Course Descriptions
Spring 2007
THDN 120 A – Art of 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 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.
THDN 200 – Topics: Dance Elements
2 Semester Hours
Pinheiro, Ligia
Prerequisite: Some dance or movement experience.
In this course students will learn the basic elements of dance, that combined in different ways make the different dance styles. By using the Laban system of movement observation, students will be able to identify characteristics that are common to all dance genres. Assessment is based on class participation, two tests, and a final movement project with a written component. Time outside of class to develop individual and group movement studies will be required.
THDN 211 A – Dance Composition
4 Semester Hours
Li Chang, Shih-Ming
Prerequisite: None
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 215 – Dance Kinesiology
4 Semester Hours
Pinheiro, Ligia
Prerequisite: None
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.
THDN 226 A – Improvisation
4 Semester Hours
Georges, Corwin
Prerequisite: None
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.
THDN 230 A – Stagecraft
4 Semester Hours
Humphries, Jimmy
Prerequisite: None
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.
THDN 250 A – Child Drama
4 Semester Hours
Georges, Corwin
Prerequisite: None
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.
THDN 322 – Advanced Acting
4 Semester Hours
Reynolds, Steve
Prerequisite: THDN 220
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.
THDN 400 Topics: Senior Seminar
2 Semester Hours
Reynolds, Steve
Prerequisite: Senior Class Standing
This course is for senior Theatre majors only. We will look at major plays and playwrights and prepare for Senior Swan Song.
