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 Technical Supervisor 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. May not be offered 2018-2019.
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 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 the practice of the yoga postures. An aspect of yoga practice is on challenging preconceptions of who we are, and evolving as human beings. Offered through the University in the High School Program only.
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 Technical Supervisor 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 Head 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 203 Crafting Solo Performance (3)
A workshop in the creation of solo performance pieces. By studying the work of a diverse group of contemporary theater artists, and using their examples, students will craft solo pieces that they will perform in class. Geared towards both writers and performers, students will hone skills of written, verbal, and physical expression, and will develop an individual process and professional tools for creating and refining a theatrical work, as they build towards a public performance showcase of solo pieces. No previous experience with playwriting or acting is required.
A THR 204 American Musical Theatre (3)
This course explores the evolution of musical theatre, identifying the social changes that caused the art form to evolve and grow. From the earliest musicals of the 1900's to Broadway's newest sensation today, the American musical reflects a changing society, both in the diversity of the stories it tells, and in the innovation of its storytelling. In addition to reading and lecture, emphasis will be placed on viewing archival video to track the significant creative and technological advances of the American musical. Topics include racial, gender, sexual, and cultural influences; popular music and rock and roll; and the business of Broadway.
A THR 205 Musical Theatre Acting I (3)
This course is designed to aid performers in gaining the necessary skills and techniques to perform and audition for professional musical theatre. The performers will lean how to act a song, do thorough song and character analysis, and work on vocal quality. By the end of the course, the performer will have four new solo pieces that can be performed and used at auditions plus they will have worked on callbacks. Prerequisite(s): permission of instructor; students must audition to take this class.
A THR 206 Musical Theatre Dance Styles (3)
This course is designed to prepare the musical theatre performer for a professional career in musical theatre by expanding their musical theatre dance capabilities. Performers will learn styles of dance from choreographers such as George Balanchine, Michael Bennett, Gower Champion, Agnes de Mille, Ron Field, Bob Fosse, Peter Gennaro, Michael Kidd, Jerry Mitchell, Kathleen Marshall, Rob Marshall, Susan Stroman, Tommy Tune, Jerome Robbins, Onna White, Bill T. Jones, Ron Ashford and Andy Blankenbuehler. Students will work on perfecting technique; however, this is not a class about learning technique. This class is about learning style of dance, how to sell it and how to give a good musical theatre dance audition.
A THR 208 Tap Dance (3)
This course is designed for students with some background in tap dance. This course will review basic elements and steps of tap dancing and introduce intermediate moves. The course will consist of a warm-up, extended barre, and center floor work. Combinations of steps with and without music will be used to understand rhythm, syncopation, and timing. Students will learn the correct foot and body placement and alignment in this style of dance. Prerequisite(s): audition required.
A THR 209 Jazz Dance (3)
This course is designed to give the student a comprehensive introduction to jazz techniques. Emphasis will be placed on breathing, placement, and positions of the feet and general awareness of the body. Basic technical elements will include plié, tendu, ronde de jambe, isolations, battement, pas de bourrée, sissonne, chasse, jeté, pirouette, chainés turns, Chassé En Tournant, Saut De Chat Jeté, Across-The-Floor Combinations. The early part of the semester will focus on technical elements. After an understanding of basic technique is achieved, dance combinations will be introduced to the class in order to apply the techniques learned at center floor. Each class will begin with a set center-floor warm-up and continue with a series of technique building exercises stressing a strong center, turns, leaps, and jumps. Prerequisite(s): audition required.
A THR 211 Hip-Hop Dance (3)
This course is designed to focus on foundations and origins of hip-hop dance and street dance culture, and the journey to today's current definitions of hip-hop and freestyle dance. The class will be explored primarily through movement participation by the students with dance instruction, drills, and routines demonstrated by the instructor, plus related video/YouTube assignments, and/or guest instructors. Students will be challenged and encouraged to understand and apply historical and practical knowledge of hip-hop. Prerequisite(s) audition required.
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.
A THR 221 Theatre History I (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 taken for credit by students with credit for A THR 227.
A THR 222 Theatre History II (3)
A survey of the dramatic literature and theatrical art of Europe and the United States from the English Restoration to the present. May not be taken for credit by students with credit for A THR 227.
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 2018-2019.
A THR 227 History of Theatre and Drama Survey (3)
This is a survey of dramatic literature and theatrical art, focusing on the most significant developments in dramatic structure and genres, acting and directing styles and techniques, stagecraft and scene design, theatre architecture, audience and patronage. In addition, the class also studies the accomplishments of great theatre artists (dramatists, architects, designers, actors, directors, etc.) and discusses their contributions in specific social-historical contexts and across cultures. May not be taken by students with credit for A THR 221 or 222.
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 2018-2019.
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.
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.
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 249 Topics in Acting (1-3)
Special topics and exercises selected to address particular needs and interests of intermediate students. The course may be repeated once when topic varies. 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. Repeatable up to 3 credits. S/U graded.
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 2018-2019.
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. May not be offered in 2018-2019.
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 2018-2019.
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.
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 2018-2019.
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 2018-2019.
A THR 300 Plays in Process (3)
This is a capstone course within the major and cannot be transferred in or substituted with any other course taken off-campus. It 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 the source material and its relationship to the development of the script as well as the production, including set, lighting, sound and costume design, directing and acting. Students are exposed, as directly as possible, to aspects of the creative process that makes theatre happen. It uses a combination of writing and discussion as a tool to achieve written proficiency in the field of theatre practice, research and criticism by analyzing, interpreting and evaluating written texts (plays, reviews, archival and documentary materials; critical, scholarly and theoretical articles), as well as performances and other artifacts. Prerequisite(s): permission of instructor.
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, Stage Manager, Master Electrician, Sound Engineer, Wardrobe Supervisor. Assignments are coordinated by the Technical Supervisor 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 Head 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.
A THR 305 Stage Combat (3)
This course is designed to familiarize students with the theory, history, and practice of theatrical combat, including unarmed (hand to hand combat), quarterstaff (traditional pole weapon made of wood), and rapier (a thin, sharp-pointed sword used for thrusting). Students will learn how to manipulate these weapons (unarmed, rapier and quarterstaff) in a safe and effective way, coordinating these techniques into choreography for the stage. Please note the blade on the rapier is dulled to the Society of American Fight Directors standard. Prerequisite(s): A THR 240 and A THR 339.
A THR 309 History of Musical Theatre (3)
This course offers a comprehensive historical and thematic study of American musical theatre, from its beginnings to contemporary offerings. In addition, the course considers the genres and styles that informed the evolution of musical theatre in America. Prerequisite: A THR 227, or permission of instructor. May not be offered in 2018-2019.
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. May not be offered in 2018-2019.
A THR 319 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. Prerequisite(s): A THR 221 and A THR 222, or A THR 227, or permission of instructor. This course may be repeated once when topic varies.
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 2018-2019.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 2018-2019.
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 2018-2019.
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 2018-2019.
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 2018-2019.
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.
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 2018-2019.
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 program director.
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 Head of Design and Technology 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 of instructor.
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.
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 2018-2019.
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 for Film, Theatre, and Media (3)
Studio projects grounded in theory and history of sound and musical composition for multimedia fields, among them film, video, and theater. Students will work on original studio projects in a variety of disciplines. Only one version of A MUS 428 may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): at least one of the following: A MUS 426, A ART 426, A THR 426, A ART 282, A ART 383, A DOC 406, A HIS 406, or permission of instructor.
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 theatre, 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 Theatre Program, or permission of the instructor.
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.
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 2018-2019.
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.
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 2018-2019.
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 2018-2019.
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 2018-2019.
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 2018-2019.
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.
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.
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 Theatre Program Director. 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. May not be offered in 2018-2019.
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 Theatre Program's 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. May not be offered in 2018-2019.
