Courses in Theatre

A Thr 107 Introduction to Dramatic Art (3)

The components of dramatic art; attention to the contributions of acting, script, makeup, scenery, lighting, sound, music and architecture to the theatre as a unified creative expression. A Thr 107Z is the writing intensive version of A Thr 107; only one may be taken for credit. [AR]

A Thr 107Z Introduction to Dramatic Art (3)

A Thr 107Z is the writing intensive version of A Thr 107; only one may be taken for credit. Will not be offered in 2005-2006. [AR WI]

A Thr 120 Understanding Design for the Performing Arts (3)

An introduction to the creative and historical processes, principles, and practices of design for the performing arts. Using theatre as the primary form, this course provides an overview of scenery, lighting, costuming, sound, and special effects, examining how each plays a role in defining resolutions to the major issues of live performance design. [AR]

A Thr 129 Performance Aerobics (2)

An introduction to aerobic exercise that strengthens and tones muscles, increases muscle-joint flexibility and cardiorespiratory endurance. Emphasis is on body awareness, alignment, fluidity of movement, projection and performance energy. No previous experience necessary. S/U graded.

A Thr 130 Technical Elements of Theatre (3)

An introduction to theatrical production, including the examination of theatre architecture, scenery, lighting, costumes, sound, properties, and production organization. May not be offered in 2005-2006.

A Thr 135 Introduction to Technical Theatre (4)

Examination of the elements of technical theatre, including function and coordination of theatre architecture, scenery, lighting, costume and props. Three hours of lecture, plus assigned laboratory sessions.

A Thr 140 Fundamentals of Acting (3)

Introduction to the art and craft of acting. Exercises in relaxation, concentration and imaging. Memorized scenes and monologues. Course is limited to freshman sophomores. S/U graded.

A Thr 140 Fundamentals of Acting (3)

Introduction to the art and craft of acting. Exercises in relaxation, concentration and imaging. Memorized scenes and monologues. This course is offered only through the University in High School Program. A/E graded.

A Thr 162 Introduction to Modern Dance (3)

An exploration of the fundamentals of modern dance technique: body alignment, coordination, strength and flexibility, locomotion performed in rhythmic patterns with an emphasis on anatomically efficient movement and energy projection. An investigation of the elements of movement: space, time and energy and the creative and expressive aspects of dance through improvisation, problem solving, composition and performance. The study of the development of modern dance as an art form. This course will include readings in dance theory and history, video and live concert viewing, movement studies, journals, and a final piece for public viewing. No previous experience necessary.

A Thr 163 Intermediate Modern Dance (3)

Continuation of skill development and comprehension begun in A Thr 162. This course will develop an increased movement vocabulary moving into more advanced technical combinations (rhythmic and non-rhythmic) related to space, time and energy. Movement exercises will allow students to work creatively, individually and in groups employing movement tasks to develop modern dance repertoire. Course assignments may include attendance at public performances, readings, written journals and an informal performance work will be required to complete the unit. Prerequisite(s): A Thr 162.

A Thr 164 Beginning Jazz Dance (3)

An exploration of the basic principles of jazz dance technique including body isolations, syncopation and combinations of basic jazz steps. Readings in the history of jazz dance, video and live concert viewing will place jazz dance in a historical context and create an appreciation of it as an art form. Movement studies, journals and a final piece for public performance are required. S/U graded. May not be offered in 2005-2006.

A Thr 170 Introduction to Ballet (3)

An introduction to theory and techniques of classical ballet as well as appreciation of the art form. May be repeated once for credit.

A Thr 171 Intermediate Ballet (3)

Continuation of skill development and comprehension begun in A Thr 170. Theory and techniques of classical ballet as well as appreciation of the art form. May be repeated once for credit. May not be offered in 2005-2006.

A Thr 175 Choreography (3)

Study and practice of the creation and artistic patterning of movement into dance. Exercises are given to explore movement possibilities and structures based on kinesthetic responses. Students make regular in-class presentations of projects-in-progress and show the final project in an informal showing. Consideration of the expression of ideas through dance will be integral to students’ development of the choreographic process. Students are expected to maintain a journal recording an outline of their choreographic projects and written exercises related to allocated compositional tasks. Prerequisite(s) Two of the following three courses: A Thr 162, A Thr 170 and A Thr 244 or permission of the instructor. May not be offered in 2005-2006.

A Thr 201 Production and Performance Lab (1)

Application of theatre study to theatre practice through participation in the production activities of the Department of Theatre. Assignments are coordinated by the instructor each semester with the productions being presented. Examples of assignments in this course are production shop crews, acting, publicity and dramaturgy. Two semesters required of Theatre majors. Repeatable for credit. A maximum total of six credits from A Thr 201 and A Thr 202 may be applied toward graduation.

A Thr 202 Production and Performance Lab 2 (1)

Application of theatre study to theatre practice through participation in the production crew activities of the Department of Theatre. Assignments are coordinated by the instructor each semester with the productions being presented. Examples of assignments in this course are production running crews, and supervisory positions. Two semesters required of Theatre majors. Repeatable for credit. A maximum total of six credits from A Thr 201 and A Thr 202 may be applied toward graduation.

A Thr 210Z Play Analysis (3)

Study of approaches to the analysis of dramatic literature. Readings in dramatic literature, criticism, theory. Written practice in analyzing plays and other assigned readings. [WI]

A Thr 221 Development of Theatre and Drama I (3)

A survey of dramatic literature and theatrical art in ancient Greece and Rome, Asia and Medieval Europe. This course includes introductory material to provide a foundation for further study in dramatic literature and theatre history. [AR EU HU]

A Thr 222 Development of Theatre and Drama II (3)

A survey of dramatic literature and theatrical art from the Renaissance to the late 19th century. Prerequisite(s): A Thr 221. [AR EU HU]

A Thr 224 Contemporary Issues in Modern Drama (3)

Exploration of selected themes and ideas represented in plays chosen from the modern repertory. Political, social, economic, and/or ethical issues are examined as dramatists are representing them in today’s plays. Prospective students should consult the instructor for current course information and topics. May be repeated once for credit when content varies. [AR HU]. May not be offered in 2005-2006.

A Thr 225 American Theatre History (3)

Development of theatre and drama in the United States from its 17th-century beginnings to the present. [AR HU]

A Thr 228 Voices of Diversity in Contemporary American Theatre and Drama (3)

Concentration on works which are often omitted from the theatrical canon because of their divergent aesthetic, ideological or sociological values. Selections will include, but not be limited to, dramas and creative contributions by African-Americans, Latinas and Latinos, Gays and Lesbians, and Native Americans. [DP]. May not be offered in 2005-2006.

A Thr 230 Great Drama on Film and Video (3)

A study of major works of drama through the ages with emphasis on their values as works of dramatic literature as well as crucial raw material for complex embodiment in theatre and film performance. [AR HU]. May not be offered in 2005-2006.

A Thr 235 Fundamentals of Theatrical Design (3)

Exploration of the elements of design and principles of composition, especially as they relate to the visual aspects of theatre. Lectures will emphasize scenic and costume design, with projects, exercises and classroom discussions aimed at developing visual awareness and imagination. [AR]

A Thr 240 Acting I (3)

Development of the actor’s instrument: voice, body and imagination. Topics include vocabulary, analysis for action, discipline, artistic focus, and rehearsal skills. Exercises include improvisations and scripted performance. The purpose of this course is to encourage students to take artistic risks and build confidence in their ability to perform. Prerequisite(s): permission of instructor. [OD]

A Thr 242 Voice l (3)

Study of voice production employing exercises in relaxation, breathing, resonation, and the discovery of the individual’s optimum voice. Exercises in projection in a variety of performance spaces. Prerequisite(s): permission of instructor. [OD]

A Thr 244 Movement I (3)

A movement class focusing on alignment, centering and preparing the body for work on the stage. Employs techniques from the Alexander, Feldenkrais, and Suzuki training systems. Prerequisite(s): permission of instructor.

A Thr 250 Stage Makeup (1)

Exploration of the art and technique of makeup design. Includes exercises in the technique of modeling the planes of the face. Special emphasis on understanding and applying the principles of chiaroscuro.

A Thr 260 Theatrical Drafting (3)

Study and practice of the techniques used in theatrical drafting including orthographic projections, isometrics, mechanical perspective and freehand drawing, which are essential tools of communication for further study in the technical and design areas. Will not be offered in 2005-2006.

A Thr 261 Folk Dance (1)

An introduction to International Folk Dance. Dances from many countries and cultures will be taught and discussed. The course will prepare the student to join recreational folk dance groups and to participate in ethnic festivals. S/U graded. May not be offered in 2005-2006.

A Thr 263 Decorative Arts in Relation to Scenic Design (3)

A survey of period styles of furniture, architectural ornament, and interior architecture and decoration. Prerequisite(s): permission of instructor. May not be offered in 2005-2006.

A Thr 264 Rendering Techniques for Theatre (3)

A practical course in rendering for theatre employing a variety of techniques including acrylic, watercolor and ink. Projects include rendering light, copying photographs, and applying acrylic paint employing watercolor technique. May not be offered in 2005-2006.

A Thr 266 Scene Painting (3)

A practical approach to painting scenery for the theatre. Students learn a variety of application techniques employing tools such as sprayers, brushes, brooms, feather dusters, sponges and stamps. Students also study color mixing and the physical properties of paint. May not be offered in 2005-2006.

A Thr 270 Technical Theatre Practice (3)

Introduction to the materials and techniques used in the construction and handling of theatrical scenery and lighting. Topics include equipment, rigging, mechanical devices, basic electricity, and translation of theatrical drafting. Emphasis on application within the theatrical environment. May not be offered in 2005-2006.

A Thr 280 Costume Technology (3)

Introduction to the use of materials and techniques in the preparation and construction of theatrical costumes. Topics include patterning, draping, basic theatrical sewing, budgeting, dyeing, and fabrics. Emphasis on application within the theatrical environment.

A Thr 300 Plays in Process (3)

This course examines the arc of the dramatic event from its genesis in the mind of the playwright to its presentation before an audience. Particular attention is paid to source material and its relationship to the development of the script. The contributions of interpreters such as dramaturg, director, designers and actors are also explored. Students are exposed, as directly as possible, to aspects of the creative process that makes theatre happen. May not be offered in 2005-2006.

A Thr 310 Reader’s Theatre (3)

Study and practice in the performance techniques and materials appropriate to reader's theatre. Particular attention to the development of vocal expressiveness by the individual performer as well as readers in concert. May not be offered in 2005-2006. [OD]

A Thr 315 (=A Art 315 and A Mus 315) Arts Management (3)

An overview of the conceptual and practical management structures and systems in professional, not-for-profit arts and cultural organizations. The course focuses on areas of prime importance to the arts manager: organizational structure, planning, board/staff leadership, programming and budgeting, Term project required. Only one of A Art 315, A Mus 315, and A Thr 315 may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): permission of instructor.

A Thr 320 Performance Art in America (3)

Performance art has proven to be a radical method of establishing cultural and gender identity. This course examines the origins of the form in avant-garde European movements of the early twentieth century and its vigorous expression in contemporary America. Course texts include performance scripts, performance videos and, where possible, live performance art. As the content of performance art is often controversial and sometimes offensive, students in the course will consider issues such as censorship, civil discourse, and the methodology of criticizing controversial material. May not be offered in 2005-2006.

A Thr 322 Development of Theatre and Drama III (3)

A survey of dramatic literature and theatrical art from the end of the 19th century to World War II. A Thr 322Z is the writing intensive version of A Thr 322; only one may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): A Thr 221. [AR]

A Thr 322Z Development of Theatre and Drama III (3)

The writing intensive version of A Thr 322; only one may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): A Thr 221. [AR WI]

A Thr 323 (= A Eac 396) Readings in Chinese Drama (3)

After introducing the history and aesthetics of the Chinese theatre, this course will concentrate on reading and discussing pieces of Yuan Zaju Drama, Ming Chuanqi Drama, Peking/Beijing Opera, Chuanju Drama, and Chinese Shadow Plays. Knowledge of the Chinese language is not necessary for taking this course. Prerequisite(s): Any 200 level course from either the Department of East Asian Studies (other than 200 level language courses) or the Theater Department.

A Thr 324 (= A Eng 344) Early Works of Shakespeare (3)

The development of Shakespeare’s dramatic art, with emphasis on character, language, theme, form and structure in comedies, histories and tragedies of the 16th century. Intended primarily for juniors and seniors. Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor.

A Thr 325 (= A Eng 345) Later Works of Shakespeare (3)

The development of Shakespeare's dramatic art, focusing on works from the 17th century the mature tragedies (including Hamlet,) the dark comedies, and the dramatic romances with emphasis on character, language, theme, form and structure, as well as dramatic history. Intended primarily for juniors and seniors. Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor.

A Thr 340 Acting II (3)

Developing a role through script analysis. The course focuses on learning and applying a practical method of analyzing a script for character action. Exercises include scene work, monologue preparation, and audition technique. Prerequisite(s): A Thr 240 and permission of instructor. [OD]

A Thr 341 Acting III (3)

Developing and opening up the student actor s instrument through performing Shakespearean scenes. Exploration of acting technique beyond the psychological realism of contemporary theatre practice. Exploration of action and character defined by language. Physical and vocal exercises in addition to scene work and script analysis employing scansion technique. Prerequisite(s): A Thr 340, 242 or 244, and permission of instructor. [OD]

A Thr 343 Voice II (3)

Study of speech and articulation. Exercises emphasize gaining proficiency in standard stage English and in working with classical texts. Prerequisite(s): A Thr 242 and permission of instructor. Will not be offered in 2005-2006. [OD]

A Thr 345 Movement II (3)

Development of physical characterization through movement. Employs techniques such as Laban, Essentics, and animal mask. Exercises in character creation through script analysis. Prerequisite(s): A Thr 244 and permission of instructor. May not be offered in 2005-2006.

A Thr 350 Directing I (3)

An exploration of the art and craft of directing for the theatre. Includes methods of approaching the text, organizing the rehearsal process and composing the production. Prerequisite(s): A Thr 221, 235 and 240, and permission of instructor.

A Thr 351 Directing II (3)

A continuation of study begun in A Thr 350 for advanced students. Prerequisite(s): A Thr 350 and permission of instructor. May not be offered in 2005-2006.

A Thr 359 (= A Rus 359 & 359Z) Russian Drama in English Translation (3)

Surveys major trends in Russian drama and analyzes major works from the comedies of Fonvizin and Griboedov satirizing the Russian social scene to the twilight melancholy of Chekhov and the theatre of 20th-century Soviet Russia. Conducted in English. Offered in alternate years. Only one of A Thr 359, A Rus 359 & 359Z may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): A Rus 251 or junior or senior class standing, or permission of instructor. May not be offered in 2005-2006.

A Thr 360 Theatre Production Technology (3)

The theories and practices of technical production, and the application of graphics techniques to the communication of ideas. Topics include technical organization and planning, budgeting, theatre architecture, principles of theatre technology, drafting, rigging and model building. Prerequisite(s): A Thr 135 or 130, and 260. May not be offered in 2005-2006.

A Thr 365 Scene Design (3)

The applications of the principles of design to scenery for the theatre. Focus on the analysis of the script in visual terms and the translation of this into the design for a setting. Model-making, drawing and rendering techniques will be explored as methods of communicating design ideas. Prerequisite(s): A Thr 235 and 360. Will not be offered in 2005-2006.

A Thr 370 Stage Lighting Technology (3)

Introduction to stage lighting technology, and to principles relating to the safe operation of rigging and maintenance. Topics include basic optics, electricity, equipment, the physics of light and interpretation of lighting plans and symbols. Prerequisite(s): A Thr 135 or 130.

A Thr 371 Theatre and Sound (3)

Sound technology, including reproduction, reinforcement, and recording as applied to theatrical production. Topics include the various types of equipment required to assemble and troubleshoot a complete sound system, safe installation and operation of a sound system in a theatrical environment. Prerequisite(s): A Thr 260 or permission of instructor. May not be offered in 2005-2006.

A Thr 372 (=A Art 372 & A Mus 372) Sound Design and Multimedia (1)

Theory and techniques of how sound and music are composed for use in multi-media fields, including Theatre, the World-Wide Web, installation art, CD-ROM, and video. Students will work on original projects in their respective disciplines. The focus of this course will vary. Prerequisite(s): A Mus 325 and A Mus 426 or A Thr 426 and/or permission of instructor.

A Thr 375 Lighting Design (3)

The study of light as a design element in theatrical production. Topics include script analysis in terms of lighting, the phenomena of color as applied to lighting, the various methods available for lighting the stage, advanced consideration of lighting control systems and their effect on design, and the preparation of lighting plots. Prerequisite(s): A Thr 260 and 370.

A Thr 380 History of Costume (3)

Survey of Western clothing history, fashion and style from primitive times to the 20th century. [AR]

A Thr 385 Costume Design (3)

The theory and application of the principles of theatrical costume design. Practice in developing necessary graphic skills through study of drawing and rendering techniques. Prerequisite(s): A Thr 235 and 380.

A Thr 386 Costume Crafts and Properties (3)

Intensive study of the techniques, materials, and tools used in the more specialized areas of theatrical costuming such as armor, hats, and jewelry. Prerequisite(s): A Thr 130 or 135. May not be offered in 2005-2006.

A Thr 390 Internship with New York State Theatre Institute (3-15)

Individually arranged apprenticeship employing experiences in the Theatre's current schedule of productions and school residencies. Emphasis on interdisciplinary learning, theatre production, education, and aesthetic, technical, and business aspects of the arts. Internships are open only to qualified juniors and seniors who have an overall grade point average of 2.50 or higher. Prerequisite(s): permission of instructor. S/U graded.

A Thr 397 Independent Study in Theatre (2-4)

Directed reading and conferences on selected topics. A student may take the course once as strictly research and once as a production-related study, but not repeat one or the other. Prerequisite(s): junior or senior class standing, and permission of instructor and department chair.

A Thr 406Z (= A Eng 404) Playwriting (3)

Workshop dealing with the craft of playwriting. Focuses on preparing a stageworthy script; some of these scripts may be considered for production. Limited enrollment. Only one of A Thr 406Z & A Eng 404 may be taken for credit. A Thr 406Z may be repeated once for credit. Prerequisite(s): A Thr 322Z or 322 or equivalent, and permission of instructor. [WI]

A Thr 407 Scriptwriting (3)

This workshop course introduces students to the elements of screenwriting: story, plot, conflict, theme, dialogue, structure, and characterization. Students learn to create screenplays through exercises which develop familiarity with these screenwriting tools. The format and special character of the screenplay are explored through in-class presentation of the on-going work from semester length projects. Examples of projects (which vary as appropriate to student skills) include short (ten minute) screenplays, screenplay editing and longer screenplays where length is determined by the nature of the story. Limited enrollment. Will not be offered in 2005-2006.

A Thr 426 (=A Art 426 and A Mus 426) Studio Work in Electronic Music and Media (3)

This course will provide students with basic studio techniques for field recording, digital audio editing, signal processing, and composition. Projects will reflect a variety of aesthetic approaches and disciplines from the experimental tradition in Electronic Music to sound art, multimedia applications, and related fields. Prerequisite(s): A Mus 325 or equivalent and/or permission of instructor.

A Thr 428 (=A Art 428 and A Mus 428) Sound Design and Multimedia (1)

Theory and techniques of how sound and music are composed for use in multi-media fields, including Theatre, the World-Wide Web, installation art, CD-ROM, and video. Students will work on original projects in their respective disciplines. The focus of this course will vary. Prerequisite(s): A Mus 325 and A Mus 426 or A Thr 426 and/or permission of instructor.

A Thr 429 (=A Art 429 and A Mus 429) Live Electronic Performance (3)

A survey of the history, techniques, and aesthetics of live electronic music and sound installation art, beginning in the 1960s. The course will include instruction in interactive and other forms of performance practice, as well as techniques for live sound production. Students will perform and tech original works and re-creations of historical works. May be repeated for a total of 12 credits. Prerequisite(s): A Mus 325, 426 and/or permission of instructor.

A Thr 430 Contemporary Theatre (3)

The course explores the most significant trends and developments in contemporary Western drama and theatre from World War II to the present in the context of historical background and critical and philosophical thought. Readings change to keep the course abreast of current thought. Representative readings may include dramatists such as Berthold Brecht, Jean-Paul Sartre, Heiner Müller, Caryl Churchill, and Maria Irene Fornes, as well as theoretical and critical essays that address epic theatre, existentialism, theatre of the absurd, interculturalism, feminism, and postmodern performance. Filmed productions such as those by Peter Brook, Jerzy Growtowski, Tadeusz Kantor, and Robert Wilson are also analyzed by the class. Prerequisite(s): A Thr 221, 222, 322/Z or permission of instructor.

A Thr 440 Acting IV (3)

Development of the student actor's ability to portray characters in studies and styles of acting. Exercises in identifying rules of social behavior, tastes, mores, self image, etc. characteristic of a playwright's world and applying this knowledge to the creation of a character. Exercises in rehearsal methods explore the actor's need to consider audience response in creating the performance. Prerequisite(s): A Thr 341 and permission of instructor. [OD]

A Thr 442 Voice III (3)

A voice class stressing voice and speech as embodiments of textual styles. Prerequisite(s): A Thr 343 and permission of instructor. May not be offered in 2005-2006.

A Thr 444 Movement III (3)

Instruction in stage combat. Study of personal combat and types of weapons employed in combat. Exercises in basic safety measures and combat movement with a variety of weapons. Students will be examined in a minimum standard repertoire of combat moves upon completion of the course. Optional certification by the Society of American Fight Directors will be available to some students with the instructor's recommendation. Prerequisite(s): A Thr 244 and permission of instructor. May not be offered in 2005-2006.

A Thr 446 Special Studies in Voice (1-3)

Intensive work in a particular aspect of vocal production; e.g., musical theatre, dialects, oral interpretation. May be repeated up to a total of 6 credits. Prerequisite(s): A Thr 242 and permission of instructor. Will not be offered in 2005-2006.

A Thr 447 Special Studies in Movement (1-3)

Intensive work in a particular aspect of stage movement; e.g., stage combat, period movement, mime. May be repeated up to a total of 6 credits. Prerequisite(s): A Thr 244 and permission of instructor. May not be offered in 2005-2006.

A Thr 448 Special Studies in Design and Technical Production (1-3)

Intensive work in a particular aspect of design or technical production; e.g., scene painting, stage properties, computerized lighting systems, special effects. May be repeated for a total of 6 credits. Prerequisite(s): junior or senior class standing, and permission of instructor. May not be offered in 2005-2006.

A Thr 449 Topics in Acting (3)

Special topics and exercises selected to address particular needs and interests of advanced students. This course may be repeated once when topic varies. Prerequisite(s): A Thr 440 or permission of instructor. May not be offered in 2005-2006.

A Thr 455 Seminar in Theatre History (3)

Considers a particular research topic in theatre history. May be repeated once when content varies. Prerequisite(s): Thr 322 or 322Z, junior or senior class standing, and permission of instructor.

A Thr 456 Seminar in Dramatic Literature (3)

Examines a particular genre, movement, period or author. Prerequisite(s): A Thr 322 or 322Z, junior or senior class standing, and permission of instructor. May be repeated once when content varies.

A Thr 465 Technical Design and Production Planning (3)

The application of theatre technology to problem solving in a theatrical organization. Advanced study of equipment, methods, materials and the principles governing their use. Technical innovation, planning, structural design, and advanced drafting considered as functions of the technical director/production manager. Prerequisite(s): A Thr 360. May not be offered in 2005-2006.

A Thr 470 Stage Management (3)

Investigation of the theories and techniques of stage management, including a thorough examination of the varied functions and duties performed by stage managers in professional, educational, commercial, and community theatres. Prerequisite(s): A Thr 135 or 130, junior or senior class standing, and permission of instructor. Will not be offered in 2005-2006.

A Thr 480 Drama in Production (2-3)

Specific projects under the direction of an appropriate faculty member in one or more phases of production related to current Theatre Department activity; may include supervised research in appropriate critical or historical background and theory. May be repeated once with a different primary production emphasis. Prerequisite(s): junior or senior class standing, and permission of instructor.

A Thr 490 Internship (3-12)

Apprenticeship program with professional theatrical organizations for qualified seniors. Internships are open only to qualified seniors who have an overall grade point average of 2.50 or higher. Prerequisite(s): senior class standing and permission of department chair. S/U graded.