Catalog of Courses for Drama
This course is designed as an introduction to movement practices for students of all backgrounds and skill levels. Students will work on dynamic alignment, as well as spatial, sensory, and bodily awareness. Through movement prompts, improvisation, and learned combinations students will be challenged to expand movement vocabulary while also increasing range of motion, strength, flexibility, and expressivity.
This course is an introduction to dance in the context of performance on stage, on screen, and in public space. Through viewings, discussions, and practical dance experiences, students will deepen their understanding of how dances are created and how dance shapes and is shaped by the world around it. Students will engage with a wide range of styles, historical periods, and creative approaches to consider how dance matters.
This class provides the opportunity to offer new courses in the subject of Dance at the 1000 level.
In this studio course, students will learn Ballet terminology, movement concepts, and dynamic alignment through an anatomical approach to Ballet technique. Students will work at barre and center while increasing strength, flexibility and body awareness.
In this studio course, students will explore various styles of western modern/contemporary concert dance as technical, expressive practices. Through movement combinations, improvisation, and mini-studies, students will work to deepen body awareness through modern and contemporary movement practices. Working towards efficiency and dynamic alignment, students will increase strength, flexibility, and become more articulate, expressive dancers.
This studio course explores various styles of jazz dance. Combinations will focus on isolation, coordination, juxtaposition and musicality. Styles include but are not limited to contemporary, Broadway/musical theatre and lyrical.
This open-level studio course allows students to explore dance improvisation as a practice of attention, care, and relation. Through improvisational methods and structures, students will develop their skills as improvisers and begin to appreciate improvisation's role in composition (choreography), performance, and daily life.
This course provides students with firsthand experience in the creative practice of choreography and performance while providing exposure to basic production skills. In addition to gaining insight into choreography and performance as modes of critical inquiry, students will also be involved in various aspects of the production and will gain an appreciation of the skills that are required to produce a dance concert.
This class provides the opportunity to offer new courses in the subject of Dance at the 2000 level.
Exploration of Ballet technique for intermediate to advanced students. Students will deepen their knowledge through continued study of terminology, movement concepts, and dynamic alignment while expanding upon their ability to make qualitative choices and enhancing their artistry.
Exploration of western modern/contemporary concert dance practices for intermediate to advanced students. Students will deepen their knowledge of movement concepts, dynamic alignment, and body awareness through combinations, improvisation, partnering, and creative studies. Students will continue to increase their strength, flexibility, and body awareness as they expand upon their ability to make qualitative choices and enhance their artistry.
This studio course explores various styles of jazz dance for intermediate to advanced students. Students will continue to deepen their appreciation of jazz dance forms as they increase movement articulation and specificity. Combinations will focus on isolation, coordination, juxtaposition and musicality while also challenging the students to enhance their expressivity and qualitative choices.
Explores dance making through the investigation of various tools and approaches to movement generation and composition from western choreographic practices. Students will develop their skills as dance makers through movement explorations, readings, discussions, and viewings. Students will create multiple compositional studies to hone their abilities to make dances. Feedback sessions provide opportunities for critical reflection and discussion.
This course aims to deepen students' understanding of dance as a field of artistic and intellectual study. Students will be challenged to examine human movement as a historically situated cultural expression and to explore the relation between dance and various socio-cultural developments. The course will highlight the connection of dance and critical theory, focusing on notions of identity, subjectivity and embodiment.
In this practice-based course, students will reexamine relations to their environment and generate strategies for a new environmental ethics that calls a human-centered world into question. Through reading, conversing, and moving, students consider how somatic and artistic practices might shift ecological understandings. Students will ask questions of and through modes of perception and experiment with an expanding empathy to enact new relations.
This class provides the opportunity to offer new courses in the subject of Dance at the 3000 level.
In-depth investigation of a specific topic in the field of dance at the 3000 level. Topics and content will vary depending upon the instructor's areas of expertise. The course may be repeated for credit in different content areas. Possible topics include: advanced Movement Practices, Somatic Studies, Critical Studies, Creative Research and Scholarship (Choreography, Screendance, Dance and Music or Dance and Media/Technology collaborations), etc.
This course serves as an introduction to the principles and skills involved in the practice of Contact Improvisation. Students will explore and learn improvisational strategies for moving individually, in duets, and groups. With attention focused on responsiveness in the moment, students learn to think quickly and creatively and are encouraged to investigate the territory between familiarity and risk.
This course is designed for students to have the opportunity to learn repertory, experience multiple methods of choreography and gain deeper insight into the practice of dance performance through working with faculty and professional guest artists via the choreographic process.
Studies the integration of dance with other media - text, dramatic action, digital media, sets, props, etc. to provide students with insight into dance theatre as an art form.
Investigates the relationship between dancing bodies, cinematography, and video editing. Exploring innovative ways to film movement, we examine the relationship between the moving body and camera. Students gain exposure to various methodologies and practices that can be directly applied to individual projects. We discuss parallels between choreography, cinematography, and video editing, and how these integrate to form the art of Screendance.
Introduction to and practical experience in the production of dance. Students will explore technical theatre aspects such as lighting, sound, stage management, costumes, props, digital media, as well as what goes into producing work - locating traditional and non-traditional venues, grant writing, publicity and other areas applicable to producing dance.
Exploration of western modern/contemporary concert dance practices for advanced students. Students will work towards mastery as they continue to deepen their knowledge of movement concepts and body awareness. Through advanced combinations, partnering, improvisation, and studies, students will work to gain greater specificity and clarity as they expand upon their artistry and ability to make qualitative choices through the medium of dance.
Investigates somatic practices and methodologies as embodied research. Through movement practice, readings, and discussions we explore multiple concepts and tools that can deepen embodied practices. This course offers an opportunity to foster awareness, expand individual movement choices, and increase clarity of expression. In so doing, we may broaden our capacity to listen, perceive, and relate to ourselves, one another, and the world around us.
Allows upper level students to pursue advanced creative and/or scholarly research in dance as an independent project. Students can identify their area of focus for in depth investigations including, but not limited to: Choregraphy, Screendance, Performance, Performance Studies, Dance Pedagogy, etc.
Investigates theatre arts and their relation to contemporary culture through the practical and experiential study of plays, production style and the role of theatre artists in creative interpretation.
For non-majors. Acquire and practice voice and speech techniques to build oral communication skills, confidence and enjoyment in public speaking, presentation or performance.
This is a making class. Making Places explores the basic elements of spatial design in environmental and theatrical contexts through model making, drawing, collaging, and constructing. How do the principles of design and their application endow Places with an identity? Projects created in manual and digital media.
This class will introduce students to the tools, techniques, and problem-solving of building creature puppets. Mentored by professional creature artists, students will explore fabricating skin textures and patterns, structures, material experiments, and mechanisms. Working both individually and collectively, the class will culminate with a wearable creature piece or puppet for the Stan Winston and Steven Warner Festival of the Moving Creature.
New course in the subject of drama.
Examines the art of theatre and performance through the process of design and the implementation of the design.
Explores basic theories and techniques of acting through exercises, improvisations and scenes from contemporary dramatic literature.
This course surveys a broad range of theories and methodologies pertinent to the fields of Performance Studies. Each unit addresses important concepts and frameworks that help you write about, think about, and make performance art. Lecture, close reading, application exercises, and writing assignments will strengthen your theoretical vocabularies, hone your analytical writing skills and apply various tests to your own work as scholars/artists.
This practice-based course offers a broad introduction to concepts of the body in the context of performance. Using tools of theatre, dance, improvisation, and other mind/body practice, we will uncover the performative possibilities of our physical forms in relation to space and time. Together we will critically consider and actively explore a range of embodied approaches to increase bodily awareness and expand our expressive capacity.
The purpose of this course is to put principles of speech into practice; students will learn to communicate effectively primarily through practical experience. Students will (1) learn the basic principles of speech preparation and delivery, including invention of topics and arguments, organization, and style; (2) apply these principles to your speech preparation and delivery; and (3) develop and use listening skills in the analysis of speeches.
Introduces the circus as a form of American entertainment. Focuses on its development, growth, decline, and cultural influences.
An introduction to the tools and technical processes of performance lighting. Students will explore a range of lighting technologies central to lighting production for live theatre, dance, opera, and concerts. Through lecture, demonstration, digital media, and hands-on experience, students are prepared for work as theatrical electricians and introduced to the craft essential to the theatrical lighting design process.
Application of lighting design and technology in production. May be repeated up to 4 credits.
Studies the technology and practices used in the theatre and entertainment industry. Covers set construction techniques, materials, and hardware. Students will learn the skills and techniques required for using hand and power tools. Terminology learned in Drama 2210 will be practiced in the course Drama 2230 - Production Studio.
This course explores how to turn everyday spaces into stages. Discover how ordinary rooms, streets, parks, vehicles, and other spaces of daily life can be transformed by story-telling and creative performance! We will study different principles for designing spaces for immersive, site-specific, environmentally aware, and other kinds of performances. Open to all students who are interested in storytelling in different spaces.
Application of scenery technology in producing theatrical productions while maintaining and organized safe work environment. Co-requisite DRAM 2210
Application of scenery and properties technology in laboratory production projects.
Application of scenic painting in laboratory production projects. Prerequisites: Dram 2010 and 2020.
Fundamental techniques of scenic painting. A studio class during which students learn to paint faux finishes of marble, wood grain, brick and other common finishes for theatrical application. DRAM 2232 Production Lab: Scene Painting required.
Studies basic techniques for moving the costume design from drawing to finished character, including construction, alteration, patterning, fitting, and accessories. Lab required. Instructor permission.
Application of costume and makeup technology in production laboratory. May be repeated up to four credits. Instructor permission.
Application of performance skills in the production of a theatrical work. Course can be repeated up to four times. Prerequisite: Instructor permission
This course focuses on basic performance techniques as well as individual and group skills. It develops a vocabulary of acting techniques through improvisation, performance exercises and monologue and/or scene work. In addition, the course encourages students to develop skills in personal presentation, confidence building, and teamwork, which transcends the acting studio and has a direct application in life and the workplace.
New course in the subject of drama.
Students will explore the sonic qualities of sound and music through discussion, construction, critical listening, and demonstration.
Application of sound technology in laboratory production projects. May be repeated up to four credits. Prerequisite: permission of instructor.
An introduction to the art and craft of screenwriting through the writing and discussion of short scripts. Will involve study of screenplays and films, and focus on the basic elements of screenwriting, including story structure, creation of character, and formatting.
A course in visual thinking; introduces film criticism, concentrating on classic and current American and non-American films.
DRAM 2830 is a hands-on, experiential course in which students apply digital media design principles, methods, and techniques in correlation with the current Drama production schedule. Students learn the application of media technology to actual theatrical production projects. May be repeated up to four credits. DRAM 2830 requires participation as Video/Media Operator or Assistant for a main stage production.
This is a hands-on course in which students work closely with the instructor to research and develop creative design solutions for performing arts and theatrical productions. It provides students a working forum to collaboratively and independently experiment with and apply principles, methods, and elements of design and design process to specific projects. May be repeated up to four credits.
This course immerses students in the art of dramaturgy through embodied storytelling across theatre, music, dance, film, and multimedia. Students explore the dramaturge¿s role in shaping creative processes, the impact of storytelling, and strategies for inclusive dialogue in design, rehearsal, and performance contexts. Through critical reading, analysis, and project-based learning, students build skills to support artists and performance-making.
Study of the evolution and history of the musical theatre from Mozart to Sondheim through the works of major composers over the last 200-plus years.
How do theatre artists and scholars navigate the past and its effects on the present? This course will introduce you to important moments in theatre history, and show you how to analyze the formation of historical narratives through a variety of lenses and methods. Units are not organized chronologically, but thematically so that we may draw deeper connections across artistic practice, time, place and culture.
Presents a comprehensive study of 'Black Theatre' as the African-American contribution to the theatre. Explores the historical, cultural, and socio-political underpinnings of this theatre as an artistic form in American and world culture. Students gain a broader understanding of the relationship and contributions of this theatre to theatre arts, business, education, lore, and humanity. A practical theatrical experience is a part of the course offering. Prerequisite: Instructor permission
Analysis of representative play scripts to discover how structure and language support conceptual and stylistic choices in production.
The goal of this class will be to identify the values and worldviews that drive change-oriented artistry, and for students to identify the values and worldviews that drive their own artistry. The course will explore the forms of community-based performance including ensemble, devised, religious, activist, educational and autobiographical performance.
Studies the development of the scenic design as theatrical environment, from script analysis through research to completed scenic design.
Expores the cultural influences on fashion choices and expression of identity you create for the 21st century. Examination of your own wardrobe and study of the History of Dress serves as grounding for research into selected garments from The Collection of Historic Dress, c. 1795-1965. Working with extant garments provides insight into these periods of American history, the cultural influences, and the people who inhabited these clothes.
Exercises and scene work emphasizing the development of the actor's vocal and physical resources as a means of creating and communicating character, emotion, and relationships. Prerequisite: DRAM 2020 and instructor permission
Introduces principles of vocal health, provides practical techniques for meeting the voice and speech demands of daily life and performance, and promotes life-long exploration of the speaking voice and the spoken word. Prerequisite: Instructor permission.
A workshop that explores several dimensions of theatrical self-expression through improvised exercises and situations. This course will employ lecture, discussion and performance activities to raise awareness and proficiency in improvisational techniques through dramatic interaction involving imagination and creativity. Prerequisite: Instructor permission.
Examines the fundamental skills necessary to effective and descriptive physical expression for the stage. Focuses on developing an individual awaresness of one's physical self and establishing a sold foundation upon which to build a character physically, through practical exericises in balance, rhythm, endurance , freedom of movement, flexibility, shape and expression.
Studies the integration of song into scene work, and examination of special problems posed for the actor/singer/dancer. Focuses on a character's song presentation within the context of a musical play. Prerequisite: Instructor permission.
New course in the subject of drama.
A directed study in theater or drama.
Studies representative twentieth-century American dramas in the context of theatre history. Prerequisite: Instructor permission
Modern Theatre and Drama is designed to afford the student the opportunity to read and discuss selected works of dramatic literature that have served as the base for theatrical production during the twentieth century; to study that literature in the contexts of cultural developments during the twentieth century; and to begin to develop an ability to read a play text for both its theatrical and its cultural "clues."
Creative application of digital sound editing for media. Techniques investigated include editing pre-recorded music, creating realistic sound environments, representing visual art with sound, three-dimensional sound, and sound creation for video.
Encourages the development of the director's analytical and rehearsal skills in translating text, actors, and space into valid and effective scenes; drawn from plays in the mode of psychological realism. Prerequisite: Dram 2020 required, and Dram 2010 preferred; Instructor permission
What does it mean to produce theater? Is a theater producer an artist, a business leader, a visionary, or all the above? Participants will collaborate to produce a piece of contemporary theater with hands-on application of artistic, leadership and collaborative practices. Course discussions and projects will cover theater organization, mission, and legal structure, as well as collaborative creation, artistry, and design.
One credit is required; may be repeated up to four credits. Application of stage management skills to production and performance. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.
You will explore the craft and skills needed to produce and manage live theater and events of all kinds from the lens of stage management and backstage production. From design collaboration through performance this experiential survey of practical theater craft will include discussions, projects and site visits to elevate your understanding of theater and develop professional skills in project management. No experience necessary.
The goal of this workshop is to understand the aesthetics and techniques of film directing and to produce and direct a short film based on a screenplay. Students will study film directing aesthetics and technique, using a textbook, film viewings, critical analysis and class workshop activities. Students will apply this knowledge of directing as they produce and direct their own short film.
Introduces the art and craft of playwriting, focusing on short exercises and in-class writing assignments. Prerequisite: Instructor permission.
Continuation of Playwriting I, focusing on specific craft exercises and the development of individual style. Prerequisite: DRAM 3710.
An introduction to the art and craft of screenwriting through the writing and discussion of short scripts. Will involve study of screenplays and films, and focus on the basic elements of screenwriting, including story structure, creation of character, and formatting.
Watch, read, and laugh at performances by Italy's most famous comic stars! Plays, films, and one-man shows form the texts, which include not only modern productions by contemporary masters Roberto Benigni and Dario Fo, but also the comedies of the originator of middle-class Italian humor, Carlo Goldoni. Works of these writers/actors/producers introduce important aspects of Italian literary, performative, and cultural traditions. In ENGLISH.
Combining creative practice and critical discourse, this hands-on course grants students an opportunity to learn and utilize the crafts of digital video design in the context of contemporary installation, projection and performance arts. Students experiment with the many ways of designing time-based media and explore the role of video storytelling in the topography of 21st-century theater and live performance.
This course provides a practical forum to employ and integrate a diverse array of existing and emerging media technologies into live performance and performative storytelling. Students will explore and experiment with new media-infused design approaches to enhance the narrative and to actively engage, communicate, and interact with the audience.
Analyzes the development of the silent film, 1895 to 1928; emphasizes the technical and thematic links between national schools of cinema art and the contributions of individual directors. Includes weekly film screenings. Prerequisite: Cinema as Art Form, other film courses, or instructor permission
Analyzes the development of film art from the inception of sound to the 1950s. Includes weekly film screenings. Prerequisite: DRAM 2810 or 3830, or instructor permission.
A history of narrative, documentary and experimental film, 1955-77. Developments in the aesthetics of film are examined in the context of socio-economic, political and cultural conditions specific to different historical moments. Includes weekly film screenings. DRAM 3830, DRAM 3840 or instructor permission.
This course examines how has 20th and 21st century comedic performance spawned and/or reflected movements of social and cultural protest in the United States. From Jackie "Moms" Mabley's Civil Rights stand-up, to feminist sketches on SNL, to Hari Kondabolu's employment of de-colonial humor, we will engage in the complexities of joke-telling and its potential for mobilizing change.
This course focuses primarily on the human form to study line, tone, mass, proportion and composition. Additional subjects that enhance the understanding of the figure might include interior/exterior spaces and still-life. Students will be introduced to various drawing techniques and media. The emphasis will be on the creative process and the art of "drawing to know." Outside work will be assigned to compliment the in-class exercises.
This seminar will examine queer performance and its many meanings in the contemporary United States. We will study a wide range of queer-identifying artists and artists with significant queer fan bases. We will also read foundational texts in queer studies and engage in various learning activities, such as writing prompts, group discussion, creative practice, and improvisation.
Hip Hop Theatre explores how elements of Ritual, Theatre, and the core principles of Hip Hop are shared by members of the Hip Hop community around the world. Students will examine the ways in which Hip Hop Theatre presents itself as a movement and a syncretic art form.
Studies the development of lighting design, from script analysis through concept to completed production.
Studies the development of costume design as a revelation of character and relationship to the special world. Proceeds from script analysis through research to the completed rendering. Lab required. Prerequisite: DRAM 2010, or instructor permission.
Combining tools, spaces, and skills of Arts Grounds, this course explores the design and construction of large moving creatures that culminates in The Stan Winston and Steven Warner Festival of the Moving Creature. Students will gain hands-on experience with materials, craft, and prototyping, and learn lessons from professional designers, artists, and Hollywood creature makers. This is a collaborative course, diving into storytelling and movement to bring each student¿s vision to life.
Scripted scenes, exercises, and ensemble work to expand the actor's approach to characterization and interpretation within various dramatic genres. Prerequisite: DRAM 3410 and instructor permission
Examines the art and craft of stage fighting, comparing its historical context with that of the theater. Focus is on the performance of the illusion of physical aggression and its dramatic intent, following the safety guidelines and techniques recommended by the Society for American Fight Directors. Prerequisite: Instructor permission.
New course in the subject of drama.
A directed project-based study offered to upper-level students. Prerequisite: Instructor permission.
A directed study in theatre management offered to upper-level students. Prerequisite: Instructor permission.
A directed study in dramatic literature, history, theory or criticism offered to upper-level students. Prerequisite: Instructor permission.
A directed study in acting or performance offered to upper-level students. Prerequisite: Instructor permission.
A directed study in theatre movement or physical acting offered to upper-level students. Prerequisite: Instructor permission.
A directed study in voice and the spoken word offered to upper-level students. Prerequisite: Instructor permission.
A directed study in directing offered to upper-level students. Prerequisite: Instructor permission.
A directed study in theatre design offered to upper-level students. Prerequisite: Instructor permission.
A directed study in theatre design technology offered to upper-level students. Prerequisite: Instructor permission.
A directed study in playwriting offered to upper-level students. Prerequisite: Instructor permission.
Continues the work of DRAM 3651 with special attention to the director's organization, scheduling, and efficient use of resources. Students direct a one-act play. Prerequisite: DRAM 3651 and instructor permission.
A workshop for writing extended pieces of dramatic literature. For students who have completed DRAM 3710 or by instructor permission.
The goal of this workshop is to write and prepare a short screenplay to be filmed in the Spring Semester in conjunction with DRAM 4760 Directing the Short Film (students must commit to both classes). Students will study script structure using textbooks, screenplays, and film. Students will apply this knowledge of screenplay structure and form as they write their own scenes and short screenplays.
The goal of this workshop is to understand the aesthetics and techniques of film directing and to produce and direct a short film based on the screenplay written in the previous fall Semester in DRAM 4750 Writing the Short Film.
Students will produce short films generated by the Department of Drama's Filmmaking classes, Writing the Short Film and Directing the Short Film. Each producer will be paired with a director and work closely with them on casting, scheduling, procuring locations and film gear, on set management, editing support, and budgeting.
Seminar discussions and assignments that allow the student to demonstrate knowledge of the theatre as well as artistic, aesthetic, and critical judgment. Prerequisites: Fourth year drama majors or permission of instructor
Independent study conducted under the supervision of a specific instructor(s).
Integration of song into scene work and the examination of special problems posed for the actor/singer. Focuses on character's song presentation within the context of a musical play.
New course in the subject of drama.
A workshop that allows experienced playwrights to create longer and more complex plays. Students are required to create and revise plays ranging from long one-acts to full-length plays.
A survey of dramatic literature, classical to contemporary, with an eye toward reading scripts for the stage. Analysis of representative playscripts to discover how structure and language support conceptual and stylistic choices in production.
Studies basic design communication skills which serve as the foundation for costume, scenic, lighting designers, and technical directors in collaboration with directors, designers, actors, and shop personnel. Includes basic elements of design in line, color, texture, visual research methodology, and media techniques in drawing, painting, model making. Prerequisite: graduate standing M.F.A. program.
Participation in the production program, crediting work in the preparation and performance of lighting design. Prerequisite: graduate standing M.F.A. program.
Studies the elements of theatrical lighting design essential to the stage designer. Areas of study include script interpretation, lighting composition, color, instrumentation, graphic notation, and presentation techniques. Prerequisite: DRAM 7100, 7170 or instructor permission; corequisite: DRAM 7180, 7140.
Study of drafting techniques and computer aided drafting and drawing software that prepares the designer or technician to identify and communicate methods and materials relative to executing the design. Covers standards for theatrical drafting, preparation of ground plans, sections, and design elevations including both pictorial and orthographic drawings. Prerequisite: graduate standing M.F.A. program.
Studies a variety of graphic software programs and computer-aided design techniques which prepares the lighting designer, scenic designer, costume designer, and technical director to identify and communicate methods and materials relative to the execution of their respective designs. Taught completely on-line with all course materials and project submissions made electronically. Prerequisite: DRAM 7170 or instructor permission.
A guided study which gives students the opportunity to explore with a faculty member areas of lighting design and/or technology which are not contained in the established curriculum. Prerequisite: Instructor permission.
Participation in the production program, crediting work in the preparation and performance of scenic designs. Prerequisite: graduate standing M.F.A. program.
Explores the range of theatrical design styles which form the core of the designer's visual catalog. Includes, but is not limited to, 19th- and 20th-century realistic design styles.
Studies the materials and methods of scenic painting and its application to conventional and non-conventional means of scenic replication for dramatic and musical stages. Includes various media used for scenic illustration, and the methods used for preparing a variety of surfaces to be painted. Prerequisite: DRAM 7100.
A faculty-guided exploration of scenic design and/or technology areas not covered in the established curriculum. Repeatable up to 9 credits. Prerequisite: graduate standing M.F.A. program.
Participation in the production program, crediting work in the preparation and performance of costume design. Prerequisite: graduate standing M.F.A. program.
An intense study of basic execution and design techniques that enable construction techniques that enable the costume designer to translate the visual design from the sketch to the stage. Study includes basic construction techniques, same and proper equipment utilization, principles of pattern drafting, design analysis, shop organization and personnel management. Prerequisite: graduate standing M.F.A. program and instructor permission.
Application of design principles to play scripts focusing on the examination of the special world of the play as foundation for character and character relationships. Prerequisite: DRAM 7100, 7350; corequisite: DRAM 7380.
Explores the fundamentals of draping and flat-patterning, the two basic systems of pattern-making upon which all patterns are based. Prerequisite: DRAM 7100, 7350; corequisite: DRAM 7360.
A faculty-guided study in an area of costume design and/or technology not covered in the established curriculum. Prerequisite: graduate standing M.F.A. program or instructor permission.
A faculty guided study in an area of advanced acting not covered in the established curriculum. Prerequisite: Graduate standing M.F.A. program
Examines the essential tools required of the physical performer through practical studio work in the elements of balance, rhythm, shape, endurance, freedom of movement, flexibility, shape and musicality. Identification of physical habits and the body's mechanics will be addressed in order to uncover the key elements of expressive movement and gesture. Prerequisite: Graduate standing M.F.A. program.
Examines the various techniques and methods for creating character through shape, gesture and movement. Through practical work in and out of the studio, students will learn how to read and create postural and gestural patterns in relation to character and establish a specific vocabulary of movement for advanced work in physical acting.
Explores the basic approaches to vocal relaxation, breath control, resonance, and projection. Includes identification and correction of vocal habits and regionalisms, and introduction of phonetics, Lessac, and Linklater vocal methods. Prerequisite: graduate standing M.F.A. program.
Studies the tonal aspects of sound production. Examines appropriate consonant and vowel production, and includes the phonetic analysis of text. The voice is connected to language imagery and emotion, employing textual exploration and physicalization exercises.
Studies complex characterization and style considerations. Works from Miller, Williams, O'Neill, Ibsen, Chekhov, and Shaw serve as material for scene study.
Participation in the production program, crediting work in preparation and performance of acting. Prerequisite: graduate standing M.F.A. program.
Participation in the production program, crediting work in preparation and performance of acting. Prerequisite: graduate standing M.F.A. program.
Intensive study in a specific topic offered to graduate students.
New course in the subject of drama.
Faculty-guided study in an area of sound design or technology not covered in the established curriculum. Prerequisite: graduate standing M.F.A. program and instructor permission.
Participation in the production program, crediting work in preparation and performance of scenic elements. Prerequisite: graduate standing M.F.A. program.
Furthers technical directors' skills through the study of advanced principles of scenery technology, construction, shop organization, purchasing, planning, and organization of crews to complete a production. Prerequisite: Graduate standing M.F.A. program.
A faculty-guided study in an area of technical theatre not covered in the established curriculum. Prerequisite: Graduate standing M.F.A. program or instructor permission.
Graduate-level independent study conducted under the supervision of a specific instructor(s). Requisite: Instructor permission
This course focuses primarily on the human form to study line, tone, mass, proportion and composition. Additional subjects that enhance the understanding of the figure might include interior/exterior spaces and still-life. Students will be introduced to various drawing techniques and media. The emphasis will be on the creative process and the art of "drawing to know."
Participation in the production program, crediting work in the preparation and performance of lighting design. Prerequisite: graduate standing M.F.A. program.
Participation in the production program, crediting work in the preparation and performance of lighting design. Prerequisite: graduate standing M.F.A. program.
A continuation of DRAM 7160, emphasizing alternative forms and spaces, problem solving, orchestration, and cuing. Prerequisite: DRAM 7160 or instructor permission.
A guided study which gives students the opportunity to explore with a faculty member areas of lighting design and/or technology which are not contained in the established curriculum. Prerequisite: Instructor permission.
Participation in the production program, crediting work in preparation and performance of scenic design. Prerequisite: graduating standing M.F.A. program.
Study and creation of classical period scenic design. An examination of design for classical, Shakespearean, and 16-18th century plays. Prerequisite: DRAM 7100, 7260; corequisite: DRAM 8270.
Studies period furniture and decorative arts from antiquity to the present, including cultural influences on interior design elements. Prerequisite: DRAM 7100; corequisite DRAM 8250.
A faculty-guided exploration of scenic design and/or technology areas not covered in the established curriculum. Prerequisite: graduate standing M.F.A. program.
Studies period and contemporary dress and textiles as the foundation of the designer's creation of stage costumes. Analyzes cultural influences of the special world, the psychology of dress, period movement, and the expression of self through choice of dress. Develops investigative methodology through hands-on work with the department's vintage clothing and textiles collection. Prerequisite: DRAM 7360 or instructor permission; corequisite: DRAM 8350 and 8370 recommended.
Participation in the production program, crediting work in the preparation and performance of costume designs. Prerequisite: graduate standing M.F.A. program.
Participation in the production program, crediting work in the preparation and performance of costume designs. Prerequisite: graduate standing M.F.A. program.
Applies design principles and psychology of dress to character development, using scripts from Shakespeare to Williams. Focuses on translation of idea and character through historical and theatrical forms in developing design concepts for contemporary audiences. Prerequisite: DRAM 7360; corequisite DRAM 8370.
Examines advanced production forms with application of design principles to fully developed projects selected from plays, musicals, opera, ballet, and film, as appropriate to the student's progress and focus. Emphasizes versatility and experimental solutions to contemporary design challenges. Prerequisite: DRAM 8350.
Contemporary application of period cut and construction in the reproduction of period fashion for stage purposes. Prerequisite: DRAM 7380; corequisite DRAM 8350.
A faculty-guided study in an area of costume design and/or technology not covered in the established curriculum. Prerequisite: graduate standing M.F.A. program or instructor permission.
Examines the art and craft of stage fighting, comparing its historical context with that of the theater. Focus is on the practical performance of the illusion of physical aggression and its dramatic intent, following the safety guidelines and techniques recommended by the Society for American Fight Directors. Prerequisite: Graduate standing MFA program.
Examines the social history of Western culture and its dramatic use in plays set between the 16th-19th centuries. Focus is on skills acquisition of the movement specific to each period, creative application to performance, and research skills for development of character. Prerequisites: Graduate standing MFA program.
Explores speaking and acting verse, focusing on scansion, language analysis, verbal improvisation, and personalization using Berry, Rodenburg, and Wade techniques. Actors score and interpret poetic and dramatic material, integrating text analysis with emotional expressiveness. Emphasizes heightened language texts, primarily Shakespeare. Prerequisite: Graduate standing MFA program.
Integration of song into scene work and the examination of special problems posed for the actor/singer. Focuses on character's song presentation within the context of a musical play.
Performers work for vocal and physical embodiment of Shakespeare's language. Examines the mechanics and structures of poetic language and includes research and exploration of historical and contemporary approaches to Shakespearean performance. Prerequisite: Graduate standing MFA program.
Focuses on making informed performance choices in period plays based on aspects of structures such as: dramatic text, historical period, culture and society, and production concepts. Prerequisite: Graduate standing MFA program.
Participation in the production program, crediting work in preparation and performance of acting. Prerequisite: graduate standing M.F.A. program.
Intensive study in a specific topic offered to graduate students.
New Course in the Subject of Drama.
Participation in the production program, crediting work in the preparation and performance of scenic elements. Prerequisite: graduate standing M.F.A. program.
Participation in the production program, crediting work in the preparation and performance of scenic elements. Prerequisite: graduate standing M.F.A. program.
Studies traditional and contemporary entertainment rigging systems; investigates current practices of rigging, their equipment, and the materials involved. Prerequisite: graduate standing M.F.A. program or instructor permission.
A faculty-guided study in an area of technical theatre not covered in the established curriculum. Prerequisite: Graduate standing M.F.A. program or instructor permission.
Graduate-level independent study conducted under the supervision of a specific instructor(s). Requisite: Instructor permission
Prerequisite: graduate standing M.F.A. program.
Preparation of a written thesis that corresponds to the performance, direction, or design of a production. Prerequisite: graduate standing M.F.A. program.
Participation in the production program, crediting work in the preparation and performance of lighting design. Prerequisite: graduate standing M.F.A. program.
Critical assessment of the lighting student's portfolio and résumé leading to the creation of a professional body of work. Tailors design and presentation projects to student's needs. Prerequisite: DRAM 7160, 8150, and 8160, or instructor permission; corequisite: DRAM 9060.
Explores advanced stage lighting technologies including MIDI show-control, automated fixture programming, complex cuing, and effect sequencing. Prerequisite: graduate standing M.F.A. program or instructor permission.
A guided study which gives students the opportunity to explore with a faculty member areas of lighting design and/or technology which are not contained in the established curriculum. Prerequisite: Instructor permission.
Participation in the production program of the curriculum, crediting work in the preparation and performance of scenic designs. Prerequisite: graduate standing M.F.A. program.
Studies advanced production forms including operas, musicals, and dance productions or ballets. Involves solving design issues directly related to music and its influence on the stage picture. Prerequisite: DRAM 7100, 7260, 8250, 8270.
A faculty-guided exploration of scenic design and/or technology areas not covered in the established curriculum. Prerequisite: graduate standing M.F.A. program.
Participation in the production program of the curriculum, crediting work in the preparation and performance of costume designs. Prerequisite: graduate standing M.F.A. program.
Critical assessment of the student's portfolio and résumé leading to the creation of a professional body of work. Tailors design and presentation projects to student's needs. Prerequisite: DRAM 8360.
Examines traditional and innovative products and practices used in the execution of contemporary design of accessories and special costume pieces including period, fantasy, special effects, and spectacle. Prerequisite: DRAM 8370 or instructor permission.
A Challenging explortion for the students with designs that combine unusual materials and techniques with traditional dressmaking for stage purposes. Prerequisites: Graduate standing M.F.A. program.
A faculty-guided study in an area of costume design and/or technology not covered in the established curriculum. Prerequisite: graduate standing M.F.A. program or instructor permission.
A faculty guided study in an area of advanced acting not covered in the established curriculum. Prerequisite: Graduate standing M.F.A. program
Studies the dialects most commonly employed in theatre. Methodology includes practice with taped dialects, interviews with authentic dialect speakers, phonetic representation, and research into specific cultural aspects influencing structural formation and sound. Prerequisite: Graduate standing MFA program.
Audition techniques and practice are examined, as is a wide-ranging repertoire of audition materials. Prerequisite: DRAM 7450, 7460, 8450, 8460.
Participation in the production program, crediting work in preparation and performance of acting. Prerequisite: graduate standing M.F.A. program.
Participation in the production program, crediting work in preparation and performance of acting.
Intensive study in a specific topic offered to graduate students.
New course in the subject of drama.
Participation in the production program, crediting work in preparation and performance of scenic elements. Prerequisite: graduate standing M.F.A. program.
A faculty-guided study in an area of technical theatre not covered in the established curriculum. Repeatable up to 9 credits. Prerequisite: Graduate standing M.F.A. program or instructor permission.
Graduate-level independent study conducted under the supervision of a specific instructor(s). Requisite: Instructor permission.
Prerequisite: Graduate standing M.F.A. program.
Graduate-level preparation for thesis research.