Theatre
THR101 Introduction to the Theatre - 2 credits
Fine Arts component of the General Education Curriculum Prerequisite to major/minor This course introduces the student to basic history, theory, production and performance elements of theatre arts. Students learn about theatre from many perspectives. In addition to studying primary and secondary materials, taking quizzes and/or tests, students participate in end of term individual or group projects. Attendance at area theatre productions required.
THR102 Acting for Non-Actors - 4 credits
This introductory acting class is designed for non-majors. Students will be introduced to principles of acting through improvisational exercises and development of short scenes. Helpful for anyone wishing to communicate effectively in a variety of situations including classroom, parish, and business.
THR111 Theatre in Practice I - 1 credit
Concordia's theatre department, in service to campus and community, offers opportunities for involvement in major theatre productions, workshop dramas, and various experimental undertakings during the school year. Auditions for all productions are open to all Concordia students. This course can include work on theatrical productions as actors and/or crews.
THR112 Theatre in Practice II - 2 credits
Credit is given for major involvement in theatre productions, workshops, and other approved situations. Major involvement is defined as activities such as stage managing, assistant directing, designing, and directing projects. (Prerequisite: consent of instructor)
THR160 Introduction to Dance - 2 credits
This course examines the fundatmental principles, practices, and vocabulary of the basic movement skills of dance, introducing it as both an art form and exercise activity. The basics of modern, ballet, and jazz dance movement will be incorporated to provide a wide overview of dance history and practical technique through readings and studio movement participation. Students will be introduced to each dance style with a focus on body awareness and alignment. Warm-ups and across the floor movement are incorporated to develp strenght, flexibility, musicality, and coordination.
THR201 Dance for the Musical Theatre - 2 credits
Through the study and practice of the various styles of dance used on the musical theatre stage, such as ballet, modern, jazz, and tap, this course focuses on dance technique, character development through movement, and performance skills. Execution and exploration of choreographed pieces from musical theatre repertoire will be taught and performed in a final Student Showcase. Students will be introduced to a wide dance vocabulary as well as to the major contributors/choreographers of Musical Theater. May be repeated once as an elective, which may count as a general elective or be credited to a theatre major.
THR203 Creative Dramatics - 2 credits
Students enrolled in this course study and practice methods and activities in creative dramatics for the classroom, parish, business, and family. Special emphasis is placed on activities designed to help students to express their own natural creativity and for these students, as future leaders of groups, to help others to express their own natural creativity as well.
THR221 Acting I - 4 credits
Through improvisation, monologue, and scene work, students learn and develop the basic techniques for approaching the acting process. These include relaxation, imagination, spontaneity, concentration, character analysis, and using the voice, face, and body to assist in creating a complete and complex character.
THR224 Shakespeare in Performance - 4 credits
This course is for theatre and non-theatre students who have an interest in exploring a sampling of Shakespeare's plays in production. The class will examine elements of production and visioning the plays through watching videos, reading plays, attending live performance, and working in small groups with selected scenes from acting, directing, and design perspectives. No prerequisite.
THR226 Voice and Diction - 2 credits
This course is suitable for students who wish to increase their proficiency in spoken Standard American English for personal or professional reasons. Foundations of a healthy vocal technique based on breath, relaxation of the body and proper support are established. Students learn elementary physiology of the vocal mechanism leading to sound production. Creation of consonants and vowels is undertaken with the purpose of proper production, placement and clarity.
THR241 Script Analysis - 4 credits
Students will analyze a variety of performance texts from differing perspectives. A traditional approach incorporating literary analysis to understand the internal workings of the text on paper, will be combined with an examination of the text as it may be translated into performance, from the perspectives of the designer, director and actor.
THR251 Stagecraft - 4 credits
The course provides an introduction to the scope, tools, materials and practices of stagecraft and technical management in the theatre today. The course utilizes formal lectures, group discussion, outside projects, attendance at outside theatre productions and practical lab sessions to cover the material presented.
THR253 Makeup for the Stage - 2 credits
Fundamentals of two and three-dimensional stage make-up through character analysis, design and application. Extensive practical experience through laboratory and possible crew work on departmental productions. Each student will be required to purchase his or her own makeup materials.
THR255 Stage Management - 2 credits
This course is an introduction to the concepts, principles, and practices of stage management in the contemporary theatre. Students will receive classroom instruction on the theory and practice of stage management, participate in workshop application of stage management techniques, and participate in departmental productions. Students will study a major text in stage management as well as develop a stage manager's portfolio.
THR262 Modern Dance Technique I - 2 credits
Students are introduced to the basic movements, concepts, and technique of modern dance with a focus on breath, strength, alignment, and flexibility. Students learn about the pioneers of modern dance (Loie Fuller, Isadora Duncan, Ruth St. Denis, Doris Humphrey, Martha Graham) as well as the current contributors to the dance form, regarding their stylistic contributions and differences. Reading assignments and quizzes are given in addition to the technique class. Students learn and perform a modern dance piece during the semester and perform in a final student showcase.
THR263 Jazz Dance Technique I - 2 credits
This course introduces and practices the basic movement, dance terminology and style of jazz dance technique, focusing on stretch, strength, body awareness, rhythmic ability, and coordination. An appreciation and study of the origins and evolution of jazz dance, along with its major contributors, is emphasized. The technique class focuses on jazz dance vocabulary and steps, isolations, center combinations, and across the floor patterns. Students learn a choreographed jazz dance and perform in a final student showcase.
THR270 Computer Assisted Design - 2 credits
This course introduces the use of computers and computer software in the arts. The use of the personal computer in the production process as it relates to design and technical production is explored.
THR291 Topics in Theatre - 1-4 credits
This course offers in-depth analysis of a selected topic in theatre such as film, children's theatre, drama in worship, stage management, or theatre management in a seminar setting. The needs of students and interest of theatre faculty determine content.
THR301 New York Theatre Tour - 2 credits
Faculty lead a one-week exploration of contemporary theatre in New York City. Participants attend several productions and participate in discussions following each performance. Tour is scheduled during the second week of January even numbered years. Additional fee for housing and transportation. A reaction paper is required at the conclusion of the tour.
THR302 London Theatre Tour - 2 credits
Faculty lead an exploration of theatre in London. Participants attend several productions and visit historic literary sites. Students participate in 3-4 days of seminars at the Shakespearian Globe Theatre. Participants need to prepare at least one Shakespeare monologue to use as part of the seminar training at the Globe. Duration of the tour is approximately 8 days. Tour is scheduled during the second week of January odd numbered years. Additional fee for housing and transportation. A reaction paper is required at the conclusion of the tour.
THR321 Acting II - 4 credits
Further principles in developing a character are learned through more monologue and scene work. Advanced techniques of breathing, rhythm, focus and facial mask are taught to help the student explore the field of potential and lead the actor out of the known and into the unknown. (Offered every other year. Prerequisite: THR221 or consent of instructor)
THR324 Voice and Movement for Actors - 4 credits
During the first 7 weeks of the course, students explore the mechanics and elements of movement, including an examination of non-verbal communication, neutral and character mask work, and the creation of physical characterizations. During the last 7 weeks of the course, students establish the foundations of a healthy vocal technique based on breath, relaxation of the body, and proper vocal support. (Prerequisite:THR221 or consent of instructor)
THR326 Voice, Diction & Dialects - 2 credits
Students learn production and placement of sound through various exercises, leading to character development. Students also are introduced to techniques for learning a foreign dialect.
THR328 Acting for the Camera - 4 credits
The purpose of this course is to increase the camera acting skills of the student by raising the actor's ability to understand, negotiate, and use the video production process. Students demonstrate growth in camera acting skills measured by rehearsal and video taped performance. (Prerequisite: THR221 Acting I)
THR355 Scenic Design - 4 credits
This course is an introduction to the theory and techniques of scenery design. Three subject areas are combined to formulate the scope of the course: literature analysis, aesthetic design--techniques and materials, pragmatic design--production, and organization. Attendance at area theatre productions is required. Laboratory hours required. (Prerequisite: THR251 or consent of instructor)
THR356 Costume Design - 4 credits
This course will be an introduction to the art and practice of costume design. Emphasis will be on analysis of the costume design process and organization from script to design concept to the workable costume for the actor. Attendance at area theatre productions is required. Laboratory hours required. (Prerequisite: THR251 or consent of instructor)
THR357 Lighting and Sound - 4 credits
This course is an introduction to the theory and the techniques of lighting and sound design for the stage. Three subject areas in both aspects of theatre are discussed in this course: basic understanding and connection of the equipment, basic design, and a basic understanding of the aesthetics of sound and lighting design. Laboratory hours required. (Prerequisite: THR251 or consent of instructor)
THR364 Tap Dance Technique I - 2 credits
This course is an introduction to the fundamental vocabulary and technique of tap dance, its history as as art form, and its major contributors to the style. Students learn a basic technical foundation, with an empahasis on the building block steps (spank, shuffle, flap, cramp roll, Shim Sham, Maxie Ford) while also concentrating on proper articulation and execution of movement. Students work on a choreographed routine and perform in a final student showcase.
THR365 Dance History I - 2 credits
A survey of dance history from origins in ancient civilizations up to the twentieth century, this course examines the function of dance in a social, political, religious, and cultural context. Through text reading, research projects, and viewing, students analyze the development of dance, its significance and role in history.
THR366 Choreography/Composition I - 2 credits
This course explores the process of dance making, by studying the principles of composition and the thematic development and organization of movement material. Students work on and study basic choreographic elements and principles (rhythm, space, time, dynamics) using movement exploration, improvisation, and other creative skills to develop compositions, with a concentration on solo or small group dances, which are performed in a final student showcase. (Prerequisites: THR160, THR201)
THR367 Ballet Technique I - 2 credits
This course introduces the basics of classical ballet. Students learn the basic positions of the feet and arms, fundamental ballet steps, and French terminology, through barre exercises, center floor work, and across the floor patterns. This class also emphasizes ballet vocabulary and style, proper body alignment, strength, flexibility, and musicality. Students learn a choreographed ballet piece and perform in the final student showcase. (Prerequisite: THR160)
THR428 Techniques for the Singer/Actor - 4 credits
This course is designed for actors who sing and singers who act and the directors who direct them. The core of the course focuses on techniques to release tensions and habits that limit the body, face, and voice and the ways in which these elements work together when the performer is singing. These techniques extend the range of a performer and enrich, expand, and set free the total performance that lies within the singer. (Prerequisite: THR221 or consent of instructor)
THR445 Theatre History, Theory, and Literature I - 4 credits
A survey course covering the history, theory and literature of theatre from the beginnings of performance up to the early Renaissance in the west. Readings of primary sources are combined with secondary sources such as criticism, videos, and attendance at live theatre events to form a theoretical and historical context for specific periods of development and specific dramatic works.
THR446 Theatre History, Theory, and Literature II - 4 credits
A survey course covering the history, theory and literature of theatre starting from the Renaissance in the west up to modern theatre of "performance" in the variety of contexts we may study today. Readings of primary sources is combined with secondary sources such as criticism, video, and attendance at live theatre events to form a theoretical and historical context for specific periods of development and specific dramatic works.
THR462 Modern Dance Technique II - 2 credits
This course is a continuation of the study of movement skills taught in THR262, with an emphasis on further developing strength, flexibility, and vocabulary of principles of modern dance. Students work on more complex combinations, increased technical skills, and refined movement phrasing. Along with increased technical articulation and clarity of movement, students work to develop artistic expression, stylization, musicality, and performance skills. A choreographed modern piece is taught and performed in a final student showcase. (Prerequisite: THR262)
THR463 Jazz Dance Technique II - 2 credits
This course is a further study of the movement skills, vocabulary, and principles of jazz dance style taught in THR263. Students work on more advanced rhythms, combinations, individual expression and artistry through choreographed pieces that are performed in a final student showcase. Special emphasis is placed on increased strength, flexibility, increased technical skills, and performance ability. (Prerequisite: THR263)
THR464 Tap Dance Technique II - 2 credits
A continuation of the study of tap technique taught in THR364, this course builds on that basic foundation and focurses on more complex steps (time step combinations, pull backs, turns), various rhythms, and advanced combinations. Students work to increase articulation, clarity, speed, vocabulary of steps, and performance skills through technique class and through learning choreography that is performed in the final student showcase. This course is a general elective.(Prerequisite: THR364)
THR465 Dance History II - 2 credits
This course examines some of the influential choreographers and works of the 20th Century from the early pioneers of modern dance such as Loie Fuller, Isadora Duncan, Ruth St. Denis, and Doris Humphrey, through post modernism and the works of major contributors such as George Balanchine, Martha Graham, Alvin Ailey, Merce Cunningham, Twyla Tharp, Mark Morris, and others. Areas of study, through viewing, reading, lecture and discussion, and research projects include dance criticism, identification of 20th Century dance themes, aesthetics, music, and styles.
THR466 Choreography/Composition II - 2 credits
This course is a further study and practice of the dance composition techniques. The class investigates areas of the creative process, methods of dance-making, exploration of new movement material, and compositional tools, implementing music and dance, dance criticism, and aspects of contemporary dance history. Through lectures, viewing, reading and research projects, students analyze choreography and apply various components to developing threir own studies in solo, duet, and trio works which are performed in a final student showcase. (Prerequisite: THR366)
THR467 Ballet Technique II - 2 credits
This course is a further study and practice of classical ballet technique and expands students' work upon material taught in THR367. With a focus on body alignment, increased strength and flexibility, and technical accuracy and proficiency, this class concentrates on more complex movement variations, increased ballet vocabulary, individual expression, artistry in execution of movement, and performance quality. Along with a complete barre and technique class, students work on choreographed pieces that are performed in a final student showcase. This course is an elective. (Prerequisite: THR367)
THR468 Special Topics in Dance - 2 credits
This course is designed to explore other topics and dance techniques in this discipline. The student may seek to develop skills learned in previous courses or the student may choose a completely different area of dance as desired. This is offered by the instructor on an "as needed" basis. The instructor establishes learning outcomes, teaching techniques, and assessment according to the students' needs.
THR478 Directing - 4 credits
Studio course focusing on the basic fundamentals of stage direction. Script analysis and directorial concepts are executed throughout the semester in preparation for a final prepared performance in the form of a one act play or excerpt from a full-length play. As directing requires knowledge of many aspects of the theatrical art, this course is seen as a culminating activity taken after a solid foundation of other theatre course work. Attendance at area productions is required. (Prerequisite: THR241)
THR488 Independent Study in Theatre - 4 credits
Studio course focusing on the basic fundamentals of stage direction. Script analysis and directorial concepts are executed throughout the semester in preparation for a final prepared performance in the form of a one act play or excerpt from a full-length play. As directing requires knowledge of many aspects of the theatrical art, this course is seen as a culminating activity taken after a solid foundation of other theatre course work. Attendance at area productions is required. (Prerequisite: THR241)
THR492 Drama in the Life of the Church - 4 credits
A comprehensive survey of the methods of incorporating drama in the life of the church. Students will be given a brief overview of the history and theory of drama in the church. The main thrust of the course will be dedicated to the writing, designing, building, acting, directing and producing original Christian dramas by the students to be incorporated into their specific area of church work (Director of Christian Outreach, Director of Christian Education, Pastor, layperson). Rehearsal outside of class and performance in campus chapel is required.
THR498 Theatre Internship - 4-16 credits
Students participate in a first hand theatre experience at a local professional or semi-professional theatre. The student, through observation and/or direct involvement, learns practical application of drama theories and theatrical principles. The student and internship advisor select an appropriate internship site that meets the needs and interests of the student. (Prerequisite: Consent of advisor and department chair)
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