This introduction course is designed to examine and explore the history and process of the play director. It will introduce the student to the basic elements of stage direction and its function in the production of stage performance. Prerequisites: 107, 155.

This introductory design course is intended to acquaint students with a general understanding of the various aspects and issues of design in the theatre, and to encourage students to explore interests and abilities in design. Emphasis will be placed upon the process of design for sets, costumes, lights, and properties, as well as upon period historical styles as reflected in design.

A study of plays, current production, playwrights, actors, and theatrical practices in selected cities, either in the U.S. or abroad. This course culminates in a required field trip which allows on site observation of theatrical practices, and consists of attending productions and guest lectures as well as backstage tours. Additional fees required. May be repeated for credit with different content. Graded CR/NC.

A comprehensive survey course that encompasses the study of important periods of Western theatre history and dramatic literature form the Greeks through the present. The course will look in depth at the people who have created theatre by perfecting traditional forms or developing new ones. Highly influential dramatic texts in the Western Canon will be read and analyzed. Upon completion, the student will have an understanding of the forces which shaped the past, and be able to relate present theatrical styles, theories, and plays to the past.

This course will address the role of the stage manager as assistant to the director during rehearsals and in the management of backstage activities during productions including scheduling, company and union rules, rehearsal procedures, time management, scene shifts, running, and touring.

This is a continuation of the acting skills development begun in Acting I. The course examines the fundamentals of the acting process through exercises and scene study designed to strengthen such skills as trust, relaxation, listening, imagination, concentration, ensemble and observation. Upon completion of this course students will have a solid grounding in the fundamentals of acting and will be able to apply and demonstrate this knowledge in performance. Prerequisite: 107. Restricted to theatre and music theatre majors and minors.

This course will engage the student in a search for production and performance values in a given play script. The student will learn how to read, interpret, and analyze dramatic texts as the essential basis for all theatre production work. A vital element of the course will be participation in all research, discussion, and exploration of each play and genre studied.

This basic skills course is designed to acquaint students with safe and efficient use of shop and stage equipment. The development of skills for general scenic production and an understanding of materials, techniques, and construction processes constitute the primary emphasis of the course.

An instruction and practical application of costuming skills are included in this course which focuses on an introduction to fashion history and the basic principles of costume design, familiarization with textiles and basic costume construction terminology, and training in hand and machine sewing.

A practical approach to the design and execution of makeup for the actor is explored. Principles of character analysis and application are addressed. Skills serve as the basis for in-class projects.