Course Descriptions
Spring 2005
THDN 120 A - Art of Theatre
(4 semester hrs.)
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 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 -10: Fine, Performing and Literary Arts (A)
THDN 210 C - Dance Ethnology
(4 semester hrs.)
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 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 upon participation, assignments, a mid-term exam, and a final presentation. Through this course students are expected to develop and improve their ability to accept and appreciate different cultures other than their own.
Prerequisite: None
Fulfills Goal - 13: Non-Western Cultures (C)
THDN 213 H - Dance in the 20th Century
(4 semester hrs.)
L. Pinheiro
This course is designed for those of us who love to watch dance. We begin by looking at dance in the late 19th century, then move to an examination of modernism seen in the dances of Isadora Duncan and Martha Graham, and finally we look at the post-modernist works of Tharp and Morris. You will write short papers and reviews covering the dances on film. Assessment is based on writing assignments, exams, and class participation.
Writing Intensive
Prerequisite: None
Fulfills Goal 12: Western Historical Perspectives Learning Goal (H)
THDN 215 - Dance Kinesiology
(4 semester hrs.)
L. Pinheiro
Understanding how the human body’s anatomical aspects apply to dance training is the goal of this course. We will look at the bone and muscle structure of the human body and their relationship to dance technique, movement efficiency, and injury prevention. Dance experience is not required; however, the course is designed to address dancers’ needs and concerns. Assessment is based on tests, class participation, a research project, and reports of movement analysis.
Prerequisite: None
THDN 226 A - Improvisation
(4 semester hrs.)
C. Georges
This course introduces students to theatre improvisation, its principles, techniques, uses, and history.
Upon completion students will:
a. appreciate the art of theatre improvisation
b. understand the principles and techniques of improvisation
c. demonstrate proficiency in improvisation as a performer
d. exhibit increased self-confidence and effectiveness in oral and written communication
This course is structured primarily as a workshop; however, some sessions are discussion-centered and deal either with the subject or with students’ writing. Students are required to participate daily in class. They are required to complete various writing assignments including: lab reports, essays, reviews of literature, and a written final examination. Evaluation is based upon written assignments, three exams, and demonstrated proficiency in improvisation as a performer.
Text: Viola Spolin’s Improvisation for the Theatre
Prerequisite: None
Fulfills Goal 10: Fine, Performing, and Literary Arts (A)
Writing Intensive
Note: Daily Participation is required. Class absences will lower a student’s grade.
THDN 230 A - Stagecraft
(4 semester hrs.)
J. Humphries
This course is an introduction to the basic elements of theatre production. Primarily a laboratory
experience, students will also examine the historical development of technical conventions for the stage through lectures. The class will focus on the safe application of modern stage technology through hands-on participation. Two projects, a mid-term test, and a final comprehensive exam are required.
Prerequisite: None
Fulfills Goal - 10: Fine, Performing, and Literary Arts (A)
THDN 250 A - Child Drama
(4 semester hrs.)
C. Georges
This course introduces students to drama activities with and for children. It is designed for students who wish to work with children in drama settings such as camps, recreation centers, or theatres and for students who wish to use drama as a teaching tool in a classroom.
Upon completion of the course the student will:
a. appreciate the contribution drama can make to a child’s development and life
b. understand the history of creative drama, its principles, and techniques
c. be able to plan and conduct effective drama sessions for children of different ages and in different settings
d. be able to plan and conduct effective lessons in which drama is used as a teaching tool
The course will have lecture, discussion, and laboratory sessions. Laboratory sessions will include participating in drama activities with fellow students and conducting drama workshops with school children. Students will be required to complete weekly exercises/projects based upon the text and a culminating project. The culminating project will consist of developing: a) an exemplary subject or theme-based drama workshop session; or b) an exemplary lesson using drama as a teaching tool. Students will lead laboratory sessions and write critiques of these sessions. Assessment will be based upon the portfolio of work the student created throughout the term, the culminating project, and his or her demonstrated skill as a workshop leader.
Texts: Ruth Beall Heinig’s Creative Drama for the Classroom Teacher
Prerequisite: None
Fulfills Goal 10 : Fine, Performing, and Literary Arts (A)
THDN 322 - Advanced Acting
(4 semester hrs.)
S. Reynolds
We will continue to do scene work, a book review, character notebooks, and a final monologue. Additional work will include further text analysis and in-depth character study of period plays. Acting II students will be asked to re-examine their own strengths and weaknesses as they continue to develop their acting craft.
Prerequisite: THDN 220
