THDN 112A - 1W Dance in Popular Culture
4 Semester Hours
Pinheiro, Ligia
Prerequisite: None
What do A Chorus Line, Fred Astaire, a Madonna video, and many television commercials have in common? All of them make use of American show dance. This class attempts to sharpen your interpretive, descriptive, and evaluative skills as you watch tap, jazz, ballroom, MTV, and musical theatre dance. Assessment is based on class assignments and class participation. Writing Intensive.
THDN 120A 01 Art of the Theatre
4 Semester Hours
Staff
Prerequisite: None
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 an 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 plays and a text. Class periods will include discussions, lectures, participatory activities, and attending performances.
THDN 120A 02 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 one main stage production, and one final exam are required.
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 dances. Through the understanding of the basic elements of time, space, and movement quality, the course will help students develop the ability to analyze 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 midterm, a final exam, and a presentation.
THDN 215N 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 structures 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 project, and in-class assignments.
THDN 222A Acting I
4 Semester Hours
Staff
Prerequisite: None
This course assumes no previous experience with the craft of acting. Acting I introduces the student to acting fundamentals through exercises, scene work, improvisations, character analysis, and a final monologue.
THDN 234 Costume and Make-up Design
2 Semester Hours
Humphries, Jimmy
Prerequisite: THDN 230 or permission of the instructor
The student will become familiar with current professional standards for creating a costume design from concept to performance. Class will focus on the development of a complete production costume plot. The assignments will cover period fashion history, methods of research, and rendering techniques in various media. Students will explore the different areas of make-up design including prosthetic appliances. Grades will be based on the assessment of two major projects and a final exam.
THDN 235 Stage Management
2 Semester Hours
Humphries, Jimmy
Prerequisite: THDN 230 or permission of the instructor
The class will focus primarily on the development of skills necessary to administer and supervise the production process from audition to performance and strike. This course will explore the qualities needed in a position of such authority and responsibility. Crisis control and personnel management are just two of the challenges that the modern stage manager faces in production. Students will learn how to apply leadership skills to ensure professional results. Grades will be based on an assessment of one major project and two exams.
THDN 300 Directing I
4 Semester Hours
Georges, Corwin
Prerequisite: THDN 222 and THDN 230
This course studies the art of play production for proscenium, thrust, and central stages. Basic fundamentals such as script analysis, composition, picturization, movement, and rhythm are considered. Production procedures related to auditions, casting, and rehearsals are studied. 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 400 Senior Seminar I
2 Semester Hours
Staff
Prerequisite: For Theatre majors only
We will concentrate on career development. Each senior will create a portfolio consisting of projects in design, acting, criticism, or directing based on his or her interests. In addition, we will explore major styles and playwrights that have not yet been covered in other courses.
