Course Descriptions
Fall 2004
THDN 120A - Art of the Theatre
4 semester hours
J. Humphries
An overview of the development of the Theatre, this course is designed to introduce students to dramatic literature and Theatre practice. This survey will explore the role of Theatre in Western culture within a historical context. The lecture/discussion format is designed to provide insights needed to understand and value Theatre as a part of our culture. During the term, students will read four plays and attend one production. Four projects, four tests, one critical essay , and one final exam will be required.
Prerequisite: None
Fulfills Goal R-10: Fine, Performing and Literary Arts
THDN 211A - Dance Composition
4 semester hours
C. LiChang
The Dance Composition course focuses on the development and presentation of dance composition. Improvisation techniques and authentic movement will be incorporated throughout the semester. Course will cover introduction to movement vocabulary, the language of dance, creating movement phrases, and the crafting of choreography. Assessment will be based on class participation, completion of assignments, and final project.
Prerequisite: None
Fulfills Goal R-10: Fine, Performing and literary Arts
THDN 222A - Acting I
4 semester hours
S. Reynolds
This course assumes no previous experience with the craft of acting. Working from the foundation of the Stanislavsky system, Acting I introduces the student to acting fundamentals through exercises, scene work, improvisations and character analysis. A book review and a final monologue are required.
Prerequisite: None
Fulfills Goal R-10: Fine, Performing and Literary Arts
THDN 231 - Stage Design
4 semester hours
J. Humphries
The class will explore the process of design for the stage. Students will study the range of style within the area of scenic, costume, and lighting design. The focus of the course will be on current methods of design communication, as well as, the development of production concepts. The role of directors and designers, in the collaborative process will be examined. The class will choose four projects from a list of plays.
Prerequisite: THDN 230
Fulfills Goal R-10: Fine, Performing and Literary Arts
THDN 270A - Contemporary Drama
4 semester hours
S. Reynolds
This course will investigate the new dramatic literature produced by American theatres. We will look at over 20 plays from current repertoire including work by August Wilson, Craig Lucas, Paula Vogel, Suzan Lori Parks, Rebecca Gilman, Tony Kushner, and Neil LaBute. Literary quality, production demands, and how the plays reflect our contemporary value systems will be analyzed. Journal, mid-term, final, paper and presentation are required.
Prerequisite: None
Fulfills Goal R-10: Fine, Performing and Literary Arts
THDN 300 - Directing I
4 semester hours
C. Georges
This course studies the art of play direction for proscenium and central stages. Basic fundamentals such as interpretation, composition, picturization, movement, and rhythm are considered. Production procedures related to auditions, casting, and rehearsals are discussed. Special emphasis is placed on studying techniques and methods of working with the actor.
The class has lecture/discussion and laboratory sessions. Each student is provided the opportunity to direct a one-act play during the semester. Evaluation is based on the student's directoral work, examinations, and other assignments.
Fulfills Fine, Performing and Literary Arts Learning Goal
Prerequisite: THDN 222
THDN 401 - Senior Seminar
4 semester hours
J. Humphries
This course is for senior Theatre majors only. We will concentrate on career development. Each senior will create projects in design, acting, criticism, and directing. Analysis papers will also be expected.
