Twin Cities campus

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Twin Cities Campus

Theatre Arts B.A.

Theatre Arts & Dance Dept
College of Liberal Arts
  • Program Type: Baccalaureate
  • Requirements for this program are current for Fall 2018
  • Required credits to graduate with this degree: 120
  • Required credits within the major: 31 to 41
  • Degree: Bachelor of Arts
This degree program offers study of the art form in both theoretical historical context and the practice of live dramatic performance. Course offerings include theatre history and dramatic literature; acting, movement, and voice; directing; design and technology for scenery, costume, lighting, makeup, and sound; and stage and arts management. Coursework also embraces theatre as a group art, an art in which individual excellence is often fully realized only in collaboration with other artists. The practical application of the art encourages students to test classroom experiences under the pressure of public performance in the laboratory of the University Theatre. For students interested in a BFA program, see Acting BFA for requirements.
Program Delivery
This program is available:
  • via classroom (the majority of instruction is face-to-face)
Admission Requirements
For information about University of Minnesota admission requirements, visit the Office of Admissions website.
General Requirements
All students in baccalaureate degree programs are required to complete general University and college requirements including writing and liberal education courses. For more information about University-wide requirements, see the liberal education requirements. Required courses for the major, minor or certificate in which a student receives a D grade (with or without plus or minus) do not count toward the major, minor or certificate (including transfer courses).
Program Requirements
Students are required to complete 4 semester(s) of any second language. with a grade of C-, or better, or S, or demonstrate proficiency in the language(s) as defined by the department or college.
All CLA BA degrees require 18-upper division (3xxx-level or higher) credits outside the major designator. These credits must be taken in designators different from the major designator and cannot include courses that are cross-listed with the major designator. The major designator for the theatre arts BA is TH. The theatre arts BA consists of base requirements, common across all sub-plans, and a choice between specialization in one of five sub-plans: generalist, social justice/applied drama, history/literature, design/technology, or performance creation. Each sub-plan carries a separate set of requirements to be completed in addition to the base requirements. Students may earn no more than one undergraduate degree from the theatre arts program: a BA in theatre arts, a BFA in acting, or a minor in theatre arts. All incoming CLA freshmen must complete the First-Year Experience course sequence.
Introductory Courses
Take exactly 4 course(s) totaling exactly 12 credit(s) from the following:
· TH 1321 - Fundamentals of Acting & Performance (3.0 cr)
· TH 1322 - Creating the Performance (3.0 cr)
· TH 1501 - Introduction to Design for the Theatre (3.0 cr)
· TH 1101W - Introduction to the Theatre [AH, WI] (3.0 cr)
or TH 1101V - Honors Section: Introduction to the Theater [AH, WI] (3.0 cr)
History of the Theatre
Take exactly 2 course(s) totaling exactly 6 credit(s) from the following:
· TH 3171 - Western Theatre & Performance Historiography: Part I (3.0 cr)
· TH 3172 - Western Theatre & Performance Historiography: Part II [HIS] (3.0 cr)
Stage Technology
Take exactly 1 course(s) totaling exactly 3 credit(s) from the following:
· TH 3571 - Introduction to Technology for the Theatre (2.0 cr)
Theatre Practicum
At least one credit of TH 3100 must be a production (not performance) credit.
Take 2 or more course(s) totaling 2 or more credit(s) from the following:
· TH 3100 - Theatre Lab Practicum (1.0 cr)
Capstone
Seniors execute and document a project of their own design over the course of a year. Projects may take of the form of, but are not limited to: a research paper, an internship with an arts organization, creation of an original work – play, dance, lighting, set design, sound score, etc., advanced technical position on a production, grant writing, portfolio development and presentation, educational curriculum development, film and/or software projects. A faculty advisor will serve as a resource.
Students who double major and choose to complete the capstone requirement in their other major may waive the Theater Arts BA capstone, but they do need to replace the 2 credits with a theatre arts elective.
Take exactly 1 course(s) totaling exactly 2 credit(s) from the following:
· TH 4901 - Project Exploration & Development (1.0 cr)
Upper Division Writing Intensive within the major
Students are required to take one upper division writing intensive course within the major. If that requirement has not been satisfied within the core major requirements, students must choose one course from the following list. Some of these courses may also fulfill other major requirements.
Take 0 - 1 course(s) from the following:
· TH 4177W - Analysis of Dramatic Literature [WI] (3.0 cr)
· TH 4178W {Inactive} [WI] (3.0 cr)
· TH 5179W - Text and Performance [WI] (3.0 cr)
· TH 5181W {Inactive} [WI] (3.0 cr)
or AFRO 5181W - Blacks in American Theatre [WI] (3.0 cr)
· TH 5182W - Contemporary Black Drama and Dramaturgies [WI] (3.0 cr)
or AFRO 5182W - Contemporary Black Drama and Dramaturgies [WI] (3.0 cr)
Program Sub-plans
Students are required to complete one of the following sub-plans.
Generalist
Take two courses totaling at least 6 credits to complete the sub-plan. The history/literature requirement is completed by the upper division writing intensive within the major requirement in the program requirements. Students must complete at least 11 credits of upper division coursework in residence at the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities campus.
Design/Technology
Take 1 or more course(s) totaling 3 or more credit(s) from the following:
· TH 3521 - Introduction to Scenic Design for Theatre and Performance (3.0 cr)
· TH 3531 - Introduction to Theatrical Costume Design (3.0 cr)
· TH 3541 - Introduction to Lighting Design for the Theatre (3.0 cr)
· TH 3559 - Introduction to Sound Design for the Theatre (3.0 cr)
· TH 3716 - Stage Management (4.0 cr)
· TH 5355 - Puppetry: Techniques and Practice in Contemporary Theater (3.0 cr)
Performance
Take 1 or more course(s) totaling 3 or more credit(s) from the following:
· TH 3321 - Acting I (3.0 cr)
· TH 3330 - Physical Approaches to Acting (3.0 cr)
· TH 3361 - Introductory Musical Theater (3.0 cr)
· TH 3381 - Theater Storytelling and Solo Performance (3.0 cr)
· TH 4322 - Acting for the Camera (3.0 cr)
· TH 5117 - Performance and Social Change (3.0 cr)
Social Justice/Applied Drama
Take 5 courses totaling at least 15 credits to complete the subplan. Students must complete at least 14 credits of upper division coursework in residence at the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities campus.
Electives
Select topics of TH 3950 & 5950 may count toward this requirement with prior approval from the director of undergraduate studies.
Take 5 or more course(s) totaling 15 or more credit(s) from the following:
· DNCE 3487W {Inactive} [WI] (3.0 cr)
· HECU 3581 {Inactive} [AH] (4.0 cr)
· HECU 3582 {Inactive} [DSJ] (4.0 cr)
· HECU 3583 {Inactive} [CIV] (8.0 cr)
· TH 3120 - Theatre: Theory and Practice (3.0 cr)
· TH 5117 - Performance and Social Change (3.0 cr)
· TH 5183 - Critical Literacy, Storytelling, and Creative Drama (3.0 cr)
· TH 5355 - Puppetry: Techniques and Practice in Contemporary Theater (3.0 cr)
· YOST 4314 - Theater Activities in Youthwork and Education (2.0 cr)
or YOST 5314 - Theatre Activities in Youthwork and Education (2.0 cr)
History/Literature
Take five courses totaling at least 15 credits to complete the sub-plan. Students must complete at least 14 credits of upper division coursework in residence at the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities campus.
Electives
Select topics of TH 3950 & 5950 may count toward this requirement with prior approval from the director of undergraduate studies.
Take 5 or more course(s) totaling 15 or more credit(s) from the following:
· TH 3120 - Theatre: Theory and Practice (3.0 cr)
· TH 4177W - Analysis of Dramatic Literature [WI] (3.0 cr)
· TH 4178W {Inactive} [WI] (3.0 cr)
· TH 5179W - Text and Performance [WI] (3.0 cr)
· TH 5183 - Critical Literacy, Storytelling, and Creative Drama (3.0 cr)
· TH 3152W - Global Avant-Gardes: Theatre, Music, Modernity [HIS, WI] (3.0 cr)
or TH 5152W {Inactive} [HIS, WI] (3.0 cr)
or GLOS 3152W {Inactive} [HIS, WI] (3.0 cr)
or GLOS 5152W {Inactive} [HIS, WI] (3.0 cr)
· TH 3311 {Inactive} (3.0 cr)
or AAS 3311 - Asian American Theater (3.0 cr)
· TH 5181W {Inactive} [WI] (3.0 cr)
or AFRO 5181W - Blacks in American Theatre [WI] (3.0 cr)
· TH 5182W - Contemporary Black Drama and Dramaturgies [WI] (3.0 cr)
or AFRO 5182W - Contemporary Black Drama and Dramaturgies [WI] (3.0 cr)
Design/Technology
Take six courses totaling at least 16 credits to complete the sub-plan, including the Theatre Practicum. Students must complete at least 15 credits of upper division coursework in residence at the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities campus.
Theatre Practicum
Take exactly 1 course(s) totaling exactly 1 credit(s) from the following:
· TH 3100 - Theatre Lab Practicum (1.0 cr)
Electives
Select topics of TH 3950 & 5950 may count toward this requirement with prior approval from the director of undergraduate studies.
Take 5 or more course(s) totaling 15 or more credit(s) from the following:
· TH 3521 - Introduction to Scenic Design for Theatre and Performance (3.0 cr)
· TH 3531 - Introduction to Theatrical Costume Design (3.0 cr)
· TH 3541 - Introduction to Lighting Design for the Theatre (3.0 cr)
· TH 3559 - Introduction to Sound Design for the Theatre (3.0 cr)
· TH 3716 - Stage Management (4.0 cr)
· TH 4380 - BA Studio Production: Creative Collaboration (1.0-3.0 cr)
· TH 4532 - Makeup for the Actor (2.0 cr)
· TH 4555 - Audio Technology (3.0 cr)
· TH 4556 {Inactive} (3.0 cr)
· TH 5100 - Theatre Practicum (1.0-4.0 cr)
· TH 5355 - Puppetry: Techniques and Practice in Contemporary Theater (3.0 cr)
· TH 5500 - Theatre Design Practicum (1.0-3.0 cr)
· TH 5510 - Drawing, Rendering, and Painting for the Theatre Designer I (3.0 cr)
· TH 5520 - Scene Design (3.0 cr)
· TH 5530 - Costume Design (3.0 cr)
· TH 5540 - Lighting Design for the Theatre (3.0 cr)
· TH 5545 - Stage Lighting Technology (3.0 cr)
· TH 5559 - Sound Design for Performance (3.0 cr)
· TH 5560 - Drawing, Rendering, and Painting for the Theatre Designer II (3.0 cr)
· TH 5570 - Properties/Scenery Technology (1.0-3.0 cr)
· TH 5580 - Costume Technology (3.0 cr)
· TH 5590 - Theatre Technology Practicum (1.0-3.0 cr)
· TH 5716 - Stage Management for the Theatre (4.0 cr)
· TH 5760 - Advanced Stage Management (2.0 cr)
Performance Creation
Take nine courses totaling at least 15 credits including BA mentoring and creative collaboration to complete the sub-plan. Students must complete at least 14 credits of upper division coursework in residence at the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities campus.
BA Mentoring
Take exactly 4 course(s) totaling exactly 4 credit(s) from the following:
· TH 3370 - BA Masterclass (1.0 cr)
Creative Collaboration
Take exactly 2 course(s) totaling 2 or more credit(s) from the following:
· TH 4380 - BA Studio Production: Creative Collaboration (1.0-3.0 cr)
Electives
Select topics of TH 3950 & 5950 may count toward this requirement with prior approval from the director of undergraduate studies.
Take 3 or more course(s) totaling 9 or more credit(s) from the following:
· TH 3115 - Introduction to Playwriting (3.0 cr)
· TH 3314 {Inactive} (3.0 cr)
· TH 3316 - Voice for the Actor (3.0 cr)
· TH 3321 - Acting I (3.0 cr)
· TH 3322 - Acting II (3.0 cr)
· TH 3330 - Physical Approaches to Acting (3.0 cr)
· TH 3332 - Circus Performance (1.0 cr)
· TH 3361 - Introductory Musical Theater (3.0 cr)
· TH 3381 - Theater Storytelling and Solo Performance (3.0 cr)
· TH 3711 - Beginning Directing (3.0 cr)
· TH 4115 - Intermediate Playwriting (3.0 cr)
· TH 4321 - Career Preparation for the Theatre Artist (3.0 cr)
· TH 4322 - Acting for the Camera (3.0 cr)
· TH 4532 - Makeup for the Actor (2.0 cr)
· TH 4711 - Intermediate Stage Direction (3.0 cr)
· TH 5117 - Performance and Social Change (3.0 cr)
· TH 5330 - Comedy: Advanced Physical Performance Studio (3.0 cr)
· TH 5340 - Advanced Acting Studio: Tragedy/Poetry (3.0 cr)
· TH 5355 - Puppetry: Techniques and Practice in Contemporary Theater (3.0 cr)
· TH 5370 {Inactive} (3.0 cr)
· TH 5711 - Advanced Stage Direction (3.0 cr)
· TH 3365 - Intermediate Musical Theatre (3.0 cr)
· TH 3311 {Inactive} (3.0 cr)
or AAS 3311 - Asian American Theater (3.0 cr)
 
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· College of Liberal Arts

View future requirement(s):
· Fall 2023
· Spring 2023
· Fall 2022
· Spring 2021
· Fall 2020
· Spring 2019

View sample plan(s):
· Generalist Sample Plan
· Social Justice/Applied Drama Sample Plan
· History/Literature Sample Plan
· Design/Technology Sample Plan
· Performance Creation Sample Plan

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· Theatre Arts B.A.
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TH 1321 - Fundamentals of Acting & Performance
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
A fundamental overview of acting that focuses on strengthening the vital connection between physical and vocal expression and uniting instinct and intellectual analysis. Classes focus on ensemble awareness, situation and script analysis, character development and dramaturgical skills. In this course students develop their ?acting instrument:? body, voice and imagination; they learn to make bold, specific choices in scripted and improvisational circumstances, they explore a range of physical and vocal expression, they develop the ability to respond and adapt to other performers onstage, and intensify their focus and presence in performance. Technique, theory and structured improvisation are incorporated with scene work and collaborative performance projects, offering an opportunity to assimilate the principles covered. The course explores scripted scenes and monologues as well as original-student generated work.
TH 1322 - Creating the Performance
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
An introduction to techniques of creating and directing performance, this course introduces students to the multiple paradigms of creating new and scripted work. Students examine the shifting role of the playwright, actor, and director as primary creator, interpreter, collaborator, and interdisciplinary artist and their relationship to a variety of performance modes. Students will direct traditional scripted scenes and collaborate to devise new work, exploring acting, writing, directing, and design to create solo and group performances. This course may be taken concurrently with some upper division courses. Specific approach may vary by instructor.
TH 1501 - Introduction to Design for the Theatre
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Grading Basis: A-F only
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
Introduction to Design for the Theatre explores the collaborative process of theatre making with a focus on theatrical design. Students will investigate scenic, costume, lighting, and sound design in an active environment through lectures, discussions, reading assignments, writing exercises, workshops, and experiential projects. This course aims to challenge students as creative thinkers and problem solvers along with preparing them for a future as collaborative theatre makers.
TH 1101W - Introduction to the Theatre (AH, WI)
Credits: 3.0 [max 4.0]
Course Equivalencies: Th 1101W/Th 1101V
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
What is theatre? And what can it be? In this introductory course, we investigate the idea that while theatre is art, it also has consequences. Theatrical performance reflects, resists, and rewrites culture; it can (and does) perform the political by reimagining and transforming society. Through exciting examples of plays and productions from around the world, we investigate the history, politics, and aesthetics of theatre. We explore how the different components of theatre (from directing to acting, costume, and lighting design) come together to create powerful impact on stage. We read and discuss plays in class, see performances on stage, and hear from some of the Twin Cities?s most dynamic and committed artists. And we work on valuable writing skills that help us to deepen our understanding of theatre and communicate our insights to others. At the end of the class, we bring together everything we have been learning to make theatre in small groups. No previous theatre experience is needed.
TH 1101V - Honors Section: Introduction to the Theater (AH, WI)
Credits: 3.0 [max 4.0]
Course Equivalencies: Th 1101W/Th 1101V
Grading Basis: A-F only
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
What is theatre? And what can it be? In this introductory course, we investigate the idea that while theatre is art, it also has consequences. Theatrical performance reflects, resists, and rewrites culture; it can (and does) perform the political by reimagining and transforming society. Through exciting examples of plays and productions from around the world, we investigate the history, politics, and aesthetics of theatre. We explore how the different components of theatre (from directing to acting, costume, and lighting design) come together to create powerful impact on stage. We read and discuss plays in class, see performances on stage, and hear from some of the Twin Cities?s most dynamic and committed artists. And we work on valuable writing skills that help us to deepen our understanding of theatre and communicate our insights to others. At the end of the class, we bring together everything we have been learning to make theatre in small groups. No previous theatre experience is needed. Prereq: Honors student
TH 3171 - Western Theatre & Performance Historiography: Part I
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall
What does it mean to represent? By focusing on a critical examination of this and similar questions, this course will investigate how performance events from the Ancient Greece to the French Revolution are brought to our attention, how they are made worthy of notice, and how they are rationalized as significant for theatre and performance history. By studying the theories of the Western origins of theatre and drama, the censoring of creative activities in the Ancient Rome or in the Renaissance England, the appearance of female actors and playwrights in Restoration, and the fashioning of a new economic type the eighteenth century, this course will ask: what are the consequences today of using or promoting these and not other representational practices?
TH 3172 - Western Theatre & Performance Historiography: Part II (HIS)
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Spring
?Dare to Think? is the motto for a critical examination of representational practices from the Age of Enlightenment until the Postmodern Condition today. We will discuss how theatre makers and thinkers responded to this call by offering playtexts and performance practices which challenged mainstream theatre in the era of the revolutions in time and space?Naturalism, Symbolism, Futurism, Dada, Surrealism; Agit-Prop, Theatre of the Oppressed, Theatre for Social Change; Black, Feminist, Queer Theatres; and Pixelated Revolutions. We will investigate histories, politics, and aesthetics of theatre and performance in a variety of cultural and ideological contexts. While reviewing these representational practices, which materialize as play-texts, performances, theatre architecture, theatre rebellions and regulations, theoretical writings, etc., we will discuss how they were produced, given intelligibility, and disseminated. One may ask: what are the consequences of using or promoting these and not other representational practices? How are performance events brought to our attention by the past and present imaginations? How are they made worthy of notice are rationalized as significant for theatre history.
TH 3571 - Introduction to Technology for the Theatre
Credits: 2.0 [max 3.0]
Grading Basis: A-F only
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
This course is constructed to help each student experience the processes of theater production by working hands-on with production technologies & methodologies. Students will be divided into three teams for the entire semester which will move through several production disciplines & instructors; Scenic, Costumes, & Lighting in rotations of eight class sessions each, and Audio for two class sessions. These classroom projects are reinforced with 4 hours per week of Lab [ practical application and practice ] in one of the shops. We will explore the interrelationship of Production Practice through three key elements; Production Processes & Modes of Communication - [ Visual, Narrative, Data Sets ]. Production Space Systems & Equipment - [ Large Tools, Permanent Infrastructure, Auxiliary/ Temporary Infrastructure ]. Production Skills & Techniques - [ Small Tools, Proprietary Theater Equipment, Construction/ Installation Techniques ].
TH 3100 - Theatre Lab Practicum
Credits: 1.0 [max 4.0]
Grading Basis: S-N or Aud
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
This course is for the student to gain more experience, develop new skills, or possibly hone current ones through practical application in the Theatre Arts Shops. Students will complete hours in the Scenery/Properties shop, Costume Shop, Sound/Media Lab, or Light Lab throughout the semester. Registration in TH 3100 is also available for students using show hours to serve in a production capacity on a main stage show, such as technical direction or master electrician.
TH 4901 - Project Exploration & Development
Credits: 1.0 [max 2.0]
Grading Basis: A-F only
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
TH4901 is the prerequisite course for the Senior Capstone Project required for graduation by the College of Liberal Arts. Students will propose, refine, and plan their Capstone project through a structured feedback process and in close dialogue with an assigned faculty mentor. Projects may be connected to creative collaborative production as long as they go above and beyond basic requirements for participation. Projects may take of the form of, but are not limited to: a research paper, an internship with an arts organization, creation of an original work ? play, dance, lighting, set design, sound score, etc., advanced technical position on a production, grant writing, portfolio development and presentation, educational curriculum development, film, and/or software projects. A faculty adviser will serve as a resource in the proposal development stage, advise on the progress of the research and planning and evaluate its effectiveness and quality. Ideally this course will serve as the planning phase for the ?Capstone? college experience, bringing together several years of coursework and productions in theatre arts and dance in order to prepare you for life and work after departing the University of Minnesota
TH 4177W - Analysis of Dramatic Literature (WI)
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall
This course trains students in the analysis of dramatic literature and develops their research skills in theatre studies, helping them understand plays within their contexts of origin and production. Taking a single theme (ex. madness, or death and mourning) the class brings together contemporary and historical plays from around the world, exploring how theatre offers a unique site to stage differences, understand marginalized experiences, and imagine alternative visions of the world. Assignments break down the writing process into its component parts, and guide students in developing a sustained interpretation of a play of their choice.
TH 5179W - Text and Performance (WI)
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Grading Basis: A-F or Aud
Typically offered: Every Fall
How to read texts toward performance in various dramatic/nondramatic material. Method of unlocking metaphoric energy of texts. Vocabulary/techniques of analysis that transform text from page to stage. prereq: [1322, [3171 or 3172]] or grad student
AFRO 5181W - Blacks in American Theatre (WI)
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Course Equivalencies: Afro 5181W/Th 5181W
Typically offered: Periodic Spring
Historical survey of significant events in the development of American black theater traditions. Essays, plays, playwrights, and theaters from early colonial references to the Black Arts Movement.
TH 5182W - Contemporary Black Drama and Dramaturgies (WI)
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Course Equivalencies: Afro 5182W/Th 5182W
Typically offered: Every Spring
This course is an exploration of the impact and evolution of Black Theatre in America, covering the period rising from the Black Arts Movement to the present. The exploration will entail an understanding of cultural and socio-political issues as they are reflected in key and significant plays written and produced from the late 1950?s to the present. The plays and essays will be read against the background of significant cultural, social and literary movements - the Civil Rights Movement, Cold War politics, the Women?s Movement, Gay Liberation, the Culture Wars, post-modernism, deconstruction, multiculturalism, afro-futurism, etc. as well as the evolution of identity nomenclature and racial classification from Colored to Negro to Black to African American. In addition to play analysis and criticism, students will garner a knowledge of significant Black cultural institutions and their impact on the ever-changing American theatre landscape.
AFRO 5182W - Contemporary Black Drama and Dramaturgies (WI)
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Course Equivalencies: Afro 5182W/Th 5182W
Typically offered: Every Spring
This course is an exploration of the impact and evolution of Black Theatre in America, covering the period rising from the Black Arts Movement to the present. The exploration will entail an understanding of cultural and socio-political issues as they are reflected in key and significant plays written and produced from the late 1950's to the present. The plays and essays will be read against the background of significant cultural, social and literary movements - the Civil Rights Movement, Cold War politics, the Women's Movement, Gay Liberation, the Culture Wars, post-modernism, deconstruction, multiculturalism, afro-futurism, etc. as well as the evolution of identity nomenclature and racial classification from Colored to Negro to Black to African American. In addition to play analysis and criticism, students will garner a knowledge of significant Black cultural institutions and their impact on the ever-changing American theatre landscape.
TH 3521 - Introduction to Scenic Design for Theatre and Performance
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Spring
This course explores the role of the scenic designer in imagining theatre in space and time. We will shape the arena of dialogue between performer and audience. We will propel action through spatial composition. We will make concrete the tensions and conflicts of the play. We will investigate the composition of emotional and visual space of the theatre. We will communicate ideas by honing skills of drawing, drafting, rendering, modeling, and presentation.
TH 3531 - Introduction to Theatrical Costume Design
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Spring
Costume design process, including, researching, script analysis, the costume designer's role throughout the production process, and design problems. prereq: TH 3571
TH 3541 - Introduction to Lighting Design for the Theatre
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Spring
Principles and processes in lighting design and lighting technology. Collaborative process of the lighting designer through individual and group projects in a theater, including script analysis and visual literacy through sketching, drafting, and light lab projects. Individual and group projects in composition, color theory, instrumentation, control (dimming), and programming as they apply to theater, opera, and dance.
TH 3559 - Introduction to Sound Design for the Theatre
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
Basics of audio design for theatre. Script analysis, audio editing, music research, basic system design, paperwork, cue building. Basic components of audio design. Final project will involve applying skills to partially realized design. prereq: 1501
TH 3716 - Stage Management
Credits: 4.0 [max 4.0]
Grading Basis: A-F only
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
Production process, pre-production to maintaining/closing. Managing rehearsals, communication, conflict resolution. Individual/group projects: promptbook building, blocking notation, Cue placement/execution, scene breakdowns, creating/maintaining checklist, building a form library. prereq: 1501 or instr consent
TH 5355 - Puppetry: Techniques and Practice in Contemporary Theater
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
Fundamentals of puppet and object theater/performance are introduced through traditional/contemporary puppetry forms. Focuses on object theater, toy theater, hand puppets, and shadow/Bunraku-style puppets. Readings, in-class screenings of videos/slides. Students build/create series of short works for in-class performance. prereq: [[3513 or concurrent registration is required (or allowed) in 3513], instr consent] or grad student
TH 3321 - Acting I
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall
Acting I explores the acting process using the canon of 20th century realism. The class will cover the basics of embodiment for the actor, observation as the root of character creation, analysis of text from an actors perspective, and rehearsal techniques. The core of the course is the preparation of scenes and monologues in class. Students will also complete a variety of class compositions, readings, and will see and analyze live performances.
TH 3330 - Physical Approaches to Acting
Credits: 3.0 [max 6.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
Dynamic physical approach to acting. Expanding expressiveness/creativity. Strengthening connections between physical/vocal expression. Uniting instinct and intellectual analysis. Techniques as advanced by Delsarte, Meyerhold, Grotowski, Kantor, Suzuki, Barba, etc., and structured improvisation, are incorporated in solo/collaborative performance projects. prereq: 1322, [3314 or concurrent registration is required (or allowed) in 3314], audition, instr consent
TH 3361 - Introductory Musical Theater
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Grading Basis: A-F or Aud
Typically offered: Periodic Fall & Spring
History of American musical theater. Videos/discussions, basic music theory, voice, dance, acting, audition techniques. Solo/ensemble presentations for public class performance.
TH 3381 - Theater Storytelling and Solo Performance
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Spring
Live storytelling and solo performance as theatrical art form. How to turn personal experiences into stage stories. Guests perform, discuss their work, and critique student work. Students develop short monologues/performances and conclude with original solo theater performance/story.
TH 4322 - Acting for the Camera
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
Differences between stage acting and acting for camera. Hands-on experience with film equipment. Scenes/monologues rehearsed/performed for camera. Videotape playback for class critique. prereq: 1301 or 3321
TH 5117 - Performance and Social Change
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Grading Basis: A-F or Aud
Typically offered: Periodic Fall
Reading, writing, research, presentations and workshops explore activist performance projects. Theories of social formation and ideology provide framework to discuss/animate theater's potential for social change. prereq: Jr or sr or grad student
TH 3120 - Theatre: Theory and Practice
Credits: 3.0 [max 6.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
Introdution to diverse ways of thinking about theatre and its representational practices. Students explore traditional/non-traditional modes of performance through readings, discussions, and hands-on performance projects. Seminar-style course. prereq: 1101
TH 5117 - Performance and Social Change
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Grading Basis: A-F or Aud
Typically offered: Periodic Fall
Reading, writing, research, presentations and workshops explore activist performance projects. Theories of social formation and ideology provide framework to discuss/animate theater's potential for social change. prereq: Jr or sr or grad student
TH 5183 - Critical Literacy, Storytelling, and Creative Drama
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Course Equivalencies: CI 5483/ TH 5183
Typically offered: Every Summer
This course examines and embodies how storytelling and creative drama can be used as tools to help develop students? critical literacy and to assist them in becoming more fluent readers and writers. Critical literacy is the focus; theater and storytelling are the vehicles. Key topics to be covered include: 1) A historical background on fairy and folk tales, legends, fables, myths, and the different oral traditions; 2) Tools for developing a critical view of diverse tales; 3) Practical instruction on how to use storytelling and story genres in the classroom to develop critical literacy; 4) Assessing storytelling work in the classroom. Students will meet in the first week at the University to learn tools of the Neighborhood Bridges program and in the second week will practice and observe each other?s teaching with local school classrooms. In the past we have worked with 4th graders and 6th graders, though we will also discuss how course content applies to high school students. The class meets for two intensive weeks in person, however, we additionally assign pre-readings and post-class reflections and papers.
TH 5355 - Puppetry: Techniques and Practice in Contemporary Theater
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
Fundamentals of puppet and object theater/performance are introduced through traditional/contemporary puppetry forms. Focuses on object theater, toy theater, hand puppets, and shadow/Bunraku-style puppets. Readings, in-class screenings of videos/slides. Students build/create series of short works for in-class performance. prereq: [[3513 or concurrent registration is required (or allowed) in 3513], instr consent] or grad student
YOST 4314 - Theater Activities in Youthwork and Education
Credits: 2.0 [max 2.0]
Course Equivalencies: YoSt 4314/YoSt 5314
Typically offered: Every Spring
Empowering methods of personal/creative development using experiential learning and theater activities to enhance creativity/imagination. Approaches to working with youth in school and youth agency settings. Experiential learning, improvisational theater theory/practice. prereq: 1001 or 2101
YOST 5314 - Theatre Activities in Youthwork and Education
Credits: 2.0 [max 2.0]
Course Equivalencies: YoSt 4314/YoSt 5314
Typically offered: Every Spring
Using experiential learning and theater activities to enhance creativity and imagination of youth workers and educators. Approaches to working with youth in school and agency settings. Application of experiential learning and improvisational theater theory/praxis. prereq: 1001 or 2101
TH 3120 - Theatre: Theory and Practice
Credits: 3.0 [max 6.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
Introdution to diverse ways of thinking about theatre and its representational practices. Students explore traditional/non-traditional modes of performance through readings, discussions, and hands-on performance projects. Seminar-style course. prereq: 1101
TH 4177W - Analysis of Dramatic Literature (WI)
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall
This course trains students in the analysis of dramatic literature and develops their research skills in theatre studies, helping them understand plays within their contexts of origin and production. Taking a single theme (ex. madness, or death and mourning) the class brings together contemporary and historical plays from around the world, exploring how theatre offers a unique site to stage differences, understand marginalized experiences, and imagine alternative visions of the world. Assignments break down the writing process into its component parts, and guide students in developing a sustained interpretation of a play of their choice.
TH 5179W - Text and Performance (WI)
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Grading Basis: A-F or Aud
Typically offered: Every Fall
How to read texts toward performance in various dramatic/nondramatic material. Method of unlocking metaphoric energy of texts. Vocabulary/techniques of analysis that transform text from page to stage. prereq: [1322, [3171 or 3172]] or grad student
TH 5183 - Critical Literacy, Storytelling, and Creative Drama
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Course Equivalencies: CI 5483/ TH 5183
Typically offered: Every Summer
This course examines and embodies how storytelling and creative drama can be used as tools to help develop students? critical literacy and to assist them in becoming more fluent readers and writers. Critical literacy is the focus; theater and storytelling are the vehicles. Key topics to be covered include: 1) A historical background on fairy and folk tales, legends, fables, myths, and the different oral traditions; 2) Tools for developing a critical view of diverse tales; 3) Practical instruction on how to use storytelling and story genres in the classroom to develop critical literacy; 4) Assessing storytelling work in the classroom. Students will meet in the first week at the University to learn tools of the Neighborhood Bridges program and in the second week will practice and observe each other?s teaching with local school classrooms. In the past we have worked with 4th graders and 6th graders, though we will also discuss how course content applies to high school students. The class meets for two intensive weeks in person, however, we additionally assign pre-readings and post-class reflections and papers.
TH 3152W - Global Avant-Gardes: Theatre, Music, Modernity (HIS, WI)
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Course Equivalencies: GloS 3152W/Th 3152W/Th 5152W/
Typically offered: Every Spring
What does it mean to be an avant-garde artist in the Global South? In postcolonial Africa and Asia, where arts were linked to national modernization projects, artists have played a key role in shaping citizens? identity, alongside schools and universities. While participating in modernizing projects, avant-garde artists maintained independence from state institutions and voiced criticism of dictators. This course examines avant-garde performance in several locations of the Global South, analyzing dramas of national history, modernist music, activist theater, cosmopolitan dance, transnational cultural circuits, and politically radical performances. Reading historical, social, and performance studies, we will develop methods for analyzing performances that aim to make transformative social interventions. These include textual analysis, ethnography, performance analysis, and tracking transnational cultural exchange. You will apply select methods in your final research paper, which centers on an avant-gardist cultural phenomenon in the contemporary Global South.
AAS 3311 - Asian American Theater
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Course Equivalencies: AAS 3311/Th 3311
Typically offered: Periodic Fall & Spring
Through submerging students in both theater history and practice, this class brings students closer to the history, experiences, and politics of Asian Americans. Why are Asian American stories needed and how do we tell them? What are the artistic and social agendas driving the making of Asian American theater? How have the styles of performance shifted? While we will be actively working on readings and original theater projects, you don't need to be a theater expert to enjoy this class. Topics will include reading plays by Frank Chin, David Henry Hwang, Wakako Yamauchi, Naomi Iizuka, and others; looking at the history of Asian American theater companies; discussing creative approaches to casting, acting, directing, and design; and building collaborations among companies, audiences, and communities.
AFRO 5181W - Blacks in American Theatre (WI)
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Course Equivalencies: Afro 5181W/Th 5181W
Typically offered: Periodic Spring
Historical survey of significant events in the development of American black theater traditions. Essays, plays, playwrights, and theaters from early colonial references to the Black Arts Movement.
TH 5182W - Contemporary Black Drama and Dramaturgies (WI)
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Course Equivalencies: Afro 5182W/Th 5182W
Typically offered: Every Spring
This course is an exploration of the impact and evolution of Black Theatre in America, covering the period rising from the Black Arts Movement to the present. The exploration will entail an understanding of cultural and socio-political issues as they are reflected in key and significant plays written and produced from the late 1950?s to the present. The plays and essays will be read against the background of significant cultural, social and literary movements - the Civil Rights Movement, Cold War politics, the Women?s Movement, Gay Liberation, the Culture Wars, post-modernism, deconstruction, multiculturalism, afro-futurism, etc. as well as the evolution of identity nomenclature and racial classification from Colored to Negro to Black to African American. In addition to play analysis and criticism, students will garner a knowledge of significant Black cultural institutions and their impact on the ever-changing American theatre landscape.
AFRO 5182W - Contemporary Black Drama and Dramaturgies (WI)
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Course Equivalencies: Afro 5182W/Th 5182W
Typically offered: Every Spring
This course is an exploration of the impact and evolution of Black Theatre in America, covering the period rising from the Black Arts Movement to the present. The exploration will entail an understanding of cultural and socio-political issues as they are reflected in key and significant plays written and produced from the late 1950's to the present. The plays and essays will be read against the background of significant cultural, social and literary movements - the Civil Rights Movement, Cold War politics, the Women's Movement, Gay Liberation, the Culture Wars, post-modernism, deconstruction, multiculturalism, afro-futurism, etc. as well as the evolution of identity nomenclature and racial classification from Colored to Negro to Black to African American. In addition to play analysis and criticism, students will garner a knowledge of significant Black cultural institutions and their impact on the ever-changing American theatre landscape.
TH 3100 - Theatre Lab Practicum
Credits: 1.0 [max 4.0]
Grading Basis: S-N or Aud
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
This course is for the student to gain more experience, develop new skills, or possibly hone current ones through practical application in the Theatre Arts Shops. Students will complete hours in the Scenery/Properties shop, Costume Shop, Sound/Media Lab, or Light Lab throughout the semester. Registration in TH 3100 is also available for students using show hours to serve in a production capacity on a main stage show, such as technical direction or master electrician.
TH 3521 - Introduction to Scenic Design for Theatre and Performance
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Spring
This course explores the role of the scenic designer in imagining theatre in space and time. We will shape the arena of dialogue between performer and audience. We will propel action through spatial composition. We will make concrete the tensions and conflicts of the play. We will investigate the composition of emotional and visual space of the theatre. We will communicate ideas by honing skills of drawing, drafting, rendering, modeling, and presentation.
TH 3531 - Introduction to Theatrical Costume Design
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Spring
Costume design process, including, researching, script analysis, the costume designer's role throughout the production process, and design problems. prereq: TH 3571
TH 3541 - Introduction to Lighting Design for the Theatre
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Spring
Principles and processes in lighting design and lighting technology. Collaborative process of the lighting designer through individual and group projects in a theater, including script analysis and visual literacy through sketching, drafting, and light lab projects. Individual and group projects in composition, color theory, instrumentation, control (dimming), and programming as they apply to theater, opera, and dance.
TH 3559 - Introduction to Sound Design for the Theatre
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
Basics of audio design for theatre. Script analysis, audio editing, music research, basic system design, paperwork, cue building. Basic components of audio design. Final project will involve applying skills to partially realized design. prereq: 1501
TH 3716 - Stage Management
Credits: 4.0 [max 4.0]
Grading Basis: A-F only
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
Production process, pre-production to maintaining/closing. Managing rehearsals, communication, conflict resolution. Individual/group projects: promptbook building, blocking notation, Cue placement/execution, scene breakdowns, creating/maintaining checklist, building a form library. prereq: 1501 or instr consent
TH 4380 - BA Studio Production: Creative Collaboration
Credits: 1.0 -3.0 [max 12.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
Creative Collaboration is the cornerstone class for BA Performance, turning research into practice through scripted and devised performance paradigms. Each semester students will work with practitioners from eclectic backgrounds to develop original or scripted work focused in one of the six areas of performance; directing; physical theater; realism, playwriting, music driven theater, and object/puppet theater. Classes will culminate in a formal or workshop performance, depending on the goal of each specific collaboration. Non-performers such as designers, dramaturgs and technicians may take the course for credit and serve as part of the collaborative team. The course is open to any University of Minnesota student through the audition or interview process.
TH 4532 - Makeup for the Actor
Credits: 2.0 [max 2.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
Topics vary. May include functions/aesthetics of stage makeup, application techniques, prosthetics, and facial hair.
TH 4555 - Audio Technology
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Periodic Fall
Sound as science. Technology to create/manipulate sound. Recording techniques. Effects/signal processing. Microphone/mixing techniques. prereq: 1501 or instr consent
TH 5100 - Theatre Practicum
Credits: 1.0 -4.0 [max 20.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
Individual creative projects in production of approved plays as an actor, director, dramaturg, or playwright. (See 5500 for design practicums.) prereq: instr consent, dept consent; 4 cr of 3100 for undergrads
TH 5355 - Puppetry: Techniques and Practice in Contemporary Theater
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
Fundamentals of puppet and object theater/performance are introduced through traditional/contemporary puppetry forms. Focuses on object theater, toy theater, hand puppets, and shadow/Bunraku-style puppets. Readings, in-class screenings of videos/slides. Students build/create series of short works for in-class performance. prereq: [[3513 or concurrent registration is required (or allowed) in 3513], instr consent] or grad student
TH 5500 - Theatre Design Practicum
Credits: 1.0 -3.0 [max 20.0]
Prerequisites: Th 3521, 3531, or 3541
Typically offered: Every Fall, Spring & Summer
Individual projects in production of approved plays as a designer of scenery/properties, costumes, lighting, or sound. (See 5100 for other creative practicums.) prereq: Th 3521, 3531, or 3541
TH 5510 - Drawing, Rendering, and Painting for the Theatre Designer I
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Prerequisites: 1501 or grad
Typically offered: Periodic Fall & Spring
Development of skills necessary for presentation of theatre scene/costume designs. Materials, layout, and techniques in scene painting. Basic drawing/graphic skills. prereq: 1501 or grad
TH 5520 - Scene Design
Credits: 3.0 [max 9.0]
Prerequisites: 3521
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
Conceiving/communicating design ideas in both two-dimensional sketches and three-dimensional models for theatre and allied venues. Drafting. prereq: 3521
TH 5530 - Costume Design
Credits: 3.0 [max 9.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall
Theory and process of costume design for theatrical productions (e.g., dance, opera, film) through hypothetical productions. prereq: 3531
TH 5540 - Lighting Design for the Theatre
Credits: 3.0 [max 9.0]
Prerequisites: 3541
Typically offered: Every Spring
Design aesthetics and exploration of design for various stage forms and venues. Development of the lighting plot and paperwork; use of the computer in lighting design. prereq: 3541
TH 5545 - Stage Lighting Technology
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Periodic Fall
The lighting technician's skills and crafts: equipment, techniques, control operation, wiring, and maintenance. prereq: 3515 or grad or instr consent
TH 5559 - Sound Design for Performance
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Periodic Fall & Spring
Audio technology/psychology, their impact on audience in a performance. Communication, design process, psychoacoustics, script analysis. prereq: 4555 or instr consent
TH 5560 - Drawing, Rendering, and Painting for the Theatre Designer II
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Periodic Spring
Development of skills necessary for presentation of theatre scene/costume designs. Materials, layout, and techniques in scene painting. Rendering and scene painting skills. prereq: 5510
TH 5570 - Properties/Scenery Technology
Credits: 1.0 -3.0 [max 15.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
Management, structures, upholstery, mask-making, furniture construction, stage mechanics, soft properties, faux finishes. Topics specified in Class Schedule. prereq: 3515 or grad or instr consent
TH 5580 - Costume Technology
Credits: 3.0 [max 15.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
Fabric enhancement techniques, masks, wig-making, millinery, makeup prosthetics, pattern drafting, and draping. Topics specified in Class Schedule. prereq: 3571 or grad or instr consent
TH 5590 - Theatre Technology Practicum
Credits: 1.0 -3.0 [max 15.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall, Spring & Summer
Individual creative project in technology/craft area of theatre. Practical work in costume, lighting, makeup, props, scenery, sound, or theatre management. prereq: 3515, instr consent, dept consent; 4 cr max for undergrads
TH 5716 - Stage Management for the Theatre
Credits: 4.0 [max 4.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall
Theories, practicalities, and techniques for rehearsal/performance. Organizing/managing various types of performance venues. prereq: [1101, 1321, soph] or grad
TH 5760 - Advanced Stage Management
Credits: 2.0 [max 6.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
TH 5760 is practical experience in stage management for specific productions of the University Theatre with emphasis on rehearsal and performance. In addition to rehearsals, design meetings, and performances, the students will meet with the Production Stage Manager weekly. The purpose of this weekly meeting (class) is to mentor a lead Stage Manager of a TAD Mainstage. The Mainstage Stage Manager and PSM will meet weekly for 90 minutes. Each weekly meeting time will be determined based on the individual students? schedule. Weekly meetings will begin two weeks prior to their first rehearsal and end one week after the final project performance. Attendance of individual weekly meetings are required and expected. Please be on time. Always bring your promptbook and laptop. Be prepared for weekly discussion. PSM will visit rehearsals weekly.
TH 3370 - BA Masterclass
Credits: 1.0 [max 4.0]
Grading Basis: A-F only
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
Prepare BA theatre performance majors/minors with essential skills that will enhance performing careers as actors, directors, playwrights. Attend non-traditional performances by national/international touring companies. Engage in vigorous discussions led by those artists who are at the forefront of creation models. Rigorous skill-building workshops led by artists, scholars, technicians.
TH 4380 - BA Studio Production: Creative Collaboration
Credits: 1.0 -3.0 [max 12.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
Creative Collaboration is the cornerstone class for BA Performance, turning research into practice through scripted and devised performance paradigms. Each semester students will work with practitioners from eclectic backgrounds to develop original or scripted work focused in one of the six areas of performance; directing; physical theater; realism, playwriting, music driven theater, and object/puppet theater. Classes will culminate in a formal or workshop performance, depending on the goal of each specific collaboration. Non-performers such as designers, dramaturgs and technicians may take the course for credit and serve as part of the collaborative team. The course is open to any University of Minnesota student through the audition or interview process.
TH 3115 - Introduction to Playwriting
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
Study of traditional play structure, characterization, dialogue, dramatic action, and theme. Final project is a one-act play.
TH 3316 - Voice for the Actor
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Grading Basis: A-F only
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
Anatomy/physiology of vocal/respiratory mechanisms. Abdominal breathing, forward tonal placement, articulation of consonants, vocal projection. IPA phonetic transcription and vowel standardization for American Standard Stage Speech. Techniques applied to performance of monologues. prereq: 1101, 1321, 1322
TH 3321 - Acting I
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall
Acting I explores the acting process using the canon of 20th century realism. The class will cover the basics of embodiment for the actor, observation as the root of character creation, analysis of text from an actors perspective, and rehearsal techniques. The core of the course is the preparation of scenes and monologues in class. Students will also complete a variety of class compositions, readings, and will see and analyze live performances.
TH 3322 - Acting II
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Spring
Acting II explores the acting process using scripts from primarily heightened or non-realistic texts. This can include a range of genres from Shakespeare to absurdism to contemporary performance and plays. This course covers the basics of embodiment for the actor, creativity and observation as the roots of character creation, analysis of text from an actors perspective and rehearsal techniques. The core of the course is the preparation of scenes and monologues in class. Students will also complete a variety of class compositions, readings and will see and analyze live performances.
TH 3330 - Physical Approaches to Acting
Credits: 3.0 [max 6.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
Dynamic physical approach to acting. Expanding expressiveness/creativity. Strengthening connections between physical/vocal expression. Uniting instinct and intellectual analysis. Techniques as advanced by Delsarte, Meyerhold, Grotowski, Kantor, Suzuki, Barba, etc., and structured improvisation, are incorporated in solo/collaborative performance projects. prereq: 1322, [3314 or concurrent registration is required (or allowed) in 3314], audition, instr consent
TH 3332 - Circus Performance
Credits: 1.0 [max 1.0]
Grading Basis: A-F only
Typically offered: Every Spring
Strength/conditioning, aerial techniques. Acrobatics to improve timing/muscular structure. Juggling to improve hand-eye coordination and showmanship.
TH 3361 - Introductory Musical Theater
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Grading Basis: A-F or Aud
Typically offered: Periodic Fall & Spring
History of American musical theater. Videos/discussions, basic music theory, voice, dance, acting, audition techniques. Solo/ensemble presentations for public class performance.
TH 3381 - Theater Storytelling and Solo Performance
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Spring
Live storytelling and solo performance as theatrical art form. How to turn personal experiences into stage stories. Guests perform, discuss their work, and critique student work. Students develop short monologues/performances and conclude with original solo theater performance/story.
TH 3711 - Beginning Directing
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
The goal of this class is to introduce you to the basic work and process of the stage director. We will emphasize the practical tasks of analysis, casting, rehearsing, and staging. Our stylistic focus will be on contemporary realistic/naturalistic theater (rather than experimental forms or verse plays). The classwork will invite you to explore many aspects of the craft of directing, including the following: · Defining the role of the director: responsibility & relationships to playwright/actors/audience. · How to think and conceptualize like a director. · What is blocking? How does it work? Who creates it? Staging actions and events. · Understanding the building blocks of life on stage through composition & scene work. · Analysis of dramatic text from the director?s point of view (and expressing it in writing). · Preparation in the role of the director ? historical/textual/visual research. · Rehearsing and working with actors - What makes a good rehearsal? What is the relationship between actors and director?
TH 4115 - Intermediate Playwriting
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Spring
New methods of play construction. How characteristic plays from particular contemporary styles create original theatrical effects by using/breaking dramatic conventions. Writing exercises, workshoping of student plays. prereq: 3115 or [writing sample, instr consent]
TH 4321 - Career Preparation for the Theatre Artist
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Spring
From personal reflection to real-world insights and hands-on experiences, this course will delve deeply into the skill sets and mindsets important for arts professionals in theater and related fields. I envision our time together as a combined exploration of philosophical, political, and practical questions, thinking through who you want to BE as an artist, what you want your art to DO, and the TOOLS you'll need to manifest that vision in the world. The course will connect you with resources on and off campus, introduce you to professionals working in various facets of the field, engage you in readings and hands-on workshops to deepen your thinking and expand your toolkit, and will culminate in a portfolio project that you can take with you as you transition to life after college. Most importantly, I want this course to be useful and valuable to you, so I will be seeking your input about what you most need, and we'll shape the course accordingly.
TH 4322 - Acting for the Camera
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
Differences between stage acting and acting for camera. Hands-on experience with film equipment. Scenes/monologues rehearsed/performed for camera. Videotape playback for class critique. prereq: 1301 or 3321
TH 4532 - Makeup for the Actor
Credits: 2.0 [max 2.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
Topics vary. May include functions/aesthetics of stage makeup, application techniques, prosthetics, and facial hair.
TH 4711 - Intermediate Stage Direction
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Spring Odd Year
The goal of the class is to introduce you to the basic work and process of the stage director with particular focus on directing of non-realistic theatre and performance. We will be focusing on analysis, casting, rehearsing, and composing moments and performances working from written plays, non- theatrical material and personal story. The class will invite you to take on the following: ? Thinking and conceptualizing like a director ? Understanding analysis for non-realistic texts ? Staging actions and events ? Honing critical analysis of performances from directors point of view ? Analysis of dramatic text from the director?s point of view (and expressing it in writing) ? Rehearsing and working with actors ? Researching and communicating with designers ? Confronting the assumptions about what theatre is and choosing to keep or discard them
TH 5117 - Performance and Social Change
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Grading Basis: A-F or Aud
Typically offered: Periodic Fall
Reading, writing, research, presentations and workshops explore activist performance projects. Theories of social formation and ideology provide framework to discuss/animate theater's potential for social change. prereq: Jr or sr or grad student
TH 5330 - Comedy: Advanced Physical Performance Studio
Credits: 3.0 [max 9.0]
Grading Basis: A-F only
Typically offered: Every Spring
Mechanics of creating physical comedy. Focuses on process using clown, Comedia dell'arte, Bouffons, or improvisational comedy. Exercises on how comedy is born from tragedy and state of conflict within one's self. prereq: 3330, audition
TH 5340 - Advanced Acting Studio: Tragedy/Poetry
Credits: 3.0 [max 6.0]
Grading Basis: A-F only
Typically offered: Every Fall
Specific training paradigms in actor training employed by Stanislavski, Grotowski, Brecht, Lecoq, etc. Psychological, emotional, technical, and physical work. Tragic action in Greek tragedy, Shakespeare, Melodrama, operatic characterization, Brecht. Original tragic/poetical work for embodying dramatic text effectively.
TH 5355 - Puppetry: Techniques and Practice in Contemporary Theater
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
Fundamentals of puppet and object theater/performance are introduced through traditional/contemporary puppetry forms. Focuses on object theater, toy theater, hand puppets, and shadow/Bunraku-style puppets. Readings, in-class screenings of videos/slides. Students build/create series of short works for in-class performance. prereq: [[3513 or concurrent registration is required (or allowed) in 3513], instr consent] or grad student
TH 5711 - Advanced Stage Direction
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Periodic Fall & Spring
Realistic/nonrealistic dramatic forms. Theory/technique of rehearsal. Production problems. Includes directing of three one-act plays. prereq: [4711, instr consent] or grad student
TH 3365 - Intermediate Musical Theatre
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Grading Basis: A-F or Aud
Typically offered: Periodic Fall & Spring
Musical theatre varying styles. Incorporating music into devised work, as well as strategies on updating traditional performance. Singing, interpretation, dance techniques. Culminates in presentations in public class performance. prereq: 3361 or instr consent
AAS 3311 - Asian American Theater
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Course Equivalencies: AAS 3311/Th 3311
Typically offered: Periodic Fall & Spring
Through submerging students in both theater history and practice, this class brings students closer to the history, experiences, and politics of Asian Americans. Why are Asian American stories needed and how do we tell them? What are the artistic and social agendas driving the making of Asian American theater? How have the styles of performance shifted? While we will be actively working on readings and original theater projects, you don't need to be a theater expert to enjoy this class. Topics will include reading plays by Frank Chin, David Henry Hwang, Wakako Yamauchi, Naomi Iizuka, and others; looking at the history of Asian American theater companies; discussing creative approaches to casting, acting, directing, and design; and building collaborations among companies, audiences, and communities.