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Courses
For a current listing of course requirements for our majors and minors, see our Degree Sheet.
THEA 002: ACTING FOR NON-MAJORS, 3 credit hrs.
An introduction to performance technique in the theatre designed specifically for non-major students interested in performance but with little or no stage experience.
THEA 003: TECHNIQUE OF ACTING I, 3 credit hrs.
Training of the body, voice, and mind as an acting instrument; acting exercises; scene analysis and performance. Open to theatre majors and minors only.
THEA 004: TECHNIQUE OF ACTING II, 3 credit hrs.
Advanced scene work including character analysis and methods of preparing a role; acting theories. Participation in student-directed scenes is required. Prereq.: THEA 003. For Theatre Majors and minors only or by permission of the instructor.
THEA 005: READINGS IN THEATRE, 3 credit hrs.
A writing/online discussion based format surveying Western dramatic literature from ancient Greece to the present.
THEA 006: PLAYWRITING I, 3 credit hrs.
The writing of scenes and one-act plays. Experimental production of student manuscripts.
THEA 014: MOVEMENT I, 2 credit hrs.
Movement for the actor emphasizing skeletal alignment and correct body placement for the purpose of developing efficient, economical movement. The physical, emotional, and psychological motivations of movement are explored. Stretch and strengthening, relaxation techniques, breath control, clarity of rhythm, dynamics, and design of the body in space and time are studied at a beginning level through the following techniques: jazz, modern, and ballet. Intended for Theatre majors/minors only.
THEA 015: MOVEMENT II, 2 credit hrs.
Movement II is designed to introduce the actor to building ensemble and creating motivated movement onstage. The result of the work will be to develop efficient, economical movement that is in direct contact with emotional impulses shaped by intellect but not inhibited by it. Through viewpoints and contact improv, we will explore the physical, emotional, and psychological motivations of movement. Intended for Theatre majors/minors only.
THEA 018: MUSICAL THEATRE DANCE STYLES, 3 credit hrs.
This is an advanced level dance class intended to prepare performers for a professional career in musical theatre, by exposing them to important musical theatre choreographers and their dance styles. Students will hone and apply techniques to better their musical theatre dancing capabilities. Emphasis will be placed on technique, flexibility, control, stamina and endurance as well as choreographic combinations of varying difficulty. The class will also focus on dance auditioning skills, including mock dance calls. Combinations will proceed at an accelerated intensity for this level, and a professional demeanor is required, which includes self-motivation and responsibility. Intended for Musical Theatre majors/minors only.
THEA 019: MIME, 3 credit hrs.
The craft of silent dramatic communication. Realistic and "illusory" mime; the handling of imaginary objects, weight, shape, and texture; creation of environment and physical characterization; improvised silent theatre emphasizing physical dexterity, speed, and accuracy. Prereq.: THEA 014.
THEA 020: VOICE I: FOUNDATIONS OF VOICE FOR THE STAGE, 2 credit hrs.
Active exploration of techniques for developing a physical awareness in the voice as an instrument of expression. Exercises in recognizing habits and beginning to free the voice from physical and psychological tension, such as: alignment, relaxation, breathing, placement, and the production of vibration. Exploration of vocal expression and emotion. Strengthening and making more flexible the muscles of speech.
THEA 021: VOICE II: ARTICULATION FOR THE STAGE, 2 credit hrs.
Continuing to build a strong, healthy voice. An enlightening approach to learning the sounds of Standard American speech for clear articulation. Techniques and practice for increasing vocal strength, range, flexibility and the study of articulation as "sculpting sound." Students become fluent in the use of the International Phonetic Alphabet.
THEA 030: STAGECRAFT I, 1-4 credit hrs.
A study of the physical stage and methods of scenery construction, rigging, and shifting. The mechanics of stage lighting are explored. Tools, materials, and technique are taught through lectures, demonstrations, and laboratory sessions. Lab is required with six hours of lab time a week throughout the semester.
THEA 031: COSTUMING, 0 to 3 credit hrs.
Introductory study of costume design and practical construction techniques through demonstrations, projects, and "hands-on" laboratory work. Costume lab is required, to be taken concurrently. Lab covers practical applications of costume construction and design through active participation with departmental productions. Sixty hours of lab time required throughout the semester.
THEA 032: STAGE MAKEUP, 3 credit hrs.
Study of various stage makeup techniques through assigned projects and practical applications. Emphasis is on designing makeup for an audience proximity of 30 feet. Course is generally offered in fall semester only.
THEA 033: MECHANICAL DRAFTING, 3 credit hrs.
This course introduces the students to the basics of mechanical drafting by hand as it relates to theatrical design and production. Students will learn the fundamental drafting methods for scenic and lighting design as well as scenic engineering and technical production.
THEA 050: TUMBLING FOR THEATRE, 1 credit hr.
An introduction to basic tumbling skills used in stage productions. Prereq.: THEA 014 and THEA 015.
THEA 051: STAGE COMBAT, 3 credit hrs.
An introduction to fencing techniques and other elements of stage combat. Prereq.: THEA 014 and THEA 015.
THEA 055: ACTING III, 3 credit hrs.
For students possessing the talent and ability to continue study of the art of acting; special emphasis given to characterization through study and laboratory practice; scenes from standard and classic plays used. Prereq.: THEA 003 and THEA 004.
THEA 056: JAZZ, 3 credit hrs.
Students master basic jazz performance skills with an emphasis on spine and alignment while exploring vocabulary, technique, flexibility, control, stamina and endurance as well as choreographic combinations of varying difficulty. Jazz classes are conducted in a variety of levels appropriate to each student’s individual skills as assessed by the faculty. Class content includes explorations of position in parallel and turned out, isolations, jazz walks, jazz runs, pas de bourre turns, chaines turns, jazz pirouettes, and other across-the-floor sequences and combinations. Intended for Theatre majors/minors only.
THEA 057: TAP, 3 credit hrs.
In this course students will practice fundamental principles, skills, and vocabulary of beginning and intermediate tap technique. Class will always begin with a proper warm-up, followed by learning new steps and vocabulary with rhythm practice, proceeded by progressions across the floor, and will typically end with a center combination. There is an emphasis placed on spine and alignment while exploring vocabulary, technique, weight transitions, rhythmic acuity, acoustic dynamics and choreographic combinations of varying difficulty. Combinations of steps with and without music will be used to understand rhythm, syncopation, and timing. Tap classes are conducted in a variety of levels appropriate to each student’s individual skill as assessed by the faculty. Intended for Theatre majors/minors only.
THEA 058: BALLET, 3 credit hrs.
This course places an emphasis on spine and alignment while exploring vocabulary, technique and traditional ballet positions, and continuing through choreographic combinations of varying difficulty. By building the proper technical foundation, students will learn to understand the proper body mechanics and anatomical considerations needed for the execution of ballet, as well as other styles of dance. Depending on the level, class content will include explorations of Plier, tendu, degage, battement, por de bras, pirouettes, jetes, fuettes, adage, petite allegro and other combinations. Ballet classes are conducted in a variety of levels appropriate to each student’s individual skill as assessed by the faculty. Intended for Theatre majors/minors only.
THEA 059: MUSICAL THEATRE DANCE, 3 credit hrs.
The course focuses on the ability to demonstrate and maintain proper alignment when exhibiting basic dance techniques while performing Musical Theatre combinations. Students will also improve flexibility, strength and control; identifying and demonstrating basic dance terminology; being “on the mark” spatially and musically; performance as a solo artist, with a dance partner and as an ensemble member. Intended for Musical Theatre majors/minors only.
THEA 060: MUSICAL THEATRE I, 3 credit hrs.
Students will gain the necessary skills and techniques to perform and audition for contemporary musical theatre. Students will learn how to act a song, do thorough song and character analysis, correctly identify musical song types and styles, and work on vocal technique. Students will also learn a group number to be performed in a final cabaret performance. By the end of the course, students will have four contemporary solos of contrasting style, ready for performance and audition. Intended for Theatre majors/minors only.
THEA 062: STAGECRAFT II, 0 to 4 credit hrs.
Focus on the uses and manipulation of non-lumber construction materials; advanced construction methods and rigging; facility and scenic mechanics. Sound production and special effects are explored. Lab is required.
Prereq.: THEA 30. Laboratory work applying the principles taught in stagecraft to class-related projects and elements of the department's productions. Six hours of lab time a week throughout the semester.
THEA 063: INTRO TO DESIGN FOR THEATRE, 3 credit hrs.
An introductory study of scenic and lighting design for the stage. Students study drafting, model making, rendering, and the basics of script analysis. This course is recommended for theatre education students. Prereq.: THEA 30 and THEA 31 and THEA 33, or consent of instructor.
THEA 070: BRITISH STAGE DIALECTS, 2 credit hrs.
The study of those dialects from the British Isles most likely to be encountered in period and contemporary plays, including Received Pronunciation (Standard English), Cockney, North Country, Irish, Scottish, Welsh, and West Country.
THEA 074: CONTEMPORARY FILM, 3 credit hrs.
This web course is an introduction to the social, cultural and aesthetic value of film. An understanding of basic cinematic genre, structure and technique will be explored through readings, film viewing and on-line discussion. Access to a well-stocked video store required.
THEA 075: SCREENWRITING, 3 credit hrs.
An introduction to screenwriting that covers screenplay form and formatting, visual storytelling, style, tone and film genre. Story, character development and dialogue writing will be emphasized. Students will be required to write a short (minimum 30-minute/maximum 45-minute) screenplay.
THEA 076: INTRODUCTION TO THE THEATRE, 3 credit hrs.
Theory, history, and techniques of theatre. This course is not for theatre arts majors and is designed to increase appreciation of the theatre.
THEA 077: THE BUSINESS OF THE ARTS, 3 credit hrs.
Artists are taught how to create but not to prepare for the business end of their fields. This course addresses dealing with the business issues of Art. It incorporates self- marketing and career-planning skills. Various topics to be discussed include importance of resumes, developing contacts and networking, seeking mentors, unions, agents and representation, goal setting, finding appropriate markets for employment post-graduation, entertainment taxes and law. This course is available for all Fine Arts students.
THEA 080: COSTUME DESIGN, 3 credit hrs.
A concentrated study of costume design through project assignments relating to specific periods in Western history. Format includes slide presentations, lectures, discussions, critiques, and concept meetings about specific texts. Prereq.: THEA 31 and THEA 124. Course is offered in spring semester only.
THEA 100: ACTING IV, 3 credit hrs.
Advanced actor training for those preparing to enter the profession as performers or teachers. Prereq: THEA 055 (open to only BFA Acting, Musical Theatre and Theatre Education majors, or by permission of the instructor.)
THEA 101: MUSICAL THEATRE II, 3 credit hrs.
An advanced course in musical theatre performance. Students continue to develop techniques for preparation and performance of musical theatre material, auditioning, and the synthesis of acting and singing skills. The course will focus on the Golden Age of Musical Theatre (Pre-1960s) with some application to contemporary musical theatre. These skills are demonstrated in a final cabaret performance. Intended for Theatre majors/minors only.
THEA 102: AUDITIONING, 3 credit hrs.
Experience in the various kinds of audition settings. Included are prepared readings, cold readings, improvisations, and interviews. Strong emphasis on preparing for auditions mentally and emotionally.
THEA 103: DIRECTING I, 3 credit hrs.
Study and production of basic units in the modern realistic play; directing theories; the directing of scenes. Prereq.: THEA 003 and THEA 004 or consent of instructor.
THEA 104: DIRECTING II, 3 credit hrs.
Study and production of extended units in modern realistic plays; introduction to directing of period plays; preparation of a longer piece. Prereq.: THEA 103.
THEA 105: DIALECTS FOR THE STAGE, 3 credit hrs.
Continuing to build a strong, healthy voice. Exercises and techniques for learning the means necessary to master common dialects used on stage. Utilizing the International Phonetic Alphabet along with sound substitutions as a powerful tool for dialect acquisition and performance. A holistic approach whereby students not only learn how to acquire dialects, but teach the dialects they learn. Prerequisite: THEA 021.
THEA 110: INTRO TO INTERACTIVE MULTIMEDIA, 3 credit hrs.
The goal of this course is to introduce students to the potential of interactive multimedia as an instruction/ presentation media. Topics include content development, graphics, interactivity, and distribution issues. Class members use a variety of software, including Adobe Premiere, Macromedia's Authorware, Director, and SoundEdit-16 to develop content and interactivity. Projects and exercises are assigned daily to develop the students' abilities to conceptualize the use of interactive materials and to develop a basic knowledge of this sophisticated software. Education majors are especially encouraged to enroll. Limited to ten students.
THEA 114: CLASSIC AMERICAN FILM, 3 credit hrs.
In this course we will look at nine classic Hollywood films from the point of view of the writers who penned the screen plays. The unique perspective of the writer is one that is seldom explored, their work being overshadowed by the promotion of the actors and directors. In-class film-viewing and discussion is required. Purchase of text is necessary, additional reading assignments will be made from web-based sources. Information about film genre and terminology will be reviewed and included in weekly quizzes.
THEA 116: MUSICAL THEATRE III, 3 credits
An advanced course in musical theatre script analysis and scene performance. Students continue to develop techniques for preparation and performance of musical theatre material, and the synthesis of acting, singing, and dancing skills. These skills are demonstrated in a final cabaret performance. Intended for Theatre majors/minors only.
THEA 118: CREATIVE DRAMATICS FOR CHILDREN, 3 credit hrs.
Aimed especially at potential teachers. The uses of drama in the classroom as a developmental activity. Includes units on mime, improvisation, movement and spatial concepts, verbal and non-verbal communication, story-telling and the "illustrated story," and the use of creative drama as a teaching aid in other disciplines. A practical workshop class with regularly performed projects.
THEA 120: THEATRE HISTORY TO 1660, 3 credit hrs.
A survey of the development of the theatre from its ancient origins to the Restoration (c. 1660).
THEA 120T: THEATRE HISTORY I, 3 credit hrs.
In this course we will look at the history and literature of the theatre from the point of view of the society in which they operated. We will examine how theatre reflects the assumptions of a culture and how theatre artists use their medium to express their belief or disbelief in those systems. Through an immersion in the theatrical culture of London, and the historical sites we will visit (ancient and modern), we will be able to get a full understanding of the role theatre has played and continues to play in our culture and society.
THEA 121: THEATRE HISTORY SINCE 1660, 3 credit hrs.
Continuance of THEA 120 from the English Restoration to the modern period. Prereq.: THEA 120.
THEA 123: MUSICAL THEATRE HISTORY, 3 credit hrs.
A survey of American musical theatre, including historical development, influences from other countries and cultures, dominant composers, and an in-depth study of seminal works.
THEA 124: TECHNICAL THEATRE PRACTICUM, 1 credit hr.
Credit for active participation in the technical area of departmental production(s). Possible assignments include wardrobe, specialty makeup, design assistant, costume shop foreman, light and sound board operations, construction and design assistants, props master and crew, backstage run and fly crews.
THEA 130: DIRECTED INDEPENDENT STUDY IN THEATRE ARTS, 0 to 16 credit hrs.
By permission.
THEA 131-138: SPECIAL TOPICS IN ACTING, 3 credit hrs.
A series of advanced acting courses. The material covered to be chosen from Brecht, Shakespeare, Farce, for the camera, Classic Theatre, 17th Century Drama, Musical Theatre, and Experimental Techniques. Prereq.: THEA 003 and THEA 004.
THEA 140: ACTING PRACTICUM, 1 credit hr.
Development of roles within the departmental production program. By permission.
THEA 150: SOUND FOR THEATRE, 3 credit hrs.
This course focuses on the technical equipment and creative conventions of sound design for the theatre. Practical exercises and creative projects involving the mixing of sound effects, music, and sound reinforcement for plays and musicals are the main thrust of the course. Students work with traditional analog sound equipment and tape. An emphasis is placed on learning to create, edit, and mix digital sound on the computer. Prereq.: THEA 31 or consent of instructor.
THEA 160: STAGE MANAGEMENT, 3 credit hrs.
Study of the organization and operation of professional, educational, and community theatres. Required laboratory work as stage managers, assistant stage managers, or crew heads for departmental productions. Prereq.: THEA 31. Course is offered in fall semester only.
THEA 161: SCENE DESIGN, 3 credit hrs.
Theory of design, decoration, and color applied to stage settings. Practice in mechanical drawing, sketching, and building models of original designs for a variety of plays. Prereq.: THEA 63 or consent of instructor.
THEA 162: STAGE LIGHTING, 3 credit hrs.
Study of the principles of stage lighting design. Design projects include light plots for proscenium, thrust, and arena stages. Script analysis and practical projects are emphasized. Laboratory work as design assistants, master electrician, and lighting crew is required. Prereq.: THEA 63 or consent of instructor.
THEA 163: CADD FOR THEATRE, 3 credit hrs.
This course introduces the student to the basics of computer aided drafting and design. The course emphasizes the use of computer software as a conceptualization, visualization, and drafting tool. Prereq.: THEA 30 or consent of instructor.
THEA 165: PROJECTS IN THEATRE, 1 to 3 credit hrs.
Tutored projects in production for the exceptionally qualified student. Admission upon presentation of suitable project outline. Prereq.: Consent of instructor.
THEA 170: PLAYWRIGHTS ACTING COMPANY, 1 to 3 credit hrs.
This course develops student play writing skills in a workshop environment. Authors meet weekly with actors and directors to refine their work through readings and discussion. A number of scripts are selected by the company, to be directed, rehearsed, and presented for an evening of public performance. Prereq.: Consent of instructor.
THEA 171: APPLIED MUSIC VOCAL TRAINING, 1 credit hr.
Applied voice lessons concentrating on musical theatre and development of a repertoire. Performance development of musical theatre literature in combination with piano accompaniment. One hour of credit per half-hour weekly lesson. Two hours of credit per one-hour weekly lesson. Public performance of repertoire at end of term is possible.
THEA 181: ADVANCED COSTUME TECHNOLOGY, 3 credit hrs.
An exploration into various advanced costuming techniques and materials not necessarily encountered in previous laboratory experience. To include, but are not limited to: millinery, under structures, fabric dyeing/painting, accessories/costume properties, masks, footwear, and mascot style characters. Course is offered in spring semester only.
THEA 182: SEMINAR IN ADVANCED DESIGN, 3 credit hrs.
Advanced research and projects in one or more of the following areas: scenery, lighting, sound, costumes, makeup, properties, theatre design, and equipment. Prereq.: Consent of instructor.
THEA 183: SCENE PAINTING, 3 credit hrs.
A study of the tools, media, and techniques of scene painting. This course emphasizes the practical application of scene painting methods through class projects and active participation in the painting of departmental productions. Lab is required. Laboratory work applying the principles and techniques taught in THEA 183, Scene Painting. Time to be arranged.
THEA 184: COSTUME DESIGN, 3 hrs.
A concentrated study of costume design through project assignments relating to specific periods in Western history. Format includes slide presentations, lectures, discussions, critiques, and concept meetings about specific texts. Prereq.: THEA 31 and THEA 124. Course is offered in spring semester only.
THEA 190: SENIOR CAPSTONE EXPERIENCE, 1 credit hr.
This is a tutored, production related project intended to serve as summary experience for senior theatre majors. Examples of these positions are: an audition package or portfolio presentation; a role in a main stage production; design or technical direction of a main stage production; a research project related to the producing of theatre; etc. Capstones must be completed while the student is an academic senior and must be approved by their advisor and the faculty member of record for the capstone.
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