Theatre Arts (THA) - Courses

THA 110 Cr.2

Theatre Appreciation

A study of theatre as an art form. Emphasis on the role of the audience as collaborators in the performance and their understanding and appreciation of the elements of a theatrical production. Offered Fall, Spring, Summer.

THA 120 Cr.3

Acting for Non-Majors

This course is an introduction to the fundamentals of acting for non-theatre majors that emphasizes the development of the actor's instrument by introducing students to the basic imaginative, physical, and vocal skills necessary for performing in front of an audience. The students apply these techniques in an interactive studio setting. Offered Fall, Spring.

THA 130 Cr.3

Multicultural U.S. Drama and Theory

In this course, students study dramatic literature from multiple cultures within contemporary U.S. society. Texts highlights African American, Asian American, Indigenous, Arab American, Latin American, queer and trans, working and lower class, and disability cultures. Students analyze the plays and research their cultural contexts in order to enhance student awareness, exchange ideas about the multicultural history and culture of the U.S., and develop fluency with multicultural and intersectional methods of analysis. Offered Spring - Even Numbered Years.

THA 201 Cr.3

Dramatic Literature and Theatre Arts

From text to theatre, how does dramatic literature translate into live performance? To read plays is but one aspect of the art of drama. To create a theatrical performance from a playscript is to appreciate the full artistic potential of dramatic literature. International and multicultural theatre ranging from the classical to the contemporary will be the basis for explorations into the significance and beauty of the dramatic arts. An interdisciplinary approach in both content and method will be used as the dramatic literature is considered in the context of history and culture, literature and art. Offered Fall.

THA 210 Cr.3

Foundations of Theatrical Production

This course introduces the student to the fundamentals of theatre by exploring the theories and practices of production elements, script analysis and the specific goals, procedures and policies of the theatre arts department. Offered Fall.

THA 220 Cr.3

Acting I: Fundamentals

This course is an introduction to the fundamentals of acting for theatre majors and minors. Students learn the basics of beats, tactics, and objectives using multiple acting techniques. Students learn standard theatre terminology, blocking notation, rehearsal and performance practice, and the importance of creative collaboration. Offered Spring.

THA 222 Cr.3

Voice and Movement for the Stage

The course examines the theory and practice of the fundamentals of movement, gesture, and vocal production to serve as skillful and expressive means of communication on stage. The emphasis is on the student's awareness of the relationship between voice and body as the foundation of theatrical performance. Offered Fall.

THA 223 Cr.2

Foundations of Dance

An introduction to the field of dance, this course examines the ideas, concepts, and trends important to studies in dance through lecture, readings, studio experience, and discussion. This course provides an overview of Western dance forms and esthetics, professional standards and practices related to rehearsal/productions, career options in dance, basic human anatomy, injury prevention, and conditioning for dance. Lect. 1, Studio 2. Offered Fall - Even Numbered Years.

THA 225 Cr.2

Jazz Dance I

This course is an introduction to the fundamentals of jazz dance techniques and styles. As a technique, jazz dance incorporates rhythmic concepts, grounded movement qualities, with a sense of energy and excitement. Through physical practice, this course focuses on beginner level technique, vocabulary, style, musicality, and movement retention. Emphasis will be placed on proper alignment and body awareness for injury prevention. Lect. 1, Studio 2. Offered Spring - Even Numbered Years.

THA 226 Cr.2

Tap Dance I

This course is an introduction to the fundamentals of tap techniques and styles. Tap is a rhythmically and musically based dance experience. Through physical practice, this course focuses on beginner level techniques, rhythm, coordination, musicality, and movement retention. Emphasis is placed on proper alignment and technique for injury prevention. Lect. 1, Studio 2. Offered Fall - Odd Numbered Years.

THA 227 Cr.2

Ballet Dance I

This course is an introduction to the fundamentals of ballet techniques and styles. As a technique, ballet focuses on grace and fluidity while strengthening control and body awareness. Through physical practice, this course focuses on beginner level technique, vocabulary, coordination, movement retention, and musicality. Emphasis is placed on proper alignment and technique for injury prevention. Lect. 1, Studio 2. Offered Fall - Even Numbered Years.

THA 228 Cr.2

Modern Dance I

This course is an introduction to the fundamentals of modern techniques and styles. As a technique, modern dance focuses on grounded qualities, use of breath, and personal expression. Through physical practice, this course focuses on movement retention, coordination, and musicality. Emphasis is placed on proper alignment and technique for injury prevention. Lect. 1, Studio 2. Offered Spring - Odd Numbered Years.

THA 229 Cr.2

Musical Theatre Dance I

This course is an introduction to the fundamentals of techniques and styles employed by musical theatre. Students explore various dance styles through technical training to understand the artistic impact dance has on the musical theatre genre. Through physical practice, this course focuses on beginner level techniques, audition preparation, performance quality, and movement retention. Emphasis is placed on proper alignment and technique for injury prevention. Lect. 1, Studio 2. Offered Fall - Even Numbered Years.

THA 231 Cr.3

Stagecraft

Theory and practice of scenic construction. A study of the stage and its equipment; the planning, building and painting of scenery and the practical aspects of stage lighting. Offered Spring.

THA 232 Cr.3

Costume Crafts

Theory and practice of basic costume construction. Emphasis on the construction of stage costumes and accessories, including, but not limited to, basic pattern adaptation, millinery techniques, costume jewelry techniques and mask construction. Prerequisite: THA 210 for theatre majors and minors. Offered Spring - Even Numbered Years.

THA 240 Cr.3

Rendering for Theatre

This course will focus on the study of the elements and principles of rendering and their application to theatrical design. Students will focus on application of various rendering techniques used by scenic, costume, lighting and makeup designers in the creative process of interpreting a play script and translating it into visual form. Repeatable for credit - maximum six. Offered Fall - Odd Numbered Years.

THA 241 Cr.3

Stage Makeup

The theory and practice of the fundamentals of painted theatrical makeup, including various theatrical makeup materials and their applications. The course relies heavily on the imagination and creative skills of the student and includes research in physical analysis, character analysis, and color theory. Each student serves as the makeup designer for all projects in this course. Repeatable for credit - maximum six. Offered Fall - Even Numbered Years.

THA 250 Cr.3

Theatre History and Literature I: Origins to 1865

This course surveys theatre history and dramatic literature from its pre-historic origins to 1865, examining the development of drama, acting, architecture, and theatrical production and their relationship to social, cultural, and political contexts. Particular attention is paid to theatre's relationship to religion, secularization and the early-modern state, and national identity formation from the English Restoration through the American Civil War. Students also gain foundational skills for undertaking research in theatre studies through projects that explore questions on the course themes. The course focuses on western theatre but also includes case studies from Asia, Africa, and indigenous America to draw global connections and illustrate theatre's capacity to respond to geo-political specificity. Prerequisite: sophomore standing. Offered Fall.

THA 270 Cr.1-2

Music Theatre Vocal Study

Intensive study of the artistry of singing solo vocal musical theatre repertoire. Study will promote growth in and understanding of: musical theatre vocal technique, breath, body alignment, healthful use of the speaking voice, projection, diction and elocution for the stage. Technical work will be applied through study and performance of musical theatre repertoire. Attendance at a weekly studio class and final performance required. This course is intended for theatre majors pursuing an emphasis in music theatre, after completion of their applied voice requirement in their music minor. Repeatable for credit. Prerequisite: completion of applied voice requirement in music minor; theatre arts major-music theatre emphasis. Offered Fall, Spring.

THA 271 Cr.1-2

Singing for the Stage

Intensive study of the artistry of singing solo vocal musical theatre repertoire. Study will promote growth in and understanding of: musical theatre vocal technique, breath, body alignment, healthful use of the speaking voice, projection, diction and elocution for the stage. Technical work will be applied through study and performance of musical theatre repertoire. Attendance at a weekly studio class and final performance required. This course is available to theatre performance majors NOT pursuing an emphasis in music theatre. Repeatable for credit. Consent of instructor. Offered Fall, Spring.

THA 290 Cr.3

Stage Management for the Arts

This course will provide an introduction to Stage Management for the arts as well as a working understanding of the job of a stage manager. Emphasis on practical theory as well as the history of stage management will be combined with critical theories of running a production. The course will culminate in preparing students to stage-manage for a realized production. Offered Fall - Odd Numbered Years.

THA 304 Cr.3

History of Music Theatre

A survey of music theatre history and literature from origins to the present and its effect on popular culture, this course provides an understanding of the development of music theatre into the present day. Particular attention is given to the writers and composers who greatly influenced and/or continue to influence the development of this art form. Prerequisite: ENG 110. Offered Spring - Odd Numbered Years.

THA 305 Cr.3

History of Dance

This course offers a historical overview of the development and evolution of dance as we know it today, including its relation to society, culture, and the future of dance. This lecture-based course allows students to dive deeper into the history of many dance forms, conduct their own historical research, and develop their own personal sense of belonging in the dance community. Significant events, cultural importance, and controversies throughout the history of dance are examined. Through readings, research, and video recordings, students are introduced to the beginnings of dance in early cultures and folk dancing to the creation of ballet, and through the evolution of modern and jazz forms. Offered Spring - Even Numbered Years.

THA 310 Cr.3

Musical Theatre Techniques I

This course provides singer-actors with foundational skills in musical theatre performance, focusing on character development, musical theatre scene study, and audition techniques. Students deepen their understanding of musical theatre by studying its history and context and analyzing the score and text. The course offers opportunities to apply these insights in solo and small ensemble settings, enhancing students' abilities as performers. Prerequisite: THA 220. Offered Fall - Odd Numbered Years.

THA 311 Cr.2

Dance Improvisation

This course is the exploration of improvised movement through exercises and fundamentals. Through physical practice, students learn how to create movement in the moment and connect that movement to ideas, sounds, or concepts. By understanding the tools for movement generation, this introductory experience of dance improvisation works as a skill for developing the core conceptual elements of dance composition. Focus is placed on personal aesthetic and individuality. Prior dance training is not required. Lect. 1, Studio 2. Offered Spring - Odd Numbered Years.

THA 320 Cr.3

Acting II: Contemporary Scene Study

This course develops the actor's technique by building on the skills learned in Acting I and introducing multiple advanced acting practices. Students focus on creating subtext, finding emotional depth, and exploring collaborative acting methods. Students apply these techniques in scene work in a studio setting. Prerequisite: THA 220. Offered Spring.

THA 321 Cr.3

Acting III: Classical Acting Styles

This upper-level acting class focuses on the theory and practice of classical acting techniques including Shakespeare/Elizabethan theatre, English Restoration, Moliere, and the Comedy of Manners. Students develop the vocal, physical, and textual analysis skills necessary to performing heightened classical theatre. Prerequisite: THA 320. Offered Spring.

THA 324 Cr.3

Musical Theatre Techniques II

This course for singer-actors builds on the foundational skills established in Music Theatre Techniques I. Students enhance their vocal and physical storytelling abilities, focusing on character development and portrayal through multiple genres of musical scores. The course emphasizes a refined understanding of the vocal mechanism and explores the potential of vocal color and expression, while physicalizing character, to enrich storytelling. Students explore these insights through solo, duet, and small and large ensemble performance opportunities. Repeatable for credit - maximum six. Prerequisite: THA 310. Offered Fall - Even Numbered Years.

THA 325 Cr.2

Jazz Dance II

This course offers continued training in jazz dance technique. Through exercises, choreography, and discussions, students advance and strengthen their prior knowledge of jazz dance. Students learn intermediate techniques and proper alignment. Stylistic qualities are emphasized to encourage artistic development. Focus is placed on performance qualities, technical proficiency, rhythm, and tempos. Lect. 1, Studio 2. Prerequisite: THA 225. Offered Spring - Odd Numbered Years.

THA 326 Cr.2

Tap Dance II

This course offers continued training in tap dance. Through exercises, choreography, and discussions, students advance and strengthen their prior knowledge of tap. Students work on intermediate techniques, styles, and rhythms. Differences in movement quality, energy and rhythm will be explored. Stylistic qualities are emphasized to encourage artistic development. Focus is placed on performance qualities, technical proficiency, advanced rhythms, and tempos. Lect. 1, Studio 2. Prerequisite: THA 226. Offered Fall - Even Numbered Years.

THA 327 Cr.2

Ballet Dance II

This course offers continued training in ballet technique. Through physical practice, choreography, and discussions, students advance and strengthen their prior knowledge of the artform. Students work on intermediate level techniques, performance qualities, dynamics, and musicality. Stylistic qualities are emphasized to encourage artistic development. Focus is placed on proper alignment and technical proficiency. Lect. 1, Studio 2. Prerequisite: THA 227. Offered Fall - Odd Numbered Years.

THA 328 Cr.2

Modern Dance II

This course offers continued training in modern dance technique. Through exercises, choreography, and discussions, students advance and strengthen their prior knowledge of modern dance. This course provides students with advanced development and practice in the diverse styles of contemporary/classical principles of modern dance technique. Stylistic qualities are emphasized to encourage artistic development. Focus is placed on proper alignment, technical proficiency, weight shifting, and the connection to breath. Lect. 1, Studio 2. Prerequisite: THA 228. Offered Spring - Even Numbered Years.

THA 329 Cr.2

Musical Theatre Dance II

This course offers continued training in musical theatre dance. Students explore various dance styles through technical training to understand the artistic impact dance has on the musical theatre genre. Additionally, students focus on audition preparation, and an insight into the showmanship and performance of that choreography. Stylistic qualities are emphasized to encourage artistic development. Focus is placed on performance qualities, technical proficiency, and advanced rhythms. Lect. 1, Studio 2. Prerequisite: THA 229. Offered Fall - Odd Numbered Years.

THA 330 Cr.3

Scene Painting

Theory and practice of scene painting techniques for the theatre. By studying theories utilized by professional scenic artists, students will learn to interpret a designer's rendering or scaled elevation. Practical exercises will introduce students to the techniques necessary to reproduce the aesthetics of designer's renderings or scaled elevations as actual scenic pieces. Offered Fall - Even Numbered Years.

THA 331 Cr.3

Theatre Technology

The research and application of current technology in the theatre, including the exploration of new materials and construction techniques. The course will include an introduction to computer-Assisted drafting and design, the operation and maintenance of new technologies in the theatre facility, and the examination of health, safety, and liability issues. Prerequisite: THA 210, THA 231. Offered Fall - Even Numbered Years.

THA 340 Cr.3

Scenery Design

A course in the principles and practices of designing stage scenery. Emphasis is on developing the creative abilities of the designer. Offered Spring - Even Numbered Years.

THA 341 Cr.3

Lighting Design

An introductory course in the principles and practices of designing and executing stage lighting. Emphasis is on developing the creative abilities of the designer. Offered Fall - Odd Numbered Years.

THA 342 Cr.3

Sound Design

The course provides the student with a working knowledge of sound design for theatre. It emphasizes the creation of sound environments for theatre through the use of modern digital and physical sound technology. The course also covers basic acoustics through the lens of theatrical sound. Prerequisite: THA 210. Offered Spring - Odd Numbered Years.

THA/MUS 347 Cr.3

Sound Recording and Engineering

Students will explore the theory, methods, and technologies of live sound engineering and sound recording. Through hands-on projects, students will learn basic acoustics, sound technologies, live sound mixing, as well as the recording and digital editing of music. Lect. 2, Lab 2. Prerequisite: junior standing. (Cross-listed with MUS/THA; may only earn credit in one department.) Offered Spring - Even Numbered Years.

THA 350 Cr.3

Theatre History and Literature II: 1865 to the Present

This course surveys theatre history and dramatic literature from 1865 to the present, examining the development of drama, acting, and theatrical production and their relationship to social, cultural, and political contexts. Particular attention is paid to the variety of realist performances in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the explosion of anti-realist experimentation that followed, and the global and multicultural world of the late 20th and early 21st centuries. In addition to gaining further skills in historiographical analysis and methodology, students build on research and writing skills developed in Theatre History and Literature I, including the completion of an original argumentative research paper. Prerequisite: THA 250. Offered Spring.

THA 351 Cr.3

World Theatre

This course surveys and analyzes historical and contemporary theatre and performance forms in eastern Asia, the Indian subcontinent, the Middle East and North Africa, sub-Saharan Africa, and the indigenous cultures of the Americas. Particular attention is paid to theatre's relationship to local customs and philosophies, religious practices and beliefs, political and social contexts, and global cultural exchange. Prerequisite: sophomore standing. Offered Fall - Even Numbered Years.

THA 355 Cr.3

Dramaturgy

This course introduces students to the role of the dramaturg on a theatrical production. Students will learn to conduct historical, social, political, and cultural research and analysis, and develop best practices for sharing this information with actors, audiences, and creative teams in both print and digital formats. Prerequisite: THA 110 or THA 201 or THA 210 or THA 250. Offered Spring - Even Numbered Years.

THA/ENG 358 Cr.3

Scriptwriting

This course is designed for students interested in immersion into the practice of dramatic writing. In a collaborative atmosphere, students explore the fundamentals of plot, character, and setting as they write for stage, film, podcasts, or other narrative audio. Students read existing dramatic texts and complete regular exercises in dialogue, structure, theme, and conflict, working toward a longer final project. Students write, present their own work, and respond to pieces written by classmates. Prerequisite: ENG 110. Offered Fall - Even Numbered Years.

THA 360 Cr.1-3

Theatre Arts Practicum

Specialized, intensive study and participation in theatre. Projects are designed in consultation with a faculty adviser in the department. Repeatable for credit - no maximum. Consent of instructor. Offered Fall, Spring, Summer.

THA/ECO 376 Cr.3

Economics of Art and Entertainment

The overall goal of this course is to enable participants to make or evaluate selected decisions and policy issues pertaining to the arts and to better understand the unique status the arts hold in the American economy. Prerequisite: sophomore standing. (Cross-listed with ECO/THA; may only earn credit in one department.) Offered Spring - Odd Numbered Years.

THA 390 Cr.2

Advanced Stage Management

This course provides advanced study of the specific skills required of a stage manager on a theatrical production through discussion and hands-on projects designed to improve the student's understanding and execution of the leadership, organizational, and creative components of stage management. Repeatable for credit - maximum eight. Prerequisite: THA 290. Offered Fall.

THA 420 Cr.3

Directing

This course introduces students to the theory and practice of directing for the stage. Emphasis is placed on analysis, production preparation, rehearsal techniques, and ethnical collaboration for the presentation of realistic dramatic scenes. Prerequisite: THA 210; THA 220; THA 250 or THA 350. Offered Spring - Odd Numbered Years.

THA 421 Cr.3

Performance Studio

This advanced performance studio equips students with specialized skills and knowledge in a rotating series of topics: stage combat, intimacy direction, stage dialects and accents, and improvisation. In each iteration of the course, students practice and gain fluency with professional methodologies unique to the particular discipline under study. Repeatable for credit - maximum 12 credits. Prerequisite: THA 320. Offered Spring.

THA 422 Cr.3

Auditioning and the Business of Acting

This upper-level acting class focuses on preparing the performer for the professional theatre world. Students expand their range of repertoire and techniques for auditioning as well as develop the professional materials needed to sustain a career in performance. Prerequisite: THA 220, THA 320. Offered Fall.

THA 424 Cr.3

Composition of Dance

This course focuses on the core conceptual elements of movement creation and dance composition. Students use choreographic elements, tools, and principles to analyze and construct choreography. Through physical practice, students grasp the skills of composition with the use of improvisation, traditional dance technique, and pedestrian movements. Through this exploration, students develop their individual choreographic process and voice. Offered Fall - Odd Numbered Years.

THA 440 Cr.3

Costume Design/History

A course in the principles and practices of designing stage costumes. Emphasis on the creative capabilities of the designer with a working knowledge of historical periods used in stage costuming. Prerequisite: THA 210. Offered Spring - Odd Numbered Years.

THA 450 Cr.3-15

Internship in Theatre Arts

An academically relevant work experience focusing on career development through professional contexts. Students pursue practical applications of course work in community or professional theatre or related areas. A written project relating the internship experience to the academic preparation will be required. Credit depends on the demands and complexity and the duration of the work the student performs. Evaluation is a joint effort of the cooperating firm or group, the department supervisor, and the Cooperative Education Internship liaison. Note: three to six credit hours may count toward a theatre arts major. Prerequisite: 15 credits in THA; junior standing. Consent of department. Offered Fall, Spring, Summer.

THA 471 Cr.3

Playwriting

A study of the fundamentals of playwriting, with emphasis on creating stageworthy plots, characters, dialogue and spectacle, and finding venues for having plays produced. Course will culminate in the writing of a one-act or full-length play. Offered Occasionally.

THA 472 Cr.3

Theatre Management

The principles and methods involved in the operation of the non-commercial theatre: organization, play selection, building an audience, publicity, advertising, graphic reproduction, ticket sales, box office routines, house management, touring, and business records. Prerequisite: THA 110, with the exception of theatre arts majors and minors; junior standing. Offered Spring - Even Numbered Years.

THA 474 Cr.3

Advanced Studies in Arts Administration

This course provides advanced study in specific competencies required of an arts administrator including legal issues, arts policy, and audience development through discussion and hands-on projects. Offered Spring - Odd Numbered Years.

THA 481 Cr.1-3

Independent Study

Directed individual study under an assigned faculty member. Student is responsible for submitting study proposal for approval before registration. Repeatable for credit - no maximum. Prerequisite: junior standing. Consent of instructor. Offered Fall, Spring, Summer.

THA 482 Cr.1-3

Special Topics Theatre Arts

Workshops, directed individual readings, or projects involving significant content and/or activities not available through regular offerings within the Department of Theatre Arts. Repeatable for credit - no maximum. Consent of instructor. Offered Occasionally.

THA 490 Cr.3

Capstone Project in Theatre Arts

The Capstone project is an independent project that reflects the student's knowledge and abilities in theatre arts. It should integrate knowledge from coursework with practical experience in theatre production, and may focus on research, design, technical theatre, performance, directing, management or other area within theatre arts. The project should involve significant research, preparation, and presentation. The project may involve work in production, or in more traditional research. The student is responsible for developing and submitting a proposal for approval one semester in advance, under advisement of a faculty member in theatre arts. Prerequisite: senior standing. Consent of instructor. Offered Fall, Spring, Summer.

THA 491 Cr.1

Senior Capstone Performance Development

In this course students prepare for their senior capstone performance. Students conceptualize their show, select their performance pieces, create show posters, on-line ads, and other publicity materials, design their show programs, coordinate with their scene partners and tech/design teams, and rehearse their pieces with their senior show advisor. Repeatable for credit - maximum two credits. Prerequisite: junior standing. Consent of instructor. Offered Spring.

THA 492 Cr.2

Senior Capstone Performance

The capstone project is an independent project that reflects the student's knowledge and abilities in theatre arts. Students integrate knowledge from coursework with practical experience in theatre production and may focus on research, design, technical theatre, performance, directing, management, or other area within theatre arts. The project involves significant research, preparation, and presentation. The project may involve work in production or in more traditional research. The student is responsible for developing and submitting a proposal for approval one semester in advance, under advisement of a faculty member in theatre arts. Prerequisite: THA 491; senior standing. Consent of instructor. Offered Fall, Spring.