Course Descriptions
Theatre (THE) Courses
THE 100 Introduction to Theatre Production/Technology (3-0) 3 credits
Students learn about, and perform, work on theatrical production. Shop and studio work is complemented by lectures and demonstrations on the technical components of a theatre production. Topics covered include: designers and their functions; scenic and costume construction techniques; stage rigging, hardware and material; sound; stage procedures and safety. Simple drafting projects and the ability to read floor plans and stage elevations are stressed.
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THE 101 Stage Design (3-0) 3 credits
This course requires students to translate a visual concept into a design for the stage using the principles of composition and the basic elements of design and communicate that design both orally and visually. Emphasis is placed on the following areas of design: scenic, lighting, and costume. Secondary emphasis will be on make-up stage properties, projections, sound design, and the use of computers in the theatre. Work on technical crews for the department’s production is required.
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THE 102 Acting I: Introduction to Acting (0-6) 3 credits
An introductory course in acting and performance technique, designed to develop students' awareness of and capabilities in the acting process, and to foster an understanding of theatre as a valuable area of human endeavor. The course will introduce basic communication skills, including physical and vocal presence in front of an audience and will develop acting skill through the use of regular warm-ups, improvisational, imaginative and ensemble building theatre exercises as well as beginning scene study and monologue performance. Open to all students.
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THE 103 Acting II: Scene Study (0-6) 3 credits
This is a performance course introducing scene work from a variety to dramatic styles. Concepts taught include script analysis, creative work habits, ensemble development, rehearsal skills, and playing physical actions.
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THE 104 Introduction to the Theatre (3-0) 3 credits
Introduction to Theatre will provide a broad survey of the theatrical arts (playwriting, acting, directing, and design). The course will focus on significant periods of theatrical history identifying important artists and innovators. Students will increase their understanding, appreciation, and critical perceptions of theatre by writing a 10-minute play and attending a theatrical production. This course is intended for students in the theatre track, or students looking to fulfill their general education arts requirement. This course carries SUNY General Education The Arts credit.
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THE 105 Rehearsal and Performance (6-0) 3 credits
This course gives students experience in workshopping, rehearsing, and performing for live audiences. Students will prepare a full length play or musical for public performance. In addition to attending a variety of rehearsals, students will complete hours helping to construct the production and are required to participate in the load-in and strike. This course is open to all students including high school juniors and seniors as well as members of the community. May be taken more than once for credit.
(Also listed as MUS 155)
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THE 106 Children's Theatre Tour (0-6) 3 credits
Children’s Theatre Tour gives students experience in workshopping, rehearsing, and performing for live audiences. Students prepare a one-act play for presentation in the local primary and elementary schools. The one-act play will be built, rehearsed and toured by the members of the class during the semester. This course is open to all students and can be repeated more than once.
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THE 115 Backstage Practicum (3-0) 1 credit
The Backstage Practicum provides students the opportunity to participate in the semester's main stage production as a backstage technician, or work for an outside theatre organization in the same capacity. Students can serve as the stage manager, light board operator, sound technician, costume dresser, prop runner, or on the shift crew. Technical positions will vary with the needs of each production. This course may be repeated more than once. The course is open to all students, but permission of instructor is required to insure backstage assignment. Course graded as satisfactory/unsatisfactory
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THE 181 Mime: Physical Theatre and Movement (3-0) 3 credits
In this course participants study and apply non-verbal techniques to create physical theatre performance. The course emphasizes the use and understanding of facial expressions, gestures, and pantomime. Various mime techniques, including those of Decroux and Montanaro, are taught. (Also listed as HPE 181)
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THE 200 Directing Workshop (6-0) 3 credits
A workshop in directing techniques with emphasis on play interpretation, casting, stage movement, character development, rehearsals and performance. Prerequisites: THE 102
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THE 210 Dramatic Literature (3-0) 3 credits
This course is an exploration of the history and genre of drama. By analyzing some of the best-known plays throughout theatre history and how they were performed, students will deepen their understanding of dramatic literature and performance. During the course students will decide on a particular area of research in order to write a critical analysis focusing on one or more play(s). The course culminates in a project focusing on one creative endeavor and reflecting on their chosen area of study. This course is appropriate for students in the Theater track or Humanities track, and also meets the general education Humanities or Art requirement. Prerequisite: ENG 102 or ENG 103. (Also listed as ENG 213) This course carries SUNY General Education Humanities and The Arts credit.
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THE 215 Scene Shop Practicum (2-0) 1 credit
Students will receive credit for working on the construction of scenic elements and providing other pre-production support for current productions. The course is open to all students and can be taken more than once. Course graded as satisfactory/unsatisfactory.
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THE 220 Theatre History: Greeks through the 18th Century (3-0) 3 credits
This course surveys the global origins and development of theatre from its Antiquity to the 18th century within their historical, social, political and economic contexts. Theatre architecture, theatre technology, design concepts, acting styles, and significant dramatic works will be explored. Theatre traditions of non-Western cultures are also included. Prerequisite: ENG 101 This course carries SUNY General Education Humanities and World History and Global Awareness credit.
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THE 225 Theatre History: Romantics to Contemporary (3-0) 3 credits
This course surveys the global development of theatre from the late 18th century to the present within its historical, social, political and economic context. Theatre architecture, theatre technology, design concepts, acting styles, and significant dramatic works will be explored. The course also includes the discussion of theatre traditions of non-Western cultures. Prerequisites: ENG 101 This course carries SUNY General Education Humanities and World History and Global Awareness credit.
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THE 250 Theatre Internship 1-3 credits
Off-Campus work experiences allow students to receive college credit for working in the theatre. Internships can, but are not limited to, theatre management, production, or performance. Students can earn between 1 - 3 credit hours depending on the length of the internship and the number of hours worked. Permission of Instructor and Grade point average of 2.0 or higher.
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