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Theatre Arts Courses

The 101 Introduction to the Theatre (3 cr)

The 103 Theatre Technology I (4 cr)

The 104 Theatre Technology II (4 cr)

The 105 Basics of Performance (3 cr)

The 106 Basics of Performance (3 cr)

The 110 Convocation (1 cr, max arr)

The 125 Summer Theatre I (2-4 cr, max 4)

The 200 (s) Seminar (cr arr)

The 201 Scene Design I (3 cr)

The 202 Costume Design I (3 cr)

The 203 (s) Workshop (cr arr)

The 204 (s) Special Topics (cr arr)

The 205 Lighting Design I (3 cr)

The 206 Theatrical Makeup (1 cr)

The 221 History of World Cinema I (3 cr)

The 222 History of World Cinema II (3 cr)

The 299 (s) Directed Study (cr arr)

The 305 Intermediate Acting (3 cr)

The 306 Intermediate Acting (3 cr)

The 307 Advanced Theatrical Makeup (3 cr) (The 207)

The 311 Pattern Development (3 cr, max arr.)

The 320 Theatre Management (2 cr)

The 361 Technical Direction (3 cr)

The 371 Play Analysis (3 cr)

The 386 Documentary Film (3 cr)

The 390 (s) Theatre Practice (cr arr)

The 395 Summer Theatre II (2-8 cr, max 8)

The 400 (s) Seminar (cr arr)

The 403 (s) Workshop (cr arr)

The 404 (s) Special Topics (cr arr)

The 405 Individual Instruction in Performance (cr arr)

The 406 Design Studio (cr arr)

The J410/J510 Costume Design II (3 cr, max 12)

The 411 Theatre Methods (1 cr)

The J417/J517 Movement Studio (3 cr, max 18)

The J418/J518 Voice Studio (3 cr, max 18)

The J421/J521 Advanced Theatre Management (3 cr)

The J425/J525 BFA Acting Studio (3 cr, max arr)

The J440/J540 Playwriting (3 cr)

The J445/J545 Film & Theatre of the Holocaust (3 cr)

The 451 Nonverbal Communication (3 cr)

The 463 Advanced Costume Technology (3 cr, max arr)

The 464 Scenographic Techniques (3 cr)

The 465 Advanced Scene Design (3 cr)

The 466 Scene Painting (3 cr)

The J467/J567 Asian Theatre History (3 cr)

The 468 Theatre History I (3 cr)

The 469 Theatre History II (3 cr)

The J471 /J571 Directing (3 cr)

The J472/ J572 Directing (3 cr)

The 473 Senior Capstone Seminar (1 cr)

The 483 Senior Capstone Project (1 cr)

The J484/J584 Advanced Stage Lighting (3 cr, Max 12)

The 498 (s) Internship (cr arr).

The 499 (s) Directed Study (cr arr)

The 501 (s) Seminar (cr arr)

The 502 (s) Directed Study (cr arr)

The 503 (s) Workshop (cr arr)

The 504 (s) Special Topics (cr arr)

The 510 Costume Design II (3 cr, max 12)

The 512 (s) MFA Directing Studio (3 cr, max 18)

The 513 (s) MFA Design Studio (2 cr, max 18)

The 514 (s) MFA Production Studio (2 cr, max 18)

The 515 MFA Jury/Portfolio Review (1 cr, max arr)

The 516 MFA Graduate Seminar (3 cr, max arr)

The 517 Movement Studio (3 cr, max 18)

The 518 Voice Studio (3 cr, max 18)

The 521 Advanced Theatre Management (3 cr)

The 525 MFA Acting Studio (3 cr, max arr)

The 526 MFA Writers Studio (3 cr, max 18)

The 535 Production Design (3 cr, max 12)

The 540 Playwriting (3 cr)

The 541 Foundations of Screenwriting (3 cr)

The 545 Film & Theatre of the Holocaust (3 cr)

The 567 Asian Theatre History (3 cr)

The 571-572 Directing (3 cr)

The 584 Advanced Stage Lighting (3 cr)

The 595 Professional Off-Campus Studio (3 cr, max 18)

The 596 MFA Exit Project (3 cr)

The 597 (s) Practicum (cr arr)

The 598 (s) Internship (cr arr)

The 599 (s) Non-thesis Master's Research (cr arr)

Dean Panttaja, Dept. Chair, Dept. of Theatre Arts (204 Shoup Hall 83844-2008; phone 208/885-6465).

The 101 Introduction to the Theatre (3 cr)

May be used as core credit in J-3-d. For nonmajors. Building an appreciation for theatre as an art form through understanding the creative process of the playwright, the director, the designer, and the actor. Attendance at theatre productions reqd.

The 103 Theatre Technology I (4 cr)

Intro to theatre production spaces, shop tools, construction materials, and stage equipment; theories and methods used in lighting and in the construction of scenery. Three lec and six hrs of lab a wk.

The 104 Theatre Technology II (4 cr)

Methods of costume construction techniques; intro to masks, sewing, millinery, and costume craft skills. Three lec and six hrs of lab a wk.

The 105 Basics of Performance (3 cr)

Intro to performance; techniques of relaxation, observation, and justification; work in improvisation, sensory exploration, image-making, and beginning textual analysis; initial monologue and scene performance. One lec and 2 hrs of lab a wk.

The 106 Basics of Performance (3 cr)

Intro to performance; techniques of relaxation, observation, and justification; work in improvisation, sensory exploration, image-making, and beginning textual analysis; initial monologue and scene performance. One lec and 2 hrs of lab a wk.

Prereq: The 105 or Permission

The 110 Convocation (1 cr, max arr)

One 1-hr weekly seminar discussing performance and production techniques, process and activities.

The 125 Summer Theatre I (2-4 cr, max 4)

Theatre production, including public presentation of several plays. Max 10 cr in The 125 and 395 combined.

Prereq: Permission of department

The 200 (s) Seminar (cr arr)

The 201 Scene Design I (3 cr)

Development of basic skills in visualization, period research, graphic techniques, and script interpretation in scenery.

The 202 Costume Design I (3 cr)

Costume design skills including script/character analysis, fabric choices, design process, period research, and drawing/painting skills.

The 203 (s) Workshop (cr arr)

The 204 (s) Special Topics (cr arr)

The 205 Lighting Design I (3 cr)

Basic equipment, lighting methods, and theory for theatrical production; basic drafting of realized and hypothetical productions.

The 206 Theatrical Makeup (1 cr)

Practical application techniques for basic contour and old age makeup for the theatre. Limited to 20 students. 2 hrs of lab a wk.

Prereq: Theatre Major or Minor

The 221 History of World Cinema I (3 cr)

May be used as core credit in J-3-d. Introduction to film history; a comprehensive survey of the major film movements from the birth of the cinema to the mid 20th Century.

The 222 History of World Cinema II (3 cr)

May be used as core credit in J-3-d. Introduction to modern film history; a comprehensive survey of the major film movements from the mid 20th Century to the contemporary cinematic scene.

The 299 (s) Directed Study (cr arr)

The 305 Intermediate Acting (3 cr)

Exploration of Stanislavsky System focused in work on sense and emotional memory, inner monologue, and imagery techniques; emphasis on group improvisation and theatre games; work in action and scene study; performances of selected scenes and monodramas. One lec and 3 hrs of lab a wk.

Prereq: The 105-106

The 306 Intermediate Acting (3 cr)

Studies in American method acting as exemplified by its leading practitioners (Strasberg, Hagen, and Meisner); textual analysis and individual acting problems; continuing emphasis in scene preparation. One lec and 3 hrs of lab a wk. Recommended Preparation: The 305.

The 307 Advanced Theatrical Makeup (3 cr) (The 207)

Theatrical makeup application (advanced techniques), makeup design process and visual communication tools, prosthetics, mask making, wigs and facial hair appliances.

Prereq: The 206 or Permission

The 311 Pattern Development (3 cr, max arr.)

Patterning and draping techniques for stage costume and apparel construction. May be repeated for course credit. (Fall, Alt/yrs)

Prereq: The 104

The 320 Theatre Management (2 cr)

Exploration of stage management and standard management practices relating to theatre production and business, funding, and public relations.

The 361 Technical Direction (3 cr)

Technical direction and planning for single and multiple set theatre productions; includes shop and personnel management techniques, drafting, budgets, scheduling, and organization.

The 371 Play Analysis (3 cr)

Critical intro to plays as drama and theatre; an approach to tragic and comic genres; major dramatists of the 20th century culminating in an analysis of contemporary theatre styles.

The 386 Documentary Film (3 cr)

May be used as core credit in J-3-d. An examination of the historical development of nonfiction film. Study of documentary style and form, a consideration of social issues raised by documentary, and a survey of significant practitioners and theorists of documentary film.

The 390 (s) Theatre Practice (cr arr)

Open to nonmajors. Practical experience in all aspects of theatre production and performance.

The 395 Summer Theatre II (2-8 cr, max 8)

Continuation of The 125. Max 10 cr in The 125 and 395 combined.

Prereq: Permission of department

The 400 (s) Seminar (cr arr)

The 403 (s) Workshop (cr arr)

The 404 (s) Special Topics (cr arr)

The 405 Individual Instruction in Performance (cr arr)

Individualized coaching in performance. One hr of lab a wk per cr.

Prereq: Permission of department

The 406 Design Studio (cr arr)

Advanced design studio.

Prereq: The 201, 202, and 205; or Permission

The J410/J510 Costume Design II (3 cr, max 12)

Emphasis on developing characterization, stylization, and fabric choice; explore advanced rendering techniques; continuation of portfolio development. Additional projects/assignments reqd for grad cr. Three lec and 1 hr of lab a wk.

Prereq: The 202 or Permission

The 411 Theatre Methods (1 cr)

Students learn ways of introducing drama to the classroom in a variety of unique teaching methodologies, including improvisation, role-playing, theatre games and scripted materials.

The J417/J517 Movement Studio (3 cr, max 18)

Emphasizes body awareness utilizing yoga and related techniques to increase strength and flexibility, heighten sensory awareness, generate dynamic energy, and mind/body connections. Students are encouraged to explore the creative boundaries of their body and discover the body's effectiveness as a primary expressive tool in performance. Students earning graduate credit will be held to a higher standard.

Prereq: Acceptance into B.F.A./M.F.A. program or Permission

The J418/J518 Voice Studio (3 cr, max 18)

Focuses on techniques of vocal production designed to open, free and energize the voice/body and to promote full and supported breathing. Emphasis on breath control, meditation and visualization techniques, vocal warm-ups, and their application to performance. Students earning graduate credit will be held to a higher standard.

Prereq: Acceptance into B.F.A./M.F.A. program or Permission

The J421/J521 Advanced Theatre Management (3 cr)

Studies in advanced computer application, people skills, and theatre management techniques. Specific emphasis on Actors Equity rules and regulations, professional production models, production management, and artistic direction. Additional projects/assignments required for graduate credit.

Prereq: The 320

The J425/J525 BFA Acting Studio (3 cr, max arr)

Rigorous study and practice in performance. Areas of specialization may include: Shakespeare, Devising, Commedia del'arte, Period Styles, Asian Theatre, Animals, Realism, Comedy. The course will be repeated each semester by BFA candidates.

Prereq for 425: Acceptance into BFA program

Prereq for 525: Acceptance into MFA program

The J440/J540 Playwriting (3 cr)

Introduce the student to the fundamental elements of playwriting, including dramatic structure and action, developing theme and characterization, understanding stagecraft and writing dialogue.

The J445/J545 Film & Theatre of the Holocaust (3 cr)

This course studies the plays and films of the Holocaust examining the unique relationship between historical fact and the artist's response to the impact of those facts on the human character. The course treats the films and dramatic literature of the Holocaust as a unique genre of "survivalist" literature of atrocity, which is as much a response to one of history's darkest periods as it is an emergence of a new artistic form. Additional projects/assignments required for graduate credit.

The 451 Nonverbal Communication (3 cr)

See Comm 421.

The 463 Advanced Costume Technology (3 cr, max arr)

Advanced theatrical costume construction techniques and strategies, including: tailoring, costume crafts and period undergarment construction. Materials selection and handling. May be repeated for course credit. Recommended Preparation: The 311. (Fall, Alt/yrs.)

Prereq: The 104 or Permission

The 464 Scenographic Techniques (3 cr)

Practical survey of graphics used in design and execution of scenery for the stage, including drafting, perspective, front and rear elevations, painters elevations, and properties design and drafting. Four hrs of lab a wk.

The 465 Advanced Scene Design (3 cr)

Development of a conceptual approach to design through assorted design projects. Recommended Preparation: The 464.

The 466 Scene Painting (3 cr)

Introduction to the art, practice and technique of large-scale decorative painting for the stage. Development of brush and application techniques, color mixing, and layout skills. Provides instruction in the imitation of wood, marble, brick and stone, as well as sections on stenciling, faux finishing and trompe l'oiel. (Fall only)

Prereq: The 201 or Permission

The J467/J567 Asian Theatre History (3 cr)

The 467 only: May be used as core credit in J-3-d. This historical survey examines the structure and form of traditional Asian theatre, viewed within the religious, sociological and aesthetic contexts of the culture. Theatre, dance, puppetry and mask performances of India, Indonesia, China and Japan will form the basis of our examination. Additional projects/assignments required for graduate credit. (Alt/yrs)

The 468 Theatre History I (3 cr)

May be used as core credit in J-3-d. The comprehensive survey of the major theatrical trends, theorists, and practitioners from the Golden Age of Greece until the early 19th Century.

The 469 Theatre History II (3 cr)

May be used as core credit in J-3-d. The comprehensive survey of the major theatrical trends, theorists, and practitioners from 1875 to the present contemporary theatre scene. Recommended Preparation: The 371.

The J471 /J571 Directing (3 cr)

Preparation of a play from casting to performance. Additional projects/assignments required for graduate credit. Three lec and one hr of lab a wk. Recommended Preparation: The 305.

The J472/ J572 Directing (3 cr)

Staging and interpretation of a play; developing a production concept; coaching actors. Additional projects/assignments required for graduate credit. Three lec and one hr of lab a wk. Recommended Preparation: Upper-division acting course at 300/400 level.

The 473 Senior Capstone Seminar (1 cr)

The first part of a year-long capstone class for graduating theatre majors that requires students to synthesize their experiences in dramatic theory, literature, theatre performance, and production. Seminar students prepare a service learning project and a portfolio presentation that summarizes their experience and their current vision of the theatre. The class also includes a component in resume preparation and professional presentation.

The 483 Senior Capstone Project (1 cr)

The second part of a year-long capstone class for graduating theatre majors that requires students to synthesize their experiences in dramatic theory, literature, theatre performance, and production. Seminar students prepare a service learning project and a portfolio presentation that summarizes their experience and their current vision of the theatre. The class also includes a component in resume preparation and professional presentation.

The J484/J584 Advanced Stage Lighting (3 cr, Max 12)

Advanced lighting design theories and practice through design of assorted productions in realistic drama, dance, arena, thrust, and mystical theatre. Additional projects/assignments required for graduate credit. Recommended Preparation: The 205.

The 498 (s) Internship (cr arr).

The 499 (s) Directed Study (cr arr)

The 501 (s) Seminar (cr arr)

The 502 (s) Directed Study (cr arr)

The 503 (s) Workshop (cr arr)

The 504 (s) Special Topics (cr arr)

The 510 Costume Design II (3 cr, max 12)

See The J410/J510.

The 512 (s) MFA Directing Studio (3 cr, max 18)

Advanced individual study in directing, including work in staging, styles, and interpretation.

The 513 (s) MFA Design Studio (2 cr, max 18)

Advanced individual study in all areas of theatrical design with emphasis on portfolio development. One lec and 2 hrs of lab a wk.

The 514 (s) MFA Production Studio (2 cr, max 18)

Advanced individual study in all areas of technical theatre production and management with emphasis on portfolio development. One lec and 2 hrs of lab a wk.

The 515 MFA Jury/Portfolio Review (1 cr, max arr)

Preparation and evaluation of performance monologues and design portfolios.

Coreq: MFA studio courses

The 516 MFA Graduate Seminar (3 cr, max arr)

An in-depth, rigorous, exploration of theatrical research and collaboration pedagogy and methodologies within the larger context of the artistic, creative process. Course may be repeated.

Prereq: Acceptance into MFA program

The 517 Movement Studio (3 cr, max 18)

See The J417/J517.

The 518 Voice Studio (3 cr, max 18)

See The J418/J518.

The 521 Advanced Theatre Management (3 cr)

See The J421/J521.

The 525 MFA Acting Studio (3 cr, max arr)

See The J425/J525.

The 526 MFA Writers Studio (3 cr, max 18)

The primary goal of the MFA Writers Studio is to help the writers develop their unique voice and vision; understand the role of the writer within a historical, cultural and political context; and expose them to a variety of styles and approaches to creating new work for both stage and screen. Toward that end, the Writer's Studio fosters a safe but challenging creative environment, in which writers are presented with assignments designed to help them identify that set of aesthetic concerns which will form the foundation of their Voice and Style as a writer. MFA candidates in Dramatic Writing enroll in this course each semester they are in the program.

The 535 Production Design (3 cr, max 12)

Design responsibility for a mainstage production.

Prereq: Permission of department

The 540 Playwriting (3 cr)

See The J440/J540.

The 541 Foundations of Screenwriting (3 cr)

Introduction to the fundamental elements of screenwriting; techniques of developing story lines and advancing a narrative in a visual way using the industry standard of a tightly structured long-form feature film.

Prereq: Permission

The 545 Film & Theatre of the Holocaust (3 cr)

See The J445/J545.

The 567 Asian Theatre History (3 cr)

See The J467/J567.

The 571-572 Directing (3 cr)

See The J471-J472/J571-J572.

The 584 Advanced Stage Lighting (3 cr)

See The J484/J584.

The 595 Professional Off-Campus Studio (3 cr, max 18)

This is a studio course designed for professional off-campus graduate students only. The course is composed of one on one mentoring for off-campus projects.

Prereq: Permission

The 596 MFA Exit Project (3 cr)

Culminating creative project for MFA candidates.

Prereq: Permission of department

The 597 (s) Practicum (cr arr)

The 598 (s) Internship (cr arr)

The 599 (s) Non-thesis Master's Research (cr arr)

Research not directly related to a thesis or dissertation.

Prereq: Permission