Drake University
Theatre Arts
Course Descriptions

4. TECHNIQUE OF ACTING 3 hrs.
Advanced scene work, including character analysis and methods of preparing a role; acting theories. Participation in student-directed scenes is required.

5. READINGS IN THEATRE 2 hrs.
A lecture-discussion format covering a cross section of Western plays, from Sophocles to Shepard.

9. AUDITIONING 1 hr.
Experience in the various kinds of audition settings. Included are prepared readings, cold readings, improvisations and interviews. Strong emphasis on preparing for auditions mentally and emotionally.

11. ENGLISH STAGE DIALECTS 1 hr.
The study of those dialects from the British Isles most likely to be encountered in period and contemporary plays, including Received Pronunciation (Standard English), Cockney, North Country, Irish, Scottish, Welsh and West Country.

14. MOVEMENT I 2 hrs.
Movement for the actor emphasizing skeletal alignment and correct body placement for the purpose of developing efficient, economical movement. The physical, emotional and psychological motivations of movement are explored. Stretch and strengthening, relaxation techniques, breath control, clarity of rhythm, dynamics and design of the body in space and time are studied at a beginning level through the following techniques: jazz, modern and ballet.

15. MOVEMENT II 2 hrs.
Continuance of Movement I advancing to more complex rhythm patterns of combinations of movement. Techniques: jazz, modern and ballet.

16. TUMBLING FOR THE THEATRE 1 hr.
An introduction to basic tumbling skills used in stage productions. Prereq.: THEA 14 and 15.

17. FENCING FOR THE THEATRE I 1 hr.
An introduction to fencing techniques and other elements of stage combat. Prereq.: THEA 14 and 15.

18. BEGINNING MODERN DANCE 2 hrs.
Emphasis on skeletal alignment and correct body placement for the purpose of developing efficient, economical movement. The physical, emotional and psychological motivations of movement are explored. Stretch and strengthening, relaxation techniques, breath control, clarity of rhythm, dynamics and design of the body in space and time are studied at a beginning level through the following techniques: jazz, modern, and ballet.

19. MIME I 1 hr.
The craft of silent dramatic communication. Realistic and "illusory" mime; the handling of imaginary objects, weight, shape and texture; creation of environment and physical characterization; improvised silent theatre emphasizing physical dexterity, speed and accuracy. Prereq.: THEA 14.

20. VOICE I 1 hr.
The training and use of the speaking voice for the stage and in public address, emphasizing correct posture, breathing, voice production and placement, articulation, tone, resonance and inflection.

21. VOICE II 1 hr.
Continuance of THEA 20, Voice I, with emphasis on oral interpretation and the vocal demands made by different dramatic writings, poetry and prose. Prereq.: THEA 20.

55. ADVANCED ACTING 3 hrs.
For students possessing the talent and ability to continue study of the art of acting; special emphasis given to characterization through study and laboratory practice; scenes from standard and classic plays used. Prereq.: THEA 3 and 4.

57-60. DANCE FOR THE THEATRE I, II, III, IV 2 hrs. each
Techniques: Humphrey-Limon and Graham. For the intermediate-advanced student dealing with the Humphrey-Limon technique: This technique is based on the principle of fall and recovery controlled by breath involving suspension and successional movement of body in time and space. Phrases of movement deal with increasingly complex rhythm patters; stretch and strengthening; examination and clarity of expression of the physical, emotional and psychological motivations guiding movements. For the intermediate-advanced student dealing with the Graham technique: This technique is based on contraction/release and spiraling of the body in time and space; stretch and strengthening; examination and clarity of expression of the physical, emotional and psychological motivations guiding movement.


61. STAGECRAFT I 3 hrs.
A study of the physical stage and methods of scenery construction, rigging and shifting. The mechanics of stage lighting are explored. Tools, materials and technique are taught through lectures, demonstrations and laboratory sessions. Lab is required.

61. STAGECRAFT I LAB 1 hr.
Laboratory work applying the principles taught in stagecraft to the department's productions. Six hours of lab time a week throughout the semester.

62. STAGECRAFT II 3 hrs.
Focus on the uses and manipulation of non-lumber construction materials; advanced construction methods and rigging; facility and scenic mechanics. Sound production and special effects are explored. Lab is required. Prereq.: THEA 61.

62. STAGECRAFT II LAB 1 hr.
Laboratory work applying the principles taught in stagecraft to class-related projects and elements of the department's productions. Six hours of lab time a week throughout the semester.

63. INTRODUCTION TO DESIGN FOR THEATRE 3 hrs.
An introductory study of scenic, costume and lighting design for the stage. Students study drafting, model making, rendering and the basics of script analysis. This course is highly recommended for theatre education students. Prereq.: THEA 61 and THEA 65 or consent of instructor.

65. COSTUMING 3 hrs.
Introductory study of costume design and practical construction techniques through demonstrations, projects and "hands-on" laboratory work. Costume lab is required, to be taken concurrently.

65. COSTUMING LAB 1 hr.
Required to be taken concurrently with THEA 65, Costuming. Practical applications of costume construction and design through active participation with departmental productions. Sixty hours of commitment required.

66. STAGE MAKEUP 2 hrs.
Study of various stage makeup techniques through assigned projects and practical applications. Emphasis is on designing makeup for an audience proximity of 30 feet.

*103. DIRECTING 3 hrs.
Study and production of basic units in the modern realistic play; directing theories; the directing of scenes.

*104. DIRECTING 3 hrs.
Study and production of extended units in modern realistic plays; introduction to directing of period plays; preparation of a longer piece. Prereq.: THEA 103.

*105. PLAYWRITING 3 hrs.
The writing of scenes and one-act plays. Experimental production of student manuscripts. By consent of instructor.

*106. PLAYWRITING 3 hrs.
The writing of one-act plays, screenplays and extended dramatic forms. Experimental production of student manuscripts. By consent of instructor.

117. CHOREOGRAPHY 3 hrs.
An exploration of the choreographic elements of motivation, design, rhythm, dynamics and phrasing. Students prepare short pieces of choreography, moving toward choreographic development of greater length. Renowned choreographers and their influence are examined.

*118. CREATIVE DRAMATICS FOR CHILDREN (FINE ARTS 118) 3 hrs.
Aimed especially at potential teachers. The uses of drama in the classroom as a developmental activity. Includes units on mime, improvisation, movement and spatial concepts, verbal and nonverbal communication, story-telling and the "illustrated story," and the use of creative drama as a teaching aid in other disciplines. A practical workshop class with regularly performed projects.

*120. THEATRE HISTORY TO 1660 3 hrs.
A survey of the development of the theatre from its ancient origins through the Elizabethan and Jacobean ages.

*121. THEATRE HISTORY SINCE 1660 3 hrs.
Continuance of THEA 120 from the English Restoration to the modern period.

123. AMERICAN MUSICAL THEATRE (FINE ARTS 123) 3 hrs.
A survey of American musical theatre, including historical development, influences from other countries and cultures, dominant composers, and an in-depth study of seminal works.

124-129. TECHNICAL THEATRE PRACTICUM 1-3 hrs.
Credit for active participation in the technical area of departmental production(s). Possible assignments include wardrobe, specialty makeup, design assistant, costume shop foreman, light and sound board operations, construction and design assistants, props master and crew, backstage run and fly crews.

130. DIRECTED INDEPENDENT STUDY IN THEATRE ARTS Arr.
By permission.

131-138. PROBLEMS IN ACTING 3 hrs.
A series of advanced acting courses. The material covered to be chosen from Brecht, Shakespeare, Farce, for the camera, Classic Theatre, 17th Century Drama, Musical Theatre and Experimental Techniques.

*140-147. ACTING PRACTICUM 1-3 hrs.
Development of roles within the departmental production program. By permission.

150. SOUND FOR THE THEATRE 3 hrs.
The student will study Sound Design for the Theatre. Creating and mixing sound effects, music and sound reinforcement for plays and musicals will be the main thrust of the course. Practical experience with typical analog sound equipment and tape as well as computer created and manipulated sound will be emphasized.
Prerequisites:Thea-161

160. THEATRE ORGANIZATION AND MANAGEMENT 3 hrs.
Study of the organization and operation of professional, educational and community theatres. Required laboratory work as stage managers, assistant stage managers or crew heads for departmental productions. Prereq.: THEA 61.

*161. SCENE DESIGN 3 hrs.
Theory of design, decoration and color applied to stage settings. Practice in mechanical drawing, sketching and building models of original designs for a variety of plays. Prereq.: THEA 63 or consent of instructor.

*162. STAGE LIGHTING 3 hrs.
Study of the principles of stage lighting design. Design projects include light plots for proscenium, thrust and arena stages. Script analysis and practical projects are emphasized. Laboratory work as design assistants, master electrician and lighting crew is required. Prereq.: THEA 62 or consent of instructor.

163. CAD FOR THEATRE 3 hrs.
This course introduces the student to the basics of computer-aided drafting and design. The student uses several Macintosh graphics software packages to learn how to use the computer as a conceptualization, visualization and drafting tool. Prereq.: THEA 61 or consent of instructor.

164. ADVANCED CAD 3 hrs.
This course is a continuation of Theatre 163- CADD for the Theatre. Emphasis will be shifted from drafting with the computer to using the computer as a conceptualization and presentation tool for theatrical designers. Various three dimensional modeling and painting programs will be studied and their use applied to design for the stage.
Prerequisites :Intro. to Design Theatre 161, CAD for the Theatre 163.

*165-169. PROJECTS IN THEATRE 1-3 hrs.
Tutored projects in production for the exceptionally qualified student. Admission upon presentation of suitable project outline.

*170. ACTING COMPANY 3 hrs.
The preparation of one or more productions over a semester, including workshops in developing skills needed for the productions. Registration by audition.

*171. ACTING COMPANY 3 hrs.
Continuance of THEA 170.

182. SEMINAR IN ADVANCED DESIGN 3 hrs.
Advanced research and projects in one or more of the following areas: scenery, lighting, sound, costumes, makeup, properties, theatre design and equipment. Prereq.: Consent of instructor.

183. SCENE PAINTING 2 hrs.
Tools, media and techniques of painting stage scenery. The class actively participates in the painting of three departmental productions. Lab hours required.

184. COSTUME DESIGN 3 hrs.
A concentrated study of costume design through project assignments relating to specific periods in Western history. Format includes slide presentations, lectures, discussions, critiques and concept meetings about specific texts. Prereq.: THEA 65 and 124.

Fine Arts (FA)

18. BEGINNING MODERN DANCE 2 hrs.
Introduction to the basic elements of modern dance, including design, dynamics, rhythm, tempo, phrasing and motivation.

75. CONTEMPORARY FILM 3 hrs.
Using the resources of videotape, Bulldog Theatre and local theatres, this course covers 10 to 15 current films. Emphasis is placed on developing critical skills to evaluate directing, writing, cinematography, special effects, and acting and editing. Extensive use of film clips to illustrate lectures. $20 viewing fee per semester.

76. INTRODUCTION TO THEATRE 3 hrs.
Theory, history and techniques of theatre. This course is not for theatre arts majors and is designed to increase appreciation of the theatre.

118. CREATIVE DRAMATICS FOR CHILDREN (THEATRE ARTS 118) 3 hrs.
Aimed especially at potential teachers. The uses of drama in the classroom as a developmental activity. Includes units on mime, improvisation, movement and spatial concepts, verbal and non-verbal communication, story-telling and the "illustrated story," and the use of creative drama as a teaching aid in other disciplines. A practical workshop class with regularly performed projects.


123. AMERICAN MUSICAL (THEATRE ARTS 123) 3 hrs.
A survey of American musical theatre, including historical development, influences from other countries and cultures, dominant composers, and an in-depth study of seminal works.

*174. MODERN THEATRE 3 hrs.
A course designed to help the student understand and appreciate the complicated objectives of the modern theatre. Starting with the revolts against realism, the student reads plays and essays that were important in determining the direction of the various fragmented movements.

---

Back to Drake Theatre Home Page Maintained by jp8521r@acad.drake.edu Last Modified: May 2, 1996