Theatre Arts

This is a fundamental course in the systematic analysis of dramatic texts. It is designed to equip theatre arts majors and minors with the textual expertise and vocabulary needed for academic discussion and artistic collaboration. Students will read and research a series of scripts in order to investigate the process in which a play develops from page to performance. Emphasis will also be given to how directors, designers, performers, and spectators individually and collaboratively engage with and utilize a dramatic text during each phase of the pre-rehearsal, rehearsal, and performance process.

(Normally offered each fall semester.)

A course introducing students to all technical aspects of theatre production including scenery, properties, lighting, sound, makeup, and costuming. Particular emphasis is placed on practical knowledge of scenery, property construction techniques, and the materials used. Students must participate in a laboratory theatre experience.

(Normally offered each spring semester.)

The introductory course in costuming for the theatre. It presents the uses of fabrics, textures, colors, plastics, and other materials as well as developing the sewing techniques needed for the theatre.

(Normally offered each fall semester.)

Play reading is a course that focuses on the reading, discussion, and interpretation of dramatic texts. Its aim is to provide a concentrated study of both content and form of selected texts in an effort to broaden knowledge of dramatic techniques genre, and strategies for interpretation. Dramatic texts will vary each semester with the goal that students will gain knowledge of a large quantity of plays during a four-year period. This course may be repeated for credit up to eight times for Theatre Arts majors and up to three times for Theatre Arts minors.

The basic course in theatre. The appreciation of theatre is facilitated by units in the history of theatre, acting, directing, dramatic literature, and technical theatre. Does not count toward Theatre Arts major or minor.

(Normally offered each semester.)