Courses

Students must participate fully as an actor or stage manager in the semester's mainstage production.

Students must participate fully as an actor or stage manager in the semester's mainstage production.

Students must participate fully as an actor or stage manager in the semester's ensemble production.

Students must participate fully as an actor or stage manager in the semester's ensemble production.

An introductory course orienting students toward open and aggressive participation in performance. Utilizing theatre games, relaxation techniques, experiential exercises and improvisation, students build sensory knowledge of the human experience and create/interpret scripted scenes through imaginative inquiry into given circumstances, character, relationship, objectives, and actions. The insight and understanding students gain through building sensory knowledge of their own feelings, voices, and bodies and then translating that knowledge while constructing the experience of another human being builds an appreciation and empathy for the meaning and values of other people.

Introduction to scene study and character development. Students learn the building blocks of effective acting by applying foundational acting theory to improvisation, scenes, and monologues. Students are expected to offer thoughtful critique of others' work, a vital part of the learning process.

The emphasis in this course is freeing the voice and body to communicate effectively. Students are encouraged to discover their own gifts and abilities, to become comfortable with their voice and body, and to establish a foundation for future growth and development. Both voice and movement work are based on discovering proper alignment and a neutral position from which to explore. Voice work is designed to teach proper vocal warm-up; voice care and support; and elements of resonance, articulation, and projection. Physical movement exercises include activities designed to increase body awareness, flexibility, emotional connection, and expressiveness. All voice and body work emphasizes the integration of the actor's instrument, the individuality of each person, and the necessity for authentic embodied communication. Discoveries will be applied to acting work in class and on stage, and to everyday life, as self-presentation affects both public perception and self-image.

A seminar for students in all levels of the program, as well as students involved in productions. The class incorporates analysis and critique of productions viewed, as well as discussion of topical issues in theatre. Particular attention is given to integration of faith and art and preparation for a life in the theatre

Students apply principles learned in THTR 161 and THTR 162 to the preparation and presentation of scenes from contemporary plays. Script analysis, character development, subtext, action, and objective are explored through personalized coaching.