http://www.whitworth.edu/theatre
Our Mission
Whitworth Theatre is a collaborative training ground for storytellers, performers and theatre-makers. We believe theatre is rooted in the investigation of the diversity of the human experience and can only be successful when it is actively anti-racist and disavows all forms of oppression. Through rigorous personalized study, students learn to amplify their voices and articulate meaningful connections between the art they create and the beliefs they hold.
Learning Outcomes
- Apply basic production and performance skills.
- Use reflection on artistic choices and impact as well as external feedback as well as external feedback as tools for improving both process and products.
- Respond critically and empathetically to performance and texts, with consideration of historical, cultural and sociological contexts.
- Effectively employ communication skills and habits appropriate to the profession, including oral presentation and writing.
- Articulate meaningful connections between worldview and identity as theatre makers.
FA Courses
| FA 101 Introduction to the Fine Arts | 3 |
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Integrates the disciplines of art, music, theatre and dance into an examination of the fine-arts experience. Examines elements, media, expressiveness. Periodic. |
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| FA 300 British Culture through the Arts | 3 |
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Experience various aspects of English theatre and British culture through three weeks in London. Students are required to visit museums, art galleries, cathedrals, universities and other places of historical and cultural significance, as well as multiple chosen theatre and music events. Priority will be given to junior/senior students. Periodic. |
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| FA 301 Power and Politics of Art: Italy/Germany | 3 |
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Exploration of the arts (primarily visual arts and music) in Rome, Florence, and Berlin, with emphasis on the arts in relation to history, culture, and political systems. Jan Term, odd years. |
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| FA 304 The Arts in Christian Worship | 3 |
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Explore the ways that the arts have shaped and been shaped by Christian worship practice from the early church to the present, through study in Rome, Taize, and London. Students will visit cathedrals, museums, and other places of historical and cultural significance. Jan Term, even years. |
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| FA 305 Christianity and the Arts in Italy | 3 |
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This course will lead students to the following Italian cities: Milan, Venice, Florence, Siena, Assisi and Rome. The goals of this program are to study and analyze historical and religious developments of Christianity in Italy with an additional emphasis on Christian fine arts. Students will face important political, religious and artistic issues that have shaped Italian Christianity and culture in the past and present. Periodic. |
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| FA 309 Power and Politics of Art Prep Course | 1 |
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A survey of European art, history, and culture for students enrolled in the Jan Term Power and Politics of Art study program. Fall semester, even years. Must be accepted for Jan Term Power and Politics of Art study program. |
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| FA 365 Fine Arts Culture in Britain | 4 |
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Taught when a faculty member from the Whitworth Theatre, Music or Art & Design Department is part of the study program to the British Isles. Periodic offering. |
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TA Courses
| TA 100 Introduction to Theatre | 3 |
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An introduction to theatre history, literature, criticism, and the practicalities of creating theatre, with particular emphasis upon its cultural and social influences on society. Spring and Fall. Fulfills-Fine Arts. |
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| TA 110 Introduction to Dance | 1 |
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Basic concepts and principles of jazz, modern, and ballet. This course is designed for the non-dancer student seeking to explore dance in a safe learning environment. Also listed as PE 110. Fulfills-Physical Wellness; Emotional Wellness Tag. |
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| TA 116 Theatre in Community | 3 |
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An introduction to theatre in a community context. Includes study of at-risk student populations, urban poverty, and playwriting as a tool for social change. Practical application of skills and knowledge in Spokane public school. Jan Term, even years. |
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| TA 130 Private Lessons | 1-2 |
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Individual instruction arranged with members of the theatre faculty. All theatre majors must enroll for private lessons concurrently with TA 498, Senior Project. Arrangements by non-majors must be made with the department before registering for private lessons. Fall and spring semesters. Fee. |
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| TA 137 Modern Dance I | 2 |
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Analysis and theory of modern dance with an emphasis on basic technique and movement exploration. Includes a study of the evolution of modern dance and its past and present pioneers. May be repeated. Fall semester. May count as ONE PE activity course. Also listed as PE 137. Fulfills-Fine Arts & Physical Wellness; Emotional Wellness Tag. |
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| TA 143 Ballet I | 2 |
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Beginning instruction in classical ballet focusing on vocabulary and technique. Includes barre and center exercises designed to develop coordination, balance, flexibility and strength. Fall semester. May count as ONE PE activity course. Also listed as PE 143. Fulfills-Fine Arts, Physical Wellness; Emotional Wellness Tag. |
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| TA 145 Theatre Production | 1 |
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Instruction and performance on stage or backstage in a major theatre production. TA 145 is specifically for students completing their first mainstage production of their Whitworth career. Registration for credit in TA 145 is contingent upon a successful audition or permission granted for backstage work. Graded S/NS. |
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| TA 152 Cross Training With Dance Conditioning | 1 |
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This course uses the fundamental practices of dance to educate, inspire and transform the body for optimal physical health. Students will engage with dance practices to strengthen and lengthen the body; improving muscle tone, flexibility, and physical performance. Dancers, athletes, and anyone wanting to improve the overall health and performance of their body, will benefit from this course. Fulfills-Physical Wellness. Also listed as PE 152. |
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| TA 156 Physical Theatre | 1 |
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An applied, movement-based class exploring contact improvisation, self-expression, the body in space, and the body in relationship to others. Students will be introduced to various practitioner's training methodologies and learn to develop their own movement practice. Also listed as PE 156. Fulfills-Physical Wellness. |
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| TA 183 Jazz Dance I | 2 |
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This course is a first level study of jazz dance. Students will explore this art form through monthly lectures on the history of jazz, physical exploration of the unique aspects of jazz, and strengthen individual understanding of fundamental jazz dance vocabulary, technique and choreography. Fall semester. May count as ONE PE activity course. Also listed as PE 183.Fulfills - Fine Arts, Physical Wellness; Emotional Wellness Tag. |
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| TA 184 Physicality and Spiritual Formation | 2 |
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The course seeks to offer students opportunities to explore the biblical, historical and experiential connection of prayer, posturing and movement. An overview of embodied prayers and movement meditations will be presented. Periodic Jan Term. Also listed as PE 184 and TH 184. Fulfills - Physical Wellness; Emotional Wellness Tag. |
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| TA 215 Film Performance & Production | 3 |
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The purpose of this course is to give students an in depth understanding of how to translate their stage acting experience into skills that can be used on both sides of the camera. Students will develop a vocabulary for communication within the craft of screen acting and will gain an understanding of how the camera affects and guides their performance. Working on both sides of the camera as film directors and screen actors, camera/shot design basics, on-set terminology and protocol, and reading a screenplay will all be covered. Practicum in auditioning, rehearsing, on-set performance and directing techniques will be emphasized. Also listed as FVNS 215. Periodic. |
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| TA 216 Modern Drama | 3 |
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A survey of modern drama including major movements, playwrights, and representative plays from 1900 to the present. International in scope, with attention to the ways that plays emerge from, reflect, contend with, and contribute to culture. Please watch the following video for more information: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jHAoEfiY6bw& feature=youtu.be"target="_blank">TA-216</a> Also listed as EL 216. Fulfills - Culture & Diversity, Lit. & Storytelling |
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| TA 217 Mask-Making | 3 |
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Hands-on application of the design and production concepts and techniques of theatrical mask making including experimentation with a variety of artistic mediums. Jan Term, periodic. Fee. |
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| TA 219 Multicultural American Theatre | 3 |
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A multicultural exploration of underrepresented theatre artists in the US. Through play reading, performance viewing, and creating original work, students will engage with and analyze artistic expression from at least two (and often more) perspectives from within the US cultural context. African American, Asian American, Latinx, LGBTQ+, and/or Native American plays are often featured. |
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| TA 220 Art At Large | 3 |
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Introductory exploration of the production techniques and painting skills utilized in the creation of large-scale two-dimensional artwork combining creative expression and collaboration. Jan Term, Periodic. Fee. |
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| TA 230 Private Lessons | 1-2 |
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See TA 130. |
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| TA 231 Performance Theory and Practice | 3 |
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Students create solo and group performances in non-traditional styles. Emphasis on both practical skill-building and theoretical understanding of performance. Periodic. Fulfills -Fine Arts, Oral Communications. |
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| TA 236 Hip Hop | 2 |
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An intermediate level course focused on challenging students to explore multiple styles and levels of hip hop dance. Students will learn the following styles of dance including: hip hop, breaking, popping, locking, and contemporary hip hop through classroom warm-ups, choreography and instructional videos. As this course is performance based, students are required to perform and the majority of class-time will be spent on learning and polishing choreography. Spring semester, even years. Also listed as PE 236. Fee. Fulfils - Physical Wellness; Emotional Wellness Tag. |
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| TA 237 Tap | 2 |
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Instruction in tap dancing focusing on vocabulary and technique. All levels of experience welcome. Spring semester, periodic offering. Also listed as PE 237. Fulfills Fine Arts and Physical Wellness. Emotional Wellness Tag. |
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| TA 245 Theatre Production | 1 |
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See TA 145. |
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| TA 250 Production Management | 3 |
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Introduction to the principles and practices of stage and production management for theatre and the related performing arts. Emphasis on management style, facilitating communication and conflict management. Fall semester, even years. |
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| TA 270 Stage Makeup & Costume Construction | 2 |
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An introduction to the art of stage makeup. Lab experience includes brief explanations and demonstrations followed by student applications. Enrollment is limited. Spring semester. Fee. |
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| TA 273 Acting: Fundamentals | 3 |
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Learn to live truthfully under the imaginary circumstances of a play. The objective is for the student to become an intelligent actor, able to analyze and critique a script, develop a character, and respond to a directors coaching. Enrollment is limited. Also listed as FVNS 273. Fall and spring semesters. |
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| TA 274 Environment and Performance | 3 |
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Explore our relationships with the land we inhabit through engagement with indigenous elders, artists, scientists, and the land itself. Learning will culminate in original performance pieces, crafted in response to and in dialogue with the ecosystem encountered. Most class days spent partially or entirely outside. |
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| TA 275 Stagecraft I | 3 |
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This course will provide an introduction to terms,tools and equipment utilized in technical theatre including, but not limited to, scenic construction, basic lighting, and sound. Fee. |
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| TA 276 Improvisational Acting | 3 |
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Learn exercises and techniques leading to self-discovery in the releasing of creative potential. Experience problem-solving games and activities and perform before various audiences. Spring semester. (Also listed as FVNS 276) Fee. |
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| TA 277 Design & Production: Lighting & Sound | 3 |
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A project-based course introducing the principles, methods, historical development, and evolution of lighting and sound design. Includes exploration of the design process, script analysis, visual research skills, and the application of design principles. The format of the course includes demonstrations of design tools & techniques, project lab sessions, discussion of design theory and practices, and peer critiques of the process and projects. Fall semester, odd years. Fee. |
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| TA 278 Design & Production: Scenic & Costume | 3 |
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A project-based course introducing the principles, methods, and development of scenic and costume design and production. Includes exploration of the design process, script analysis, research skills, and application of design principles. The format includes tool and technique demonstration, project lab sessions, theory and practice discussion, and peer critiques. Fall semester, even years. Also listed as FVNS 278. Fee. |
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| TA 279 Voice for the Performer | 2 |
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Training in the effective use of the speaking voice for public performance. Limited to theatre majors; others by permission. Spring semester. Also listed as FVNS 279. |
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| TA 280 Theatre History | 3 |
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The history of theatre's relationship to society from antiquity to contemporary times. Using plays from a global canon as primary sources, students interrogate theatrical heritage, evaluate various works of dramatic literature within the cultural context of their creation, and by develop and apply the skills of historical and dramaturgical inquiry to the creative process. Fall semester, even years. |
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| TA 283 Musical Theatre Dance | 2 |
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Examination of the unique history of musical theatre. Students study the techniques and choreographic styles required for performance in musicals. The culminating project is a public performance. Spring semester, odd years. Also listed as PE 283. Fee. |
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| TA 301H New York City: Behind the Curtain | 3 |
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Explore culture, history and arts in New York City, from the artist's point of view. Students are exposed to a variety of art forms, including music, visual art, film, dance and theatre. It also includes a participatory, skill-building experience, in which students work with NYC arts professionals to learn theatre skills. Jan Term study tour, periodic. |
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| TA 302 Healthcare Theatre | 1 |
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This course is an introduction to the use of theatre in healthcare. Simulated patients, portrayed by healthcare students or trained actors, are frequently utilized in healthcare education to improve both clinical skills and interpersonal communication. Students will engage in simulation and activities designed to enhance empathy, patient-provider communication skills, and development/portrayal of characters with medical conditions. Also listed as HS 302. Spring periodic. |
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| TA 303 Entertainment Rigging | 3 |
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An exploratory course focused on both mathematical and hands-on understanding of rigging practices. Introducing theatrical rigging practices and technologies in the entertainment industry. Emphases are on the development of basic rigging knowledge, rigging math, and an awareness of safe rigging techniques. Spring semester even years. |
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| TA 305 Applied Stagecraft | 2 |
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Applied Stagecraft is an advanced course that will provide training in professional Stagecraft skills including: computer aided drafting for scenic and lighting production, advanced scenic and properties construction techniques. Through demonstration and hands-on experience, students will further develop understanding of the different crafts and language utilized by a technical theatre artist. |
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| TA 311 Playwriting | 3 |
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Fundamentals of playwriting. Students will learn playwriting by analyzing scripts, writing scenes and short plays, and workshopping with peers. Prerequisite: Writing I. Periodic offering. |
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| TA 314H Church Drama | 3 |
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This course involves study of classic and contemporary drama used in Christian worship. Students will engage in biblical text study, critical writing, playwriting, and performance of original theatre on campus and in area churches. Periodic. |
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| TA 316 Devising | 3 |
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A practical study of devising concepts and practices. As a group, students will devise and perform an original piece of theatre. Periodic. Fulfills - Fine Arts, Culture & Diversity, United States Diversity Tag. |
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| TA 330 Private Lessons | 1-2 |
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See TA 130. |
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| TA 335 American College Dance Festival Intensive | 2 |
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Development of dance fundamentals and performance strategies. Exposure to a collection of diverse dance techniques, warm-up and cool-down exercise, locomotor development and innovative choreography. Required for ACDF participants. Open to other students with instructor permission only. Prerequisite: TA/PE-137, TA/PE-143 or TA/PE-183. |
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| TA 337 Modern Dance II | 2 |
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This course will provide instruction and performance experiences in advanced principles and techniques of Modern Dance. This is a performance-based course. Spring semester, even years. Also listed as PE 337. Fee. Fulfills - Fine Arts, Physical Wellness. |
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| TA 342 Principles of Movement | 2 |
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Students will be given tools to understand then connect the anatomy and physiology of the body to theatre and dance. The performance of practical exercises will allow application of the knowledge earned. Spring, Even Years. |
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| TA 343 Ballet II | 2 |
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Ballet II - An intermediate level course in classical ballet focusing on technique, choreography and the dancer's individual artistry. Includes barre and center exercises designed to further develop coordination, balance, flexibility and strength. Prerequisite: TA/PE-143, TA 243 or instructor permission. Spring semester odd years. Also listed as PE 343. Fee. Fulfills - Fine Arts, Physical Wellness. Fee. |
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| TA 344 Theatre Across the Curriculum | 1 |
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Theatre techniques can be applied across the curriculum in any elementary classroom. Students will study creative drama, story theatre, reader's theatre and improvisation. Students will learn the techniques and perform them, as well as apply them to their own teaching situations. Priority to elementary-education majors. Fall and spring semesters. Junior or Senior status required. |
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| TA 345 Theatre Production | 1 |
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See TA 145. |
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| TA 361 Fundamentals of Directing | 3 |
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An introductory directing course in which students will interrogate theatre texts and experiences, evaluate various directing practices, and by experiment with their individual artistry through regular directing showcases. Prerequisites: TA 231 and TA 273. Fall semester. Junior level or above. |
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| TA 373 Acting: Styles | 3 |
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A practical exploration of theories and methods of contemporary acting practice. Students will build their individual acting technique through rigorous analysis, rehearsal, and performance of selected scenes and monologues. The course will culminate in an audition showcase with an invited panel of adjudicators. Prerequisites: TA 231 and TA 273. Spring semester, even years. |
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| TA 375 Stagecraft II | 3 |
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Project based course providing training in professional Stagecraft skills including: computer aided drafting for scenic and lighting production, technical direction including materials handling, advanced scenic construction techniques, basic rigging, equipment maintenance, production supervision, scheduling, and budgeting. Prerequisite: TA 275. Periodic. Fee. |
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| TA 377 Design & Production: Lighting & Sound | 3 |
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A project-based course introducing the principles, methods, historical development, and evolution of lighting and sound design. Includes exploration of the design process, script analysis, visual research skills, and the application of design principles. The format of the course includes demonstrations of design tools & techniques, project lab sessions, discussion of design theory and practices, and peer critiques of the process and projects. Fall semester, odd years. Fee. |
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| TA 378 Design & Production: Scenic & Costume | 3 |
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A project-based course introducing the principles, methods, and development of scenic and costume design and production. Includes exploration of the design process, script analysis, research skills, and application of design principles. The format includes tool and technique demonstration, project lab sessions, theory and practice discussion, and peer critiques. Fall semester, even years. Also listed as FVNS 378. Fee. Fulfills-Fine Arts. |
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| TA 379 Advanced Voice for the Performer | 3 |
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Advanced training in the skills of vocal sound production and vocal communication with an emphasis on dialect acquisition. Through intensive linguistic study, students will develop an essential repertoire of dialects by interrogating texts, evaluating native speakers, and staging a series of dialect-driven monologues. Prerequisite: TA 279. Spring semester, odd years. |
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| TA 381 Choreography | 2 |
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Learn basic principles and concepts for constructing dance choreography. Students will create, cast, and produce an original dance composition. Spring semester, odd years. Fee. |
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| TA 382 Dance History | 2 |
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A comprehensive study of dance from early recorded history to the present. Explores and examines dance practices in a historical and cultural context. Periodic. |
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| TA 383 Jazz Dance II | 2 |
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In this second level course, students continue to learn to express themselves creatively through the artistic medium of jazz dance. This course prepares students for performance while developing further understanding of positions, anatomy, exercises and jazz dance principles. Students will practice technique, stretching and strengthening in the daily warm-up and across the floor combinations. Fulfills - Fine Arts, Physical Wellness. |
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| TA 430 Private Lessons | 1-2 |
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See TA 130. |
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| TA 435 Leadership in the Arts | 3 |
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An in-depth study of the administration of community art projects. Topics covered will include grant-writing, business plans, safety/liability, marketing and public relations. An emphasis will be placed on laying the groundwork for successful community art projects within the disciplines of fine arts, music and theater. No prerequisites however, some background in art is recommended. Also listed as AR 435. Periodic. |
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| TA 445 Theatre Production | 1 |
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See TA 145. |
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| TA 473 Acting: Scene Study | 3 |
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Advanced training in acting with special attention to contemporary theatre, Shakespeare, and monologue work. Priority will be given to junior and senior Acting track theatre majors. Signature required. Fee. Prerequisites: TA 231 and TA 273. Spring semester, odd years. |
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| TA 476W History of Theatre I | 3 |
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The history of theatre's relationship to society from antiquity to 1800. Using plays from a global canon as primary sources, students interrogate theatrical heritage, evaluate various works of dramatic literature within the cultural context of their creation, and by develop and apply the skills of historical and dramaturgical inquiry to the creative process. Also listed as EMS 476W. Fall semester, odd years. |
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| TA 477W History of Theatre II | 3 |
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The history of theatre's relationship to society from 1800 to the present. Using plays from a global canon as primary sources, students interrogate theatrical heritage, evaluate various works of dramatic literature within the cultural context of their creation, and by develop and apply the skills of historical and dramaturgical inquiry to the creative process. Prerequisite: TA476W. Spring semester, even years. |
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| TA 478W Critical Play Analysis | 3 |
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Seminar Using plays from a global canon as primary sources, students interrogate theatrical heritage, evaluate various works of dramatic literature within the cultural context of their creation, and by develop and apply the skills of historical and dramaturgical inquiry to the creative process. |
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| TA 481 Projects in Theatre | 1-3 |
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Projects in performance or research in some aspect of theatre that is not available in regularly scheduled courses but has particular significance in that student's program. The project is proposed by the student and refined in consultation with the professor. Feasibility and appropriateness must be approved by the department faculty. Prerequisites: completion of a minimum of four courses in Theatre, two of which must be upper division. Fall and spring semesters. |
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| TA 482 Projects in Theatre | 1-2 |
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See TA 481. |
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| TA 498 Senior Project | 3 |
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The Senior Project is the capstone experience for the theatre major and allows the student to demonstrate expertise and artistry by completing one of the following: performance (solo or group, original or interpretive), project (directing, playwriting, arts administration, internship, etc.), or research paper. All majors must apply by submitting a proposal in their chosen area during the spring semester of their junior year. Proposals are subject to faculty approval. Prerequisites: faculty approval, senior status and concurrent registration for TA 430 (private lessons). |
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