Theatre (THR*)

THR*101, Introduction to Theatre (3 credits)
Gen Ed Competencies: Aesthetic Dimensions, Historical Knowledge
This course is designed to introduce students to the world of theater as an expressive and collaborative art form. Students will have the opportunity to develop an appreciation and understanding of theater from its origin to the present day. Areas of study will include: theater history, genres and styles, the study of plays, stage terminology, acting, theater production, and theater as a profession. While not designed as an “acting” course, some in-class performance work may be included. Students will view recorded versions of plays during class. Attending at least one live theater performance will be required. Prerequisite: Either ENG*101ALP, ENG*101E, or 
ENG*101(Updated November 2014)

THR*102, Theatre History (3 credits)
Gen Ed Competencies: Aesthetic Dimensions, Historical Knowledge

This survey course provides students with an opportunity to learn about the rich history of the theatre—from the early elements of drama to the Restoration period. The course considers how drama (plays) and theatre (performance elements) create cultural experiences that reflect the community; motivate dialogue between people within a community; and inspire conversations across societies and cultures. The course is anchored by key dramatic literature; and the course asks students to read and gather an understanding about these plays to make connections between the past and present.(New course, Spring 2018)

THR*110, Acting I (3 credits)
Gen Ed Competencies: Aesthetic DimensionsCreativity
An introduction to the art of acting. This experiential course emphasizes the fundamental tools of the actor including use of voice and body, development of the imagination, creative interpretation, characterization, improvisation, and script analysis. Through both individual and group exercises, students will gain knowledge of different acting styles as well as study and perform scripts. (Updated April 2018)

COM*179/THR*113, Performance for Film and Television (3 credits)
Gen Ed Competencies: Aesthetic DimensionsCreativity
This course will develop performance and acting skills used in radio,television, and film including voice-over techniques, television news reporting and anchoring, dramatic acting, and comedic performance. Skills include voice articulation, projection and inflection, script analysis and interpretation. Students will analyze scripts and develop characters to improve acting and directing techniques and understand the importance of subtext to scenes. Students perform using microphones, teleprompters, lighting, and cameras. This course is designed for students interested in on-screen performance across a range of media as well as those interested in film and television directing and production. (Updated April 2018)

THR*121, Plays in Production I (3 credits)
Gen Ed Competencies: Aesthetic DimensionsCreativity
Practicum emphasizing acting techniques and theatre production. This course prepares students for acting in more developed roles and incorporates practical aspects of theatre production concluding with the performance of a play in front of an audience. Acting roles are determined by audition. Prerequisite: THR*110.  (Updated July 2019)

THR*210, Acting II  (3 credits)
Gen Ed Competencies: Aesthetic DimensionsCreativity
Acting II emphasizes advanced acting techniques and theatre production. This course prepares students for acting in more developed roles and incorporates practical aspects of theatre production concluding with the performance of a play in front of an audience. Acting roles are determined by audition, and each student will create, rehearse, and develop and acting role as well as take on other production responsibilities. Prerequisite: THR*110.  (Updated July 2019)

THR*298 Special Topics – Theatre Practicum (3 credits)
An in depth exploration of a specialized topic in Theatre.