2004 - 2005 Theatre Course Descriptions

THTR

124

Survey of the Theatre, LE

(2)

A survey course to introduce the student to an appreciation of live theatre. Supplemented by historical perspectives and readings/viewings of representative plays, the student builds a basis for solid criticism through the study of the philosophies, principles, and practices of theatrical productions.

THTR

127

Stagecraft, LE

(2)

An introduction to the basic theories and techniques of stage scenery and lighting. Practice in construction of sets and properties, scene painting, and stage lighting. Additional lab work on campus productions is required.

THTR

129

Costumes and Makeup

(2)

Theory and techniques of stage costuming and theatrical makeup. Practice in costume construction and design, wardrobe maintenance, and stage makeup techniques. Offered alternate years.

THTR

180

Acting I,LE

(2)

A study of basic acting techniques including movement for actors, voice production, improvisation, monologues, and scene study. Offered Fall Semester.

THTR

200/300

Special Topics in Theatre Arts

(1-4)

A changing topics course offering special areas of interest not covered in regular courses. Topics include Theatre Management, Reader's Theatre, Modern Dance, special focus on particular styles of theatre or dramatic literature as well as travel/study programs.

THTR

200FN

Fine Arts Foundation Course: Experiencing the Arts, LE

(4)

This course is an experiential exploration of the major art traditions of our culture. It takes the form of attendance at several different types of artistic events combined with previews and discussion regarding those events. Lectures and other types of presentations are offered by guests from on and off campus, including local artists and performers. Of the course's four credits, three are spent in class per week and one is used for event attendance.

THTR

228

Beginning Theatre Workshop

(2)

Student involvement in Westminster Players' productions, either as performers or as technicians. An audition is required for enrollment as a performer.

THTR

321

Creative Writing: Plays

(3)

Workshop in playwriting which examines structure and style in dramatic literature as a starting point for student's work in scene writing. Offered alternate years. Prerequisite: ENGL 220 or equivalent.

THTR

327

Advanced Acting Workshop

(1-4)

Advanced study of acting techniques through participation in on-campus productions. Prerequisites: THTR 180, 228 or equivalent, and audition. This course can be repeated for credit.

THTR

328

Advanced Workshop in Technical Theatre

(1-4)

Advanced work in technical theatre or stage management through participation in on-campus productions. Prerequisite: THTR 228 or equivalent, and consent of instructor. This course can be repeated for credit.

THTR

350

Creative Dramatics

(2)

A class for elementary and secondary education majors and other interested theatre students that covers theoretical and practical techniques for using theatre in the classroom. Topics covered include creative dramatics and improvisation for children, integrating theatre techniques into the regular curriculum, and the basics of children's theatre production. Offered alternate years.

THTR

358

History of Theatre and Dramatic Literature I

(3)

Study of the history of theatre and dramatic literature from its origins through the eighteenth century. Prerequisite: ENGL 220 or equivalent. Offered alternate years.

THTR

359

History of Theatre and Dramatic Literature II

(3)

Study of the history of theatre and dramatic literature from 1800 to the present. Prerequisite: ENGL 220 or equivalent. Offered alternate years.

THTR

360

Design for the Theatre

(3)

Examines design concepts in terms of theatrical production. Script analysis for the design of sets, costumes, and lighting design are studied. Offered alternate years.

THTR

370

Directing

(3)

Study of the theories and practices of staging plays for the theatre. Includes script analysis, production planning, rehearsal techniques, stage composition, and designer/director communication. Each student directs a one-act play for public performance. Prerequisite: THTR 127, 129, 180 and 228, or consent of instructor.

THTR

381

Acting II

(3)

An advanced course in acting with focus on scene study and characterization. Prerequisite: THTR 180 or consent of instructor.

THTR

382

Methods of Teaching Theatre in the Secondary Schools

(2)

Preparation for secondary education minors to teach theatre. Includes methods in teaching acting, stagecraft, oral interpretation, and dramatic literature. Prepares students to coach for competition and to produce plays in an educational setting. Prerequisites: admission to the Education Program and completion of SPCH 220; THTR 127, 129, 180, 350, 358, 359, and 370.

THTR

401

Directed Studies in Theatre Arts

(1-4)

A tutorial-based course used only for student-initiated proposals for intensive individual study of topics not otherwise offered in the Theatre Arts Program. Prerequisite: consent of instructor and school dean.

THTR

440

Internship

(1-8)

Offers students the opportunity to integrate classroom knowledge with practical experience. Prerequisites: junior or senior standing (for transfer students, at least 15 hours completed at Westminster), minimum 2.5 GPA, completion of the Career Resource Center Internship Workshop, and consent of program director and Career Center Internship Coordinator.

THTR

490

Senior Theatre Project

(3)

Capstone course for theatre majors or minors which provides opportunities for students to demonstrate the integration of their academic studies and their theatre skills. In consultation with the theatre faculty, students complete a project such as directing or designing a full-length production, writing a full-length play, or preparing a research paper. Prerequisites: senior standing, completion of courses as determined by project and faculty advisor, consent of faculty.