Course Descriptions
Fall 2005
THDN 112A-1W Dance in Popular Culture
(4 credits)
L. Pinheiro
What do A Chorus Line , Fred Astaire, a Madonna Video, and many television commercials have in common? All of them make use of American Show dance. This class attempts to sharpen your interpretive, descriptive, and evaluative skills as you watch tap, jazz, ballroom, MTV, and musical theatre dance. Assessment is based on class assignments and class participation.
Prerequisite: None
Fulfills Fine, Performing and Literary Arts Learning Goal
Writing Intensive
THDN 120A- Art of the Theatre
(4 credits)
J. Humphries
An overview of the development of 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 Fine, Performing and Literary Arts Learning Goal
THDN 210C- Dance Ethnology
(4 credits)
S. Chang
The purpose of this course is to provide knowledge and understanding of the different cultures around the world by comparing and analyzing the differences of their folk dances. Through the understanding of the basic dance elements of time, space and movement quality, the course will help students to develop the ability to analyze the different styles, forms and functions of the dances of different countries and cultures. The course format includes video viewing, lecture/discussion, research, and learning some folk dances. Grading is based on participation, assignments, a mid-term exam, and a final presentation. Through this course the students are expected to develop and improve their ability to accept and appreciate different cultures other than their own.
Prerequisite: None
Fulfills Non-Western Cultures Learning Goal
THDN 222A – Acting
(4 credits)
S. Reynolds
This course assumes no previous experience with the craft of acting. Working from the foundation of the Stanislavsky system, Acting 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 Fine, Performing and Literary Arts Learning Goal
THDN 231 - Stage Design
(4 credits)
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 and 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 230A
Fulfills Fine, Performing and Literary Arts Goal
THDN 300 – Directing
(4 credits)
C. Georges
This course studies the art of play direction for the proscenium, thrust, 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 actors. 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 directorial work, examinations, and other assignments.
Prerequisite: THDN 222A
Fulfills Fine, Performing and Literary Arts Learning Goal
THDN 400 –Topics: Senior Seminar I
(2 credits)
J. Humphries
This course is offered for senior theatre majors only. This course will focus on career issues in both commercial and academic theatre. Students will develop a career plan through both individual and group research. A project will be required as well as two analysis papers.
