THDN 120A Art of the Theatre
4 Semester Hours
Humphries, Jimmy
Prerequisite: None
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 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 report are required.
THDN 120A Art of the Theatre
4 Semester Hours
Reynolds, Steve
Prerequisite: None
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 part of our culture. During the term there will be three exams, two theatre reviews, a field trip, and a final project. Also, we will read plays and see all Wittenberg theatre productions.
THDN 210C Dance Ethnology
4 Semester Hours
Chang, Shih-Ming Li
Prerequisite: None
The purpose of this course is to provide knowledge and understanding of different cultures around the world by comparing and analyzing the differences of their folk dances. Students will develop the ability to analyze different styles, forms, and functions of dances of different countries and cultures through the understanding of basic dance elements of time, space, and movement quality. The course format includes video viewing, lecture/discussion, a mid-term exam, and a final presentation. Through this course students are expected to develop and improve their ability to accept and appreciate cultures other than their own.
THDN 213H Dance in the Twentieth Century
4 Semester Hours
Staff
Prerequisite: None
This course is designed for those who love to watch dance. We begin by looking at the late 19 th century, then move to an examination of modernism seen in the dances of Isadora Duncan and Martha Graham; finally we look at the post-modernist works of Tharp and Morris. The students will write short papers and reviews covering the dances on film. Assessment is based on writing assignments, exams, and class participation.
Additional Notes: Writing intensive
THDN 222A Acting I
4 Semester Hours
Reynolds, Steve
Prerequisite: None
This course assumesno previous experience with the craft of acting. Working fromthe foundation of the Stanislavsky system as interpreted by the Chubbuck Technique, 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.
THDN 231 Stage Design
4 Semester Hours
Humphries, Jimmy
Prerequisite: THDN 230
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 complete four projects.
THDN 270A Contemporary American Drama
4 Semester Hours
Reynolds, Steve
Prerequisite: None
This course will investigate the dramatic literature produced by American theatres. We will read 20 plays from the current repertoire including work by Arthur Miller, Tennessee Williams, Eugene O’Neill, August Wilson, Craig Lucas, Paula Vogel, Suzan Lori Parks, 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.
THDN 300 Directing I
4 Semester Hours
Georges, Corwin
Prerequisite: THDN 222
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 studied. 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 directorial work, examinations, and other assignments.
THDN Senior Seminar
4 Semester Hours
Humphries, Jimmy
Prerequisite: for Theatre majors only.
We will concentrate on career development. Each senior will create a portfolio consisting of projects in design, acting, criticism, and directing. Analysis papers will also be expected.
