studio Skills (3)
A practical approach to applying graphic techniques to the theatrical design process. The class will employ the use of rendering techniques, computer manipulation (Photoshop), and painting as a way to communicate visually and explore theatrical ideas. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
A THR 265 Stage Properties (3)
An introduction to various types of standard stage properties, the class focuses on prop fabrication techniques, as well as the practices of the Prop Master. Projects will explore materials and techniques typically used in theatre, and methods used in prop design and acquisition. Prerequisite(s): A THR 135 or permission of instructor. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
A THR 266 Scene Painting (3)
Students will be exposed to various types of standard scene painting techniques through a series of projects. These projects will teach students about the tools, materials, and painting methods used by scenic artists in professional theatre. Prerequisite(s): A THR 135 or permission of instructor. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
A THR 268 Topics in Design and Technology (1-3)
Special topics and projects selected to address particular needs and interest of intermediate students. This course may be repeated once when topic varies. Prerequisite(s): permission of instructor. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
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 301 Production Practicum III (3)
Laboratory participation in production crew activities on the departmental shows. Examples of these advanced crew assignments include Assistant Lighting Designer, Assistant Costume Designer, Assistant Director, State Manager, Master Electrician, Sound Engineer, Wardrobe Supervisor. Assignments are coordinated by the Production Manager each semester. A total of 6 credits from A THR 101, A THR 102, A THR 201, A THR 202, A THR 301, and A THR 302 are required of Theatre majors. Only 3 credits of A THR 102, A THR 202, and A THR 302 may be applied toward the major. May be repeated once for credit. A maximum total of 12 credits from A THR 101, A THR 102, A THR 201, A THR 202, A THR 301, and A THR 302 may be applied toward graduation. Prerequisite(s): permission of instructor.
A THR 302 Production Practicum III A (3)
Laboratory participation as an actor in the rehearsal and performance of a departmental show. Enrollment is contingent on a successful audition. Assignments are coordinated by the Director of Performance each semester. A total of 6 credits from A THR 101, A THR 102, A THR 201, A THR 202, A THR 301, and A THR 302 are required of Theatre majors. Only 3 credits of A THR 102, A THR 202, and A THR 302 may be applied toward the major. May be repeated once for credit. A maximum total of 12 credits from A THR 101, A THR 102, A THR 201, A THR 202, A THR 301, and A THR 302 may be applied toward graduation. Prerequisite(s): permission of instructor.
A THR 303Z Playwriting I (3)
Workshop dealing with the craft of playwriting. Focuses on preparing stage worthy one-act plays; some of these scripts may be considered for presentation in the Plays In Process Festival of new student plays. Limited enrollment. No previous playwriting experience is required. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
A THR 304Z Screenwriting I (3)
This workshop course introduces students to the elements of screenwriting; story, plot, conflict, theme, dialogue, structure and characterization. Students learn to create screenplays varying in length according to the nature of the story through exercises which develop familiarity with these screenwriting tools and in-class presentation of their ongoing work. Limited enrollment. No previous screenwriting experience is required. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
A THR 314 Stage Management (3)
Investigation into 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 permission of instructor.
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 version of A THR 315 may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): permission of instructor.
A THR 319/319Z Studies in Theatre History (3)
Special topics selected to address particular needs and interest of advanced students. Individual syllabi vary depending on the specific subject matter covered in the course. ATHR 319Z is the writing intensive version of A THR 319. This course may be repeated once when topic varies. Prerequisite(s): A THR 221, A THR 222, or permission of instructor. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
A THR 326 Studies in Shakespeare (3)
Special topics selected to address particular needs and interests of intermediate students. A student may only receive credit for A ENG 346 and/or A THR 326 twice, and only if the content varies. Prerequisite(s): permission of instructor. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
A THR 327 (= A RUS 359) 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 327, A RUS 359 & 359Z may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): A RUS 251, or junior or senior class standing, or permission of instructor.
A THR 335 Theatrical Drafting (3)
Study and practice of the professional techniques used in theatrical drafting. Topics will include geometry, conventions and symbols, dimensioning, scale, orthographics, pictorials, developments, and mechanical perspective, with attention to the development of fine motor skills and accuracy in hand drafting. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
A THR 336 Computer Drafting (3)
Computer-aided drafting for the theatre involving electronic manipulation of lines, drawings, and symbols to convey visual ideas in theatre applications. Prerequisite(s): A THR 335. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
A THR 339 Movement I (3)
A studio class intended to deepen the understanding of your own moving body through the study of kinesthetic anatomy and somatic movement principles to guide exploration of creative movement and improvisation. Movement exercises will be designed to increase somatic awareness (strengthen the body-mind connection), improve skeletal alignment, increase muscular flexibility and strength, improve coordination, as well as develop movement vocabulary and expand conceptual definitions of movement/dance/art. Coursework includes readings in experiential anatomy, improvisation and performance, journals, video and live concert viewing, movement studies and a final performance project. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
A THR 340Y Acting II (3)
Further development and exploration of the acting process, using the Sanford Meisner technique. Exercises include creating and rehearsing scenes and monologues drawn from the work of contemporary playwrights. Prerequisite(s): A THR 240.
A THR 341Y Acting III (3)
Approaches to the challenges of character. Action fundamentals developed in Acting II are combined with other methodologies to teach actors ways to play characters beyond their dispositional range. Particular emphasis is placed on character research, physical and vocal adjustments, and manipulation of the social mask. Scene work includes realistic plays outside the contemporary period and explores social behavior beyond the familiar. The goal of the course is to extend the actor’s flexibility in preparation to play a wider range of dramatic literature. Prerequisite(s): A THR 340 and permission of instructor. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
A THR 343Y Voice (3)
The study of voice production employing exercises in relaxation, breathing and resonation designed to liberate the individual’s optimum natural voice. Exercises include projection in a variety of performance spaces and some text presentation. Prerequisite(s): permission of instructor.
A THR 345 Movement II (3)
Deepening of skills and practices explored in Movement I. In this semester, greater emphasis will be on evolving creative work toward performance, including site-specific work in coordination with University “theme” years. Coursework includes readings in performance and improvisation, video and live concert viewing, movement studies and a final piece for public viewing. Prerequisite(s): A THR 339 and permission of instructor. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
A THR 349 Audition Techniques and “Business” of Show Business (3)
A professional acting studio focusing on the “business” of show business for actors. Focus will be on auditioning in theatre, as well as on camera. Guidelines for various audition formats, networking and career building will be explored and the building of an actor’s repertoire of audition material. The course culminates in a professional performance jury. Prerequisite(s): A THR 340 and permission of instructor. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
A THR 360 Scenic Technology (3)
Study of the theories and practices of scenic technology, and the application of drafting techniques to the communication of ideas. Topics include tools, materials, hardware, drafting processes, technical research and writing, and traditional construction and handling techniques. Prerequisite(s): A THR 135 and 335. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
A THR 361 History of Decorative Styles (3)
A survey of architecture, ornament, and period styles. The class explores the application of period research as it relates to choices made in Set Design for the Theatre. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
A THR 370 (= A PHY 370) Lighting Technology (3)
Introduction to the physical properties of light and the technology used in entertainment lighting systems. Topics include the physics of light, electricity, color, optics, photometric calculations, equipment, and the interpretation of drafting and related paperwork. Only one version may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): A THR 135 or permission of instructor.
A THR 371 Sound Technology (3)
A study of the tools and techniques of sound technology, including reinforcement and reproduction as applied to theatrical production. Topics include the various types of equipment required to assemble and troubleshoot a complete sound system in a theatrical environment. Prerequisite(s): A THR 135 or permission of instructor. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
A THR 380 History of Clothing Styles (3)
An exploration of the history of western dress emphasizing the socioeconomic, political, and moral environment that produced historic modes of dress. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
A THR 381 Costume Technology (3)
Introduction to materials and techniques employed in preparation and building theatrical costumes. Topics include patterning, basic theatrical sewing, fabric, and fabric modification. Emphasis on application for theatrical production. Prerequisite(s): A THR 135 or permission of instructor. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
A THR 386 Costume Crafts (3)
Intensive study of the techniques, materials, and tools used in the more specialized areas of theatrical costuming such as armor, hats, and jewelry. Emphasis on sculpting, casting, and fabric manipulation. Prerequisite(s): A THR 135. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
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 standing, and permission of instructor and department chair.
A THR 401 Production Practicum IV (3)
Laboratory participation in production crew activities on the departmental shows. Examples of these major crew assignments include Lighting Designer, Scene Designer, Costume Designer, Scenic Artist, Technical Director, Prop Master, etc. Assignments are coordinated by the Production Manager each semester. May be repeated once for credit. Prerequisite(s): junior or senior standing, and permission of instructor.
A THR 402 Production Practicum IV A (3)
Laboratory participation as an actor in the rehearsal and performance of a departmental show. Enrollment is contingent on a successful audition. Assignments are coordinated by the Director of Performance each semester. May be repeated once for credit. Prerequisite(s): junior or senior standing, and permission of instructor.
A THR 403Z Playwriting II (3)
An advanced workshop designed to develop full length plays; some of these scripts may be considered for presentation in the Plays In Process Festival of new student plays. Limited enrollment. Prerequisite(s): A THR 303Z or permission or instructor. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
A THR 404Z Screenwriting II (3)
An advanced workshop designed to develop full length screenplays. Limited enrollment. Prerequisite(s): A THR 304Z or permission of instructor. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
A THR 421 Dramaturgy (3)
Study and interpretation of plays, dramatic theory, and research methods with special emphasis on the artistry of translating the written script into a theatrical production. A THR 121, 221, and 222 or permission of instructor. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
A THR 423 Topics in Theatre History (1-3)
Special topics selected to address particular needs and interests of advanced students. This course may be repeated once when content varies. Prerequisite(s): permission of instructor. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
A THR 426 (= A ART 426 & A MUS 426) Music Composition in Electronic Media I (3)
An introduction to compositional and studio techniques for electronic music composition. Students will gain exposure to digital audio editing and sequencing, basic signal processing, and relevant musical structures. Projects will reflect a variety of aesthetic approaches and disciplines from experimental traditions, sound art, multimedia, and more popular forms. Only one version of A THR 426 may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): A MUS 100 or permission of instructor.
A THR 427 (= A ART 427 & A MUS 427) Music Composition in Electronic Media II (3)
This course is an advanced seminar in sound design, audio art, electronic musical composition, and related fields, with an emphasis on evaluation and discussion of creative studio work produced by students. A continuation of studies initiated in A THR/A MUS 426 with a focus on advanced techniques and aesthetics. Only one version of A THR 427 may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): A THR/A ART/A MUS 426, or permission of instructor.
A THR 428 (= A ART 428 & A MUS 428) Sound Design and Multimedia (3)
Theory and techniques of how sound and music are composed for use in multi-media fields, including Theatre, the World-Wide Web, installation art, CD-ROM, and video. Students will work on original projects in their respective disciplines. The focus of this course will vary. Only one version of A THR 428 may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): A MUS/A ART/A THR 426 or equivalent.
A THR 429 (= A ART 429 & A MUS 429) Seminar in Musical Improvisation II (3)
An introduction to the skills and aesthetics of musical improvisation across multiple musical genres. The course will span the needs and interests of students with both limited and extensive experience with improvisation. Individual and collective improvisational forms will be explored. This course may be repeated twice for credit. Prerequisite(s): A MUS 100 or permission of instructor.
A THR 432 (= A EAC 432; formerly A THR 323/A EAC 396) Readings in Chinese Drama (3)
After introducing the history and aesthetics of the Chinese theater, this course will concentrate on reading and discussing pieces of Yuan Zaju Drama, Ming Chuanqi Opera, Peking/Beijing Opera, and Chinese shadow plays. Knowledge of the Chinese language is not necessary. Only one version of A THR 432 may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): any 200-level course (other than language courses) from either the Department of East Asian Studies or the Theater Department, or permission of the instructor.
A THR 438 Choreography (3)
Study and practice of the creation and artistic patterning of movement into dance. Exercises are given to explore movement possibilities and structures based on kinesthetic responses. Students make regular in-class presentations of projects-in-progress and show the final project in an informal showing. Consideration of the expression of ideas through dance will be integral to students' development of the choreographic process. Students are expected to maintain a journal recording an outline of their choreographic projects and written exercises related to allocated compositional tasks. Prerequisite(s): A THR 238, 239, and 339, or permission of instructor. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
A THR 439 Acting Shakespeare (3)
An introduction to basic techniques applied to acting Shakespeare, including analysis of recurring poetic devices, rhetorical motifs and metrics. The goal is to teach actors to communicate the rich meanings of Shakespeare’s texts in powerful, spontaneous performances that combine techniques of realistic acting with bold theatricality. Course work includes historical exploration of Shakespeare’s practice, studying selected plays for their performance values and exercises in applying distinct aspects of verbal technique. Prerequisite(s): A THR 440 and/or permission of instructor. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
A THR 440Y Acting IV (3)
Approaches to acting in heightened language and physicality. This course teaches methods for moving beyond the conventions of naturalism and realism and teaches actors techniques for creating convincing performances in plays defined as “style” pieces. Particular emphasis is placed on extreme theatrical expression in voice and movement and on vividly animating bold drama with particular rules of performance. Styles routinely explored include Theatre of the Absurd, farce, comedy of manners, Greek Tragedy and magic realism. Exercises include physical drill, intensive scene work including research and analysis and sophisticated improvisation. Prerequisite(s): A THR 341 and permission of instructor. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
A THR 446 Topics in Voice (1–3)
Special topics selected to address particular needs and interests of advanced students. This course may be repeated once when content varies. Prerequisite(s): A THR 343 and permission of instructor.
A THR 447 Topics in Movement (1–3)
Special topics selected to address needs and interests of advanced students. This course may be repeated once when content varies. Prerequisite(s): A THR 339 and permission of instructor. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
A THR 448 Topics in Design and Technology (1–3)
Special topics selected to address particular needs and interests of advanced students. This course may be repeated once when content varies. Prerequisite(s): junior or senior standing, and permission of instructor.
A THR 449 Topics in Acting (1-3)
Special topics selected to address particular needs and interest of advanced students. This course may be repeated once when content varies. Prerequisite(s): A THR 440 or permission of instructor.
A THR 450 Directing (3)
A course in stage directing which includes the director’s function and responsibilities, script analysis, concept formulation, production preparation, communication and collaboration, organizing and conducting the rehearsal process and critical analysis of the director’s work. The course combines theory and practical exercises with actors and culminates in student direction of a public presentation. Prerequisite(s): A THR 121, 240, 235 and permission of instructor. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
A THR 451 Topics in Directing (1-3)
Special topics selected to address particular needs and interests of advanced students. This course may be repeated once when content varies. Prerequisite(s): A THR 450 and permission of instructor. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
ATHR 456Z Seminar in Dramatic Literature (3)
Examines a particular genre, movement, period or author. This course may be repeated once when content varies. Individual syllabi vary depending on the specific subject matter covered in the course. Prerequisite(s): A THR 221 and A THR 222, and junior or senior standing, or permission of instructor. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
A THR 457 Topics in Dramatic Literature (3)
Special topics selected to address particular needs and interests of advanced students. This course may be repeated once when content varies. Prerequisite(s): permission of instructor.
A THR 460 Set Design I (3)
The class will focus on the exploration of the theatrical text, and the design process as it relates to scenery. Studio skills, including rendering, drafting and model making, will be incorporated into a working process aimed at designing scenery for the theatre. Prerequisite(s): A THR 235 and 360, or permission of instructor. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
A THR 461 Set Design II (3)
As a continuation of Set Design I, the class will focus on the application of the principles of design for the theatre as they relate to scenery. Related graphic skills will be developed as design solutions are explored. Communication skills will be stressed as invaluable tools for the working designer. The class will culminate in project material ready for a portfolio presentation. Prerequisite(s): A THR 460 and permission of instructor. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
A THR 465 Technical Design I (3)
The application of theatre technology to problem solving in a theatrical organization. Topics will include equipment, rigging, methods, materials, and the principles governing their use. Technical innovation, budgeting of labor and materials, planning, and advanced drafting are considered as functions of the technical director. Prerequisite(s): A THR 235 and 360, or permission of instructor. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
A THR 466 Technical Design II (3)
The advanced study of theatre technology and production planning within a theatrical organization. Topics will include structural design, nontraditional methods and materials, moving scenery, technical facilities, production organization and planning, advanced budgeting issues, and highly developed drafting. The principles governing the functions of the technical director and production manager will also be investigated. Prerequisite(s): A THR 465 and permission of instructor. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
A THR 475 Lighting Design I (3)
The study of light as a design component 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, consideration of equipment and its effect on design, the awareness of light in the natural world, and an introduction to the preparation of lighting plots and paperwork. Prerequisite(s): A THR 335 and 370, or permission of instructor. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
A THR 476 Lighting Design II (3)
The advanced study of lighting design as a vital component in theatrical production. In-depth exploration of topics including lighting analysis, additive and subtractive color theory, methods for lighting different venues, advanced consideration of equipment and its effects, developing greater awareness of natural light and how to recreate it on stage, and preparation of professional quality lighting plots and paperwork. Prerequisite(s): A THR 475 and permission of instructor. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
A THR 481 Costume Design I (3)
The class will focus on the exploration of theatrical text and the design process as it relates to the development of a costume design thesis. Skills including rendering, research, and script analysis will be incorporated, using the design elements and principles, into a working process aimed at cogent costume designs for different styles of dramatic literature. Prerequisite(s): A THR 235, 380, and 381 or permission of instructor. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
A THR 482 Costume Design II (3)
Advanced problem solving projects in costume design. Emphasis working on various theatrical styles. Prerequisite(s): A THR 481 and permission of instructor. May not be offered in 2013-2014.
A THR 490 Internship (3–12)
Internships in professional theatre enable students to examine the way the theories and the practical experiences of our discipline interact. They provide opportunities for observation and participation which are not available in the classroom. Prerequisite(s): internships with professional theatrical organizations are available for qualified juniors and seniors with an overall grade point average of 2.50 or higher, and permission of Department Chair. S/U graded.
A THR 495 Portfolio and Career Preparation (3)
A culminating course for student designers and technicians to prepare them for the rigors of the industry. Topics will include portfolio creation, contracts, taxes, resumes, interviewing, and job hunting. Prerequisite(s): permission of instructor.
A THR 498 Honors Project (3)
A research or creative project in a selected area of concentration. Topics and issues vary according to the needs and goals set by the students with their mentors. The aim of this project is to allow students the opportunity to cultivate a distinctive personal direction and generate a significant body of work to pursue graduate study and/or a career in theatre. Prerequisite(s): admission into the Department of Theatre Honors Program which is by permission only.
A THR 499 Collaboration for the Theatre (3)
Selected topics and projects meeting needs and interest of advanced students. Prerequisite(s): permission of instructor.
