DEPARTMENT OF THEATER AND DANCE
Course Descriptions
Spring 2010
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. Four projects, four tests, one critical essay, attendance at mainstage productions, and one final exam are required.
THDN 200A Topics: Elements of Dance
4 Semester Hours
Pinheiro, Ligia
Prerequisite: Some dance movement 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 211A Dance Composition
4 Semester Hours
Chang, Shih-Ming Li
Prerequisite: 030P or permission of instructor
The dance composition course focuses on the development and presentation of choreography. Improvisation, authentic movement study, journal writing, class discussion, and composition exercises will be incorporated throughout the semester. The course will cover introduction to movement vocabulary, the language of dance, creating movement phrases, and the crafting of choreography. All students are expected to explore new movement ideas physically in each class. Assessment will be based on class participation, completion of assignments, and a final project.
THDN 213H 1W Dance in the 20th Century
4 Semester Hours
Pinheiro, Ligia
Prerequisite: None
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 Twyla Tharp and Mark 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 226A 1W Improvisation
4 Semester Hours
Georges, Corwin
Prerequisite: None
This course introduces students to theatre improvisation, its principles, techniques, uses, and history. Upon completion of the course the 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 on written assignments, three exams, and demonstrated proficiency in improvisation as a performer. Text: Viola Spolin’s Improvisation for the Theater. Writing Intensive.
THDN 230A 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 240A 1W Playwriting
4 Semester Hours
Reynolds, Steve
Prerequisite: None
This course will be conducted in workshop fashion. The goal is for each student to write a ten minute and 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 read 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 weekly conferences with the instructor and fellow playwrights will be a part of the course. Writing Intensive.
THDN 260H History of European Theatre
4 Semester Hours
Reynolds, Steve
Prerequisite: None
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 401 Topics: Senior Seminar
2 Semester Hours
Reynolds, Steve
Prerequisite: Senior Class Standing
This class is for senior Theatre majors only. We will look at major plays and playwrights and prepare for the Senior Swan Song.
