THDN 120 A 01 Art of the Theatre
4 Semester Hours
Humphries, Jimmy
Description: 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 two productions. Four projects, four tests, one critical essay, and one final exam will be required.
THDN 120 A 02 Art of the Theatre
4 Semester Hours
Georges, Corwin
Description: The goal of this course is to provide you with an overview of the theatre that will enhance your appreciation of this art either as audience member or participant. This class will consider the origin and development of the theatre, the roles theatre plays in our society, and the crafts of the theatre (acting, directing, design, etc). Readings include contemporary plays and a text. Class periods will include discussions, lectures, participatory activities, and attending performances. Evaluation will be based on three exams, a research or creative project, and a number of brief reaction papers, reviews, projects and essays.
THDN 200 01 Topics: Motif
2 Semester Hours
Pinheiro, Ligia
Description: In this course students will explore the creative potential of motif description- a way of recording movement by use of symbols, derived from Laban’s system of dance notation. Concepts will be introduced through movement improvisation and the exploration of different movement approaches. Students will also learn the basics of the computer program Laban Writer. Assessment will be based on tests, assignments, and a final project.
THDN 200 02 Topics: Working in the Theatre
1 Semester Hour
Morgan, Ed
Description: This course will cover the following topics: auditioning (monologues and cold readings), working with directors, life in regional theatres, and the business of theatre. The course will meet on Mondays and Wednesdays from 3:30 – 5:00 p.m. from January 16 through February 8.
THDN 211 A Dance Composition
4 Semester Hours
Li Chang, Shih-Ming
Description: The Dance Composition course focuses on the development and presentation of choreography. Improvisation techniques and authentic movement will be incorporated throughout the semester. Improvisation, musical improvisation, and improvisation with props will be included. The 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 a final project.
THDN 213 H Dance in the 20 th Century
4 Semester Hours
Pinheiro, Ligia
Description: This course is designed for those of us who love to watch dance. We begin by looking at dance in the late 19 th 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.
THDN 226 A Improvisation
4 Semester Hours
Georges, Corwin
Description: This course introduces students to theatre improvisation, its principles, techniques, uses, and history. Upon completion students will:
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. Writing Intensive.
THDN 230 A Stagecraft
4 Semester Hours
Humphries, Jimmy
Description: 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, attendance at main stage productions, and a final comprehensive exam are required.
THDN 240 A Playwriting
4 Semester Hours
Reynolds, Steve
Description: This course will be conducted in workshop fashion. The goal is for each student to write a one-act play and then rewrite it two or three times after having it read and critiqued in class. Playwrights will not be asked to act in their own plays. Other students will act, allowing playwrights the opportunity to concentrate on learning the craft of writing and the craft of working with actors. In addition, outside readings of plays, in class writing assignments, lectures on dramatic action, and conferences with the instructor and fellow playwrights will be a part of the course. Writing Intensive.
THDN 260 H History of European Theatre
4 Semester Hours
Georges, Corwin
Description: Beginning with the Greeks, this course will provide an overview of the history of European Theatre. It will consider the dramatic literature, theories and practices of theatre during the great ages of Western theatre. During the semester we will look at the evolution of acting, directing, playwriting, theatre design, and theatre architecture. Throughout the course we will study the relationship between theatre and society. Course requirements include exams and a research project.
THDN 400 Topics: Senior Seminar
2 semester Hours
Reynolds, Steve
Prerequisite: Senior Class Standing
Description: This course is for senior Theatre majors only. We will look at major plays and playwrights and prepare for Senior Swan Song.
