WCSU Undergraduate Catalog 2023-2024 : School of Visual and Performing Arts

Theatre Arts

Dr. Justin P. Cowan, Chair
cowanj@wcsu.edu
VPA 017, Westside campus
(203) 837-8476

Victoria Hunter, Department Secretary
Hunterv@wcsu.edu
VPA 143, Westside campus
(203) 837-8404
(203) 837-8912 (fax)


Faculty

J. Cowan, Chair, Musicianship, MT Rep, MT History, Musical Director
D. Gagnon, Theatre History, Intro to Drama, Senior Portfolio
F. Herbert, Technical Direction, Technical Theatre I & II
T. Howard, Musical Theatre Coordinator, MT Workshop, Acting, Audition Techniques, Director
J. Johns-Lerner, Costume Design, Costume Technology, Costume History, Evolution of Fashion
P. McDaniel, Directing

E. Popiel, Costume Design, Scenic Design, Scenic Art, Puppetry, Theatre Design Fundamentals
S. Trapani, Acting, Directing, Playmaking with Children, Devised Theatre, Theatre History


Adjunct Faculty

M. Bartoli, Acting, Voice and Diction
H. Bechard,Introduction to Theatre
A. Bennett, Sound Design/Technology
G. Bennett, Audio Engineer
C. Bolan, Acting, Voice and Dictation, Audition Techniques
M. Bolan, Applied Voice
S. Cally, Lighting Design
A. Cochrane, Director, Sound Design, Performance Techniques
A. DePoto, Playmaking with Children, First Year Experience, Children’s Theatre Production
C. Donovan, Acting, Playmaking with Children, Meisner Techniques
M. Freedman, Set and Costume Design
P. George, Director, Scene into Song
K. Hansen, Production Lab Supervision
I. Hatch, Costume Technology
J. Hickok,Meisner Techniques, Performance Techniques
H. Katcher-Striano,Introduction to Theatre
H. Kilik,Vocal Coach
M.A. Lamb, Choreography
R. McGee, Theatrical Makeup, Costume Design
E. Parkinson,Musical Theatre-Dance, Ballet, Choreography
B. Phelps, Costume Technology
J. Powell, Applied Voice
J. Robinson,Applied Voice
J. Rose, Set Design, Stage Lighting
S. Sobel, Costume, Makeup Design
C. Sorenson, Acting for the Camera
J. Wise, Directing Tap


Overview

The Department of Theatre Arts provides a strong theoretical and practical approach to the study of the art and craft of theatre. Students who major in Theatre Arts prepare for graduate studies and/or careers directly related to performance, design/technology, management and dramaturgy. Students also combine theatre studies with other majors and/or minors such as Music, Art and Media, to enhance work opportunities within the entertainment industry.

In addition to its academic functions, the department serves the campus and community by offering diverse theatrical performances including musicals, traditional plays and plays for children.  Connections to the greater theatre community are promoted through sponsorship of professional training workshops and performances of guest artists.

Our proximity to New York City (one hour to mid-town Manhattan) gives us an opportunity to make excellent use of its vast resources. The theatre faculty maintains close ties with professional organizations, activities and research facilities within the area, and opportunities are regularly planned to introduce students to the professional environment.


Mission

The theatre department keeps consistent with the university’s mission to serve as an accessible and responsive intellectual resource for the people and institutions of Connecticut. The department provides a thorough, modern education in the theory, skills and technology of theatre production and performance that is tailored to the individual student’s background and career objectives.

The department believes in fostering a diverse student environment with an emphasis on professionalism and a commitment to excellence.


Objectives

To accomplish this mission the Department of Theatre Arts:

  • Offers its students the highest quality undergraduate programs in performance, theory, theatre technology and design by professors that have worked professionally in their field and maintain high academic credentials in their respective areas.
  • Emphasizes performance and production techniques, writing and theatre management throughout the undergraduate curriculum to develop students’ ability to understand and deliver appropriate performance and theoretical concepts and to apply and utilize these techniques in a professional setting.
  • Provides studio and theatrical experiences using public and classroom productions to entertain live audiences. Our season each year consists of two main stage productions, two large-scale family shows, studio productions, and a variety of workshops and readings which enhance the cultural environment of the university and its programs.
  • Organizes a New York showcase for our graduating seniors in performance and musical theatre.
  • Organizes opportunities for students to perform off-campus at such venues as the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival.
  • Provides a personalized learning environment for students through faculty mentored undergraduate research/creative projects and internships.
  • Prepares students for graduate education in multiple areas of theatre arts and the entertainment industry.
  • Assists students in discerning appropriate careers through diligent advising.
  • Provides students with connections and references to professional organizations (such as USITT), internship programs and job placement opportunities.
  • Arranges for New York theatre professionals to travel to our campus to conduct workshops in all aspects of theatre training.
  • Provides and fosters the growth and development of faculty by encouraging research, attendance at professional meetings, publication and presentation of scholarly work and creative performance.
  • Collaborates with organizations and institutions in all areas of the entertainment industry within the tri-state area to support professional growth of faculty as well as internship opportunities for students.
  • Expresses its strong commitment to the community by collaborating with regional elementary, junior and senior high school educators to further our programs in children’s theatre.

 

Learning Outcomes for General Education

As per NAST standards and the stated goals for this degree, students enrolled in the Bachelor of Arts in Theatre and in the Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre degree program are expected to demonstrate the following competencies upon graduation:

  1. To develop understanding and practice of theatre arts by focusing on the verbal, physical, visual and research aspects of the craft.
  2. To understand script analysis in order to develop an understanding of the relationship of production process to the period and style, content and structure of a script.
  3. To provide exposure to a wide variety of theatre repertory through the study of the history of theatre, its major dramatists, attending performances, and through the production of a variety of theatre works.
  4. To prepare students for entry-level positions in theatre performance, design and/or technology, theatre arts management and other entertainment industry-related fields, as well as, for continuation with graduate studies, and/or teaching.
  5. To encourage students to explore breadth and variety in their educational pursuits to enhance their understanding of the world around them and to give them greater career versatility as a post-graduate.

General Education

General Education at Western Connecticut State University combines course-based competencies with opportunities to explore a wide range of disciplines outside of a student’s major. The university has identified 10 competencies that support academic success and prepare students for life-long learning. There are shared learning outcomes for each competency, which are embedded in courses across the curriculum.

Competencies may be satisfied in the major, minor or any other area of interest. There are no rules about how many competencies can be satisfied in the major. The only rules are:

  • All competencies must be satisfied (as listed here).
  • All students must complete at least 40 credits outside of their major discipline.

With this approach, the university has created the opportunity for students to develop essential skills and habits of mind in disciplines where they are most engaged with the material. It is important that students explore ideas from several areas of curriculum outside their major, but without an arbitrary limit on that exploration.


Transfer Admissions

All students wishing to transfer into any degree program in theatre at WCSU must meet the criteria listed for each program, including those currently attending institutions holding articulation agreements with WCSU. All applicants will be assessed in the areas of their selected option for matriculation and appropriate prerequisite placement in courses within the major.


Transfer Review Process and Transfer Articulation Policy (TAP)

Western Connecticut State University, as part of the Connecticut State Colleges & Universities (CSCU), accepts credits for non-theatre courses as per the Transfer Articulation Policy for students with an earned Associates Degree. Information regarding this specific classification of transfer credits can be found at the CSCU website. For the 2016-2017 academic year there are no approved “pathways” for community college students to utilize TAP and seamlessly enter Western’s Department of Theatre Arts at the junior level.


Awarding of Credit

Credit Hour: A semester hour of credit is an amount of work represented in intended learning outcomes and verified by evidence of student achievement that is an institutionally established equivalency that reasonably approximates not less than:

  1. One hour of classroom or direct faculty instruction and a minimum of two hours of out-of-class student work each week for approximately 15 weeks;
  2. Or the equivalent amount of work over a different amount of time;
  3. Or at least an equivalent amount of work as required in paragraph 1 of this definition for other academic activities as established by the institution including laboratory work, internships, practica, studio work, and other academic work leading to the award of credit hours.

 

Degree Programs in Theatre Arts

Bachelor of Arts
Theatre Arts

Bachelor of Fine Arts
Musical Theatre

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Arts
options in:
Acting
Design/Technical
Stage Management

Minor
Theatre Arts

 

BACHELOR OF ARTS IN THEATRE ARTS (B.A.)

Description: This degree is appropriate for students who wish to study theatre within the broader context of a liberal arts education and to emphasize areas of concentration such as performance, design/technology, theatre arts management or theatre studies.  Students are encouraged to explore breadth and variety in their educational pursuits to enhance their understanding of the world around them and to give them greater career versatility as a graduate.

Degree Requirements
All degrees at WCSU require 120 semester hours (SH). This includes major requirements, general education requirements, cognates (where applicable), and free electives. This structure provides room for minors, internships, and study abroad.

Required Courses in the Major: 45 SH.

THEATRE ARTS CORE
THR 100 Introduction to Theatre Production (FY) 1 SH
THR 105 Social Issues/Justice in Theatre 2 SH
THR 107W Play Script Analysis (W2) 3 SH
THR 110 Theatre Management 3 SH
THR 181 Acting I: Character Study (CP) 3 SH
THR 182 Technical Theatre I 3 SH
THR 201 Playmaking with Children OR THR 289 Children’s Theatre Practicum 3 SH
THR 202 Technical Theatre II OR THR 306 Costume Technology II 3 SH
THR 279 History of the Theatre 3 SH
THR 284 Costume Technology for Theatre 3 SH
THR 286 Theatre History II 3 SH
THR 300 Theatre Production Lab (at least 1 SH for 6 semesters). Course may be taken for 1-3 SH each semester. Students must still participate for 6 semesters 6 SH
THR 383 Methods of Scenic Arts & Crafts 3 SH
THR 387 Devised Theatre Workshop 3 SH
THR 490 Senior Portfolio in Theatre Arts (CE, W3) 3 SH
Minimum GPA for the BA in Theatre Arts = 2.5 in the major and a 2.0 overall.

 

General Education: All students must complete the General Education curriculum. General Education Requirements include both competency and breadth requirements. In some cases, major courses will satisfy competencies. These are indicated in the parentheses after the course title. For a complete description of the General Education program, follow this link. https://catalogs.wcsu.edu/ugrad2021/academic-programs-degrees/

Cognates: In some programs there are courses outside of the major that are required as pre-requisites or enhancements to the major course work. These courses may satisfy competencies and they will count toward the general education breadth requirement. If cognate courses are required, they are included in the list of courses required in the major.

Electives: All degrees require 120 semester hours.  Elective credits are opportunities for minors, internships, study abroad, and just following general interests. We encourage all students to speak with their advisors about great opportunities for their elective courses.

Sample Four Year Plan: BA Theatre Arts
Four-year plans are suggestions. Plans change. Consult your advisor to adjust your plan.

Semester 1 SH Semester 2 SH
THR 100 Intro to Theatre Prod. (FY) 1 THR 300 Theatre Production Lab 1
THR 181 Acting I: Character Study (CP) 3 THR 110 Theatre Management 3
THR 182 Technical Theatre I 3 THR 105 Social Issues/Justice in Theatre 2
Gen Ed: Oral Communication (OC) 3 Gen Ed: Critical Thinking (CT) 3
MAT 100 Intermediate Math OR Gen Ed: Quantitative Reasoning (QR) 3-4 Gen Ed: Quantitative Reasoning (QR) OR Gen Ed: Breadth Elective 3
WRT 101 Composition I (W1) 3 THR 107W Play Script Analysis (W2) 3
       
Semester 3 SH Semester 4 SH
THR 202 Technical Theatre II OR THR 306 Costume Technology II 3 THR 286 Theatre History II 3
THR 201 Playmaking with Children (CP) OR THR 289 Children’s Theatre Practicum 3 THR 284 Costume Technology for Theatre 3
THR 300 Theatre Production Lab 1 THR 300 Theatre Production Lab 1
THR 279 History of the Theatre 3 Gen Ed: Information Literacy (IL) 3
Gen Ed: Intercultural Comp.* (IC) 3 Gen Ed: Intercultural Comp (IC, Rpt. 1) 3
Gen Ed: Breadth 3 Free Elective 3
Semester 5   Semester 6  
THR 383 Methods of Scenic Arts & Crafts 3 Gen Ed: Breadth 3
THR 387 Devised Theatre Workshop 3 THR 300 Theatre Production Lab 1
THR 300 Theatre Production Lab 1 Gen Ed: Repeat Competency 3 3
Gen Ed: Scientific Inquiry (SI) 4 Gen Ed: Health and Wellness (HW) 2
Gen Ed: Repeat Competency 2 3 Free Electives 6
Semester 7   Semester 8  
THR 490 Senior Portfolio (CE, W3) 3 Free Electives 15
THR 300 Theatre Production Lab 1
Free Electives 9
Total Credits Required for the BA in Theatre Arts = 120; 2.5 in the major and a 2.0 overall.

* All Bachelor of Arts degrees at WCSU require that students complete a language at or above the elementary II level. Students who have completed three years of a foreign language at a minimum of a C average in high school have met this requirement. However, they must still complete at least one Intercultural Competency course.

 

BACHELOR OF FINE ARTS IN MUSICAL THEATRE (B.F.A.)

Description: This degree offers students knowledge of and training in all aspects of musical theatre within a liberal arts context in order to compete for employment opportunities in the entertainment industry where musical talent is utilized. 

Degree Requirements 

All degrees at WCSU require 120 semester hours (SH). This includes major requirements, general education requirements, cognates (where applicable), and free electives. This structure provides room for minors, internships, and study abroad.   

Required Courses in the Major: 80 SH.  

THR 100 Introduction to Theatre Production (FY) OR THR 300 Theatre Production Lab  1 SH 
THR 103 Ballet Fundamentals for Musical Theatre  2 SH 
THR 113 Musical Theatre Studio (0 SH for 8 semesters)  0 SH 
THR 150 Performance Techniques: Integration of Voice & Movement  3 SH 
THR 165 Stage Makeup  1 SH 
THR 171 Musical Theatre Workshop  3 SH 
THR 181 Acting I: Character Study (CP)  3 SH 
THR 182 Technical Theatre I  3 SH 
THR 183 Applied Voice (1 SH for 8 semesters)  8 SH 
THR 207 Dance for Musical Theatre: Jazz  2 SH 
THR 208 Dance for Musical Theatre: Tap  2 SH 
THR 209 Dance for Musical Theatre: Modern  2 SH 
THR 260 Voice and Diction  3 SH 
THR 279 History of the Theatre OR THR 286 History of Theatre II  3 SH 
THR 281 Acting II: Scene Study (CP)  3 SH 
THR 284 Costume Technology  3 SH 
THR 295 Musicianship for Musical Theatre I  3 SH 
THR 296 Musicianship for Musical Theatre II  3 SH 
THR 300 Theatre Production Lab (1 SH for 6 semesters)  6 SH 
THR 305 Dance Combination Class (1 SH for 2 semesters)  2 SH 
THR 372 Advanced Musical Theatre Workshop  3 SH 
THR 388 Acting III: Period Styles  3 SH 
THR 389 Auditioning Techniques  3 SH 
THR 392 Scene into Song  3 SH 
THR 401 Musical Theatre Repertoire  1 SH 
THR 402 Special Topics in THR Arts: Musical Theatre 3 SH 
THR 403 Transition Workshop  1 SH 
THR 490 Senior Portfolio in Theatre Arts (CE, W3)  3 SH 
THR 495 Senior Showcase  1 SH 
Musical Theatre Electives: THR 244 Playwriting, THR 252 Acting for the Camera, THR 298 Performing Shakespeare, THR 386 Directing 1 (CT), THR 387 Devised Theatre  3 SH 
COGNATES 
THR 107W Play Structure and Analysis (W2)  3 SH 
THR 204 Musical Theatre History I: Pre-1943 (IC)  3 SH 
THR 214: Musical Theatre History II: 1943-Present (IC)  3 SH 
Minimum GPA for the BFA in Musical Theatre = 2.0 and a “C” or better in all courses within the major to count toward graduation.


General Education
: All students must complete the General Education curriculum. General Education Requirements include both competency and breadth requirements. In some cases, major courses will satisfy competencies. These are indicated in the parentheses after the course title. For a complete description of the General Education program, follow this link. https://catalogs.wcsu.edu/ugrad2021/academic-programs-degrees/ 

Cognates: In some programs there are courses outside of the major that are required as pre-requisites or enhancements to the major course work. These courses may satisfy competencies and they will count toward the general education breadth requirement. If cognate courses are required, they are included in the list of courses required in the major.  

Electives: All degrees require 120 semester hours.  Elective credits are opportunities for minors, internships, study abroad, and just following general interests. We encourage all students to speak with their advisors about great opportunities for their elective courses.  


Sample Four Year Plan: BFA Musical Theatre

Four-year plans are suggestions. Plans change. Consult your advisor to adjust your plan.  

Semester 1  SH  Semester 2  SH 
THR 100 Intro THR Prod Lab (FY)   1  THR 113 Musical Theatre Studio   0 
THR 103 Fundamentals of Ballet  2  THR 150 Performance Techniques  3 
THR 113 Musical Theatre Studio  0  THR 182 Tech I or Costume Tech I  3 
THR 171 Musical Theatre Workshop  3  THR 183 Applied Voice MT  1 
THR 181 Acting I (CP)  3  THR 207 MT Dance-Jazz  2 
THR 183 Applied Voice MT  1  THR 296 Musicianship for MT II  3 
THR 295 Musicianship for MT I  3  THR 300 Theatre Activity  1 
MAT 100 Intermediate Math OR Gen Ed: Quantitative Reasoning (QR)  3-4  Gen Ed: Quantitative Reasoning (QR) OR Gen Ed: Breadth Elective  3 
       
Semester 3  SH  Semester 4  SH 
THR 113 Musical Theatre Studio  0  THR 113 Musical Theatre Studio  0 
THR 183 Applied Voice  1  THR 165 Stage Makeup  1 
THR 209 MT Dance- Modern  2  THR 183 Applied Voice  1 
THR 260 Voice & Diction  3  THR 208 MT Dance- Tap  2 
THR 281 Acting II (CP, RPT 1)  3  THR 284 Costume Tech or Tech I  3 
THR 300 Theatre Activity 1  THR 300 Theatre Activity  1 
WRT 101 Composition I (W1) 3  THR 372 Adv. MT Workshop  3 
Gen Ed: Oral Communication (OC)  3  THR 204 MT History I: Pre-1943 (IC)  3 
    THR 107W Play Structure and Analysis (W2) 3
       
Semester 5  SH  Semester 6  SH 
THR 113 Musical Theatre Studio  0  THR 113 Musical Theatre Studio  0 
THR 183 Applied Voice  1  THR 183 Applied Voice  1 
THR 300 Theatre Activity  1  THR 300 Theatre Activity  1 
THR 305 Dance Combination  1  THR 305 Dance Combination  1 
THR 392 Scene into Song  3  THR 388 Acting III  3 
THR Elective  3  THR 279 Theatre History I OR THR 286 Theatre History II 3 
THR 214 MT History II: 1943-Present (IC, RPT 2)  3  THR 402 Special Topics: MT  3 
Gen Ed: Information Literacy (IL)  3 Gen Ed: Scientific Inquiry (SI)  4 

 

Semester 7  SH  Semester 8  SH 
THR 113 Musical Theatre Studio  0  THR 113 Musical Theatre Studio  0 
THR 183 Applied Voice   1  THR 183 Applied Voice  1 
THR 300 Theatre Activity  1  THR 403 Transition Workshop  1 
THR 389 Audition Techniques   3  THR 495 Senior Showcase  1 
THR 401 MT Repertoire   1  HPX Online Lecture (HW)  1 
THR 490 Senior Portfolio (CE, W3)  3  Gen Ed: Breadth  3 
Gen Ed: Critical Thinking (CT)  3  Gen Ed: Breadth  3 
Gen Ed: Repeat Competency 3  3  Gen Ed: Breadth  3 
Total Credits Required for the BFA in Musical Theatre = 120; Minimum GPA = 2.0

 

Admission Auditions for Musical Theatre Degree Program

The Bachelor of Arts in Musical Theatre degree is a specialized degree offered in collaboration with the Department of Music. Set within a liberal arts context, this degree provides students with knowledge of, and training in, all aspects of musical theatre in order to compete for employment opportunities in the entertainment industry where musical theatre is utilized.  Students will develop the following skills:

  1. Vocal production and techniques sufficient to present complete roles in full productions.
  2. Vocal interpretation and role preparation skills that enable understanding and performance of roles in a wide variety of styles and formats.
  3. Musicianship, keyboard competency, and analytic skills.
  4. Theatrical skills, acting competence, script analysis, stage movement, voice and diction for the actor, auditioning techniques, and related physical skills such as modern dance, ballet, and jazz.
  5. Understanding of basic production elements such as make-up, costume, sets and props, and lighting.
  6. Knowledge of the musical theatre canon, along with its history and development within the theatre.
  7. Portfolio preparation of musical and non-musical material for auditions and/or graduate school.

Students wishing to pursue a degree in Musical theatre in the Department of theatre Arts must adhere to the following criteria for admission:

  1. Fulfill general admission guidelines found in this catalog for the university, school and department.
  2. Perform and pass an audition, in person, for members of the faculty.  The student, through this audition, must exhibit the standards and skill sets required for entry into the Musical Theatre program, including:
      1. The ability to perform a ½ minute to 1 minute monologue portraying a character close to the age of the individual auditioning.
      2. The ability to learn and perform a short dance phrase that demonstrates movement skills.
      3. To receive a passing score on a sight-singing/ear-training examination.
      4. To take a music theory examination. (This examination is used for placement only.)
      5. The ability to accurately perform with accompaniment 16 bars of an up-tempo and 16 bars of a ballad vocal selections.

Information regarding audition dates and specific audition requirements can be found online or by contacting the Department of Theatre Arts at (203) 837-8250.

Students will demonstrate, through engaging with verbal, physical, visual, and research aspects of the craft, the value of Theatre as a profession. This will be assessed in courses like The Transition Workshop, Senior Portfolio, and through their production assignments. 2. Students will understand the value of secondary theatre disciplines as they pertain to professional collaboration in their field and potential avenues for supplemental work in the field of Theatre. This will be assessed through courses within the BFA core, as well as any courses that provide supplemental skills and training outside of the student’s chosen concentration. 3. Students will apply theoretical concepts through hands-on/practical applications of skill. This will be assessed through production assignments, casting, auditioning, and other practicum experiences. 4. Students will analyze scripts, both contemporary and classic, and evaluate their merits and contributions. This will be assessed through courses such as Play Structure and Analysis, Design Courses, Management Courses, and Acting Courses. 5. Students will create meaningful theatrical experiences as they pertain to their concentrations. Acting students will create roles, Design/Tech students will create scenery and/or realize their designs, Management students will create processes and procedures for successful rehearsal and performance of productions. This will be assessed through courses in Acting, Design, and Management. As well as through production assignments and casting. 6. Students will create professional portfolios and audition packages to advance their careers postgraduation. This will be assessed through courses in Transition Workshop, Senior Portfolio, and Senior Showcase.

BFA Theatre Arts: Acting

Description: The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Arts at WCSU is the newest degree in our nationally-recognized Department of Theatre Arts.  Within a liberal arts setting, this professional program provides students with knowledge of, and training in, all aspects of theatre while offering three distinct concentrations in which students can hone their specific skills.  Those three options are: Acting, Design/Tech, and Stage Management.

Degree Requirements

All degrees at WCSU require 120 semester hours (SH). This includes major requirements, general education requirements, cognates (where applicable), and free electives. This structure provides room for minors, internships, and study abroad.

Required Courses in the Major: 80 SH.

BFA THEATRE ARTS CORE (30 SH)
THR 100 Introduction to Theatre Production Lab (FY) 1 SH
THR 105 Social Issues and Justice in Theatre 2 SH
THR 107W Play Structure and Analysis (W2) 3 SH
THR 181 Acting I: Character Study (CP) 3 SH
THR 182 Technical Theatre I 3 SH
THR 279 History of Theatre 3 SH
THR 284 Costume Technology for Theatre 3 SH
THR 286 Theatre History II 3 SH
THR 300 Theatre Production Lab (at least 1 SH for 6 semesters). May be taken for 1-3 SH each semester. Students must still participate for 6 semesters. 6 SH
THR 490 Senior Portfolio in Theatre Arts (CE, W3) 3 SH
Acting Option (50 SH)
THR 150 Performance Techniques 3 SH
THR 165 Stage Makeup 1 SH
THR 201 Playmaking with Children OR THR 289 Children’s Theatre Practicum 3 SH
THR 202 Technical Theatre II OR THR 306 Costume Technology II OR THR 383 Methods of Scenic Arts and Crafts 3 SH
THR 252 Acting for the Camera 3 SH
THR 260 Voice and Diction 3 SH
THR 261 Dialect for the Stage 2 SH
THR 271 Meisner Technique 3 SH
THR 281 Acting II: Scene Study (CP) 3 SH
THR 293 Stage Combat 2 SH
THR 363 Acting IV: Performing Shakespeare 3 SH
THR 386 Directing I (CT) 3 SH
THR 387 Devised Theatre Workshop 3 SH
THR 388 Acting III: Period Styles 3 SH
THR 389 Audition Techniques-Actor 3 SH
THR 403 The Transition Workshop 1 SH
THR 495 Senior Showcase 1 SH
THR Electives 7 SH
COGNATE
HPX 150 Dance Workshop 3 SH
Minimum GPA for BFA Theatre Arts = 2.0 and a “C” or better in all courses within the major to count toward graduation.


General Education
: All students must complete the General Education curriculum. General Education Requirements include both competency and breadth requirements. In some cases, major courses will satisfy competencies. These are indicated in the parentheses after the course title. For a complete description of the General Education program, follow this link. https://catalogs.wcsu.edu/ugrad2021/academic-programs-degrees/

Cognates: In some programs there are courses outside of the major that are required as pre-requisites or enhancements to the major course work. These courses may satisfy competencies and they will count toward the general education breadth requirement. If cognate courses are required, they are included in the list of courses required in the major.

Electives: All degrees require 120 semester hours.  Elective credits are opportunities for minors, internships, study abroad, and just following general interests. We encourage all students to speak with their advisors about great opportunities for their elective courses.

Sample Four Year Plan: BFA Theatre Arts: Acting

Four-year plans are suggestions. Plans change. Consult your advisor to adjust your plan.

Semester 1 SH Semester 2 SH
THR 100 Intr to Theatre Prod Lab (FY) 1 THR 284 Costume Tech. for Theatre OR THR 182 Tech Theatre I 3
THR 181 Acting I: Character Study (CP) 3 THR 300 Theatre Production Lab 1
THR 182 Tech Theatre I OR THR 284 Costume Tech. for Theatre 3 THR 165 Stage Makeup 1
THR 105 Social Issues and Justice in Theatre 2 THR 260 Voice and Diction 3
Gen Ed: Writing 1 (W1) OR THR 107W Play Structure and Analysis (W2) 3 HPX 150 Dance Workshop 3
THR 150 Performance Techniques 3 THR 107W Play Structure and Analysis (W2) OR Gen Ed: Breadth 3
Gen Ed: Oral Communication (OC) 3
Semester 3 SH Semester 4 SH
THR 279 History of Theatre 3 THR 286 Theatre History II 3
THR 300 Theatre Production Lab 1 THR 300 Theatre Production Lab 1
THR 261 Dialects for the Stage 2 THR 201 Playmaking w/ Children (CP) OR THR 289 Children’s Pract. 3
THR 271 Meisner Technique 3 THR 281 Acting II: Scene Study (CP, Rpt. 1) 3
THR Elective 3 Gen Ed: Intercultural (IC, Rpt. 2)* 3
Gen. Ed: Intercultural (IC)* 3 Gen Ed: Information Literacy (IL) 3
Semester 5 SH Semester 6 SH
THR 300 Theatre Production Lab 1 THR 300 Theatre Production Lab 1
THR 388 Acting III: Period Styles 3 THR 293 Stage Combat 2
THR 252 Acting for the Camera 3 THR 363 Acting IV: Performing Shakespeare 3
THR 202 Tech Theatre II OR THR 306 Costume Tech. II OR THR 383 Methods of Scenic Arts & Crafts 3 THR 386 Directing I (CT) OR THR 387 Devised Theatre Workshop 3
Gen. Ed: Quantitative Reasoning (QR) 3 THR Elective 1
Gen Ed: Health & Wellness (HW) 2 Gen Ed: Scientific Inquiry (SI) 4
Semester 7 SH Semester 8 SH
THR 300 Theatre Production Lab 1 THR 403 The Transition Workshop 1
THR 490 Senior Portfolio (CE, W3) 3 THR 495 Senior Showcase 1
THR 389 Audition Techniques- Actor 3 THR Elective 3
THR 387 Devised Theatre Workshop OR THR 386 Directing I (CT) 3 Gen Ed: Breadth 3
Gen Ed: Repeat 3rd Competency 3 Gen Ed: Breadth 3
Gen Ed: Breadth 3 Gen. Ed: Breadth 3
Total Credits Required for the BFA in Theatre Arts = 120; Minimum GPA 2.0

* All Bachelor of Arts degrees at WCSU require that students complete a language at or above the elementary II level. Students who have completed three years of a foreign language at a minimum of a C average in high school have met this requirement. However, they must still complete at least one Intercultural Competency course.

BFA Theatre Arts: Design/Tech

Description: The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Arts at WCSU is the newest degree in our nationally-recognized Department of Theatre Arts.  Within a liberal arts setting, this professional program provides students with knowledge of, and training in, all aspects of theatre while offering three distinct concentrations in which students can hone their specific skills.  Those three options are: Acting, Design/Tech, and Stage Management.

Degree Requirements

All degrees at WCSU require 120 semester hours (SH). This includes major requirements, general education requirements, cognates (where applicable), and free electives. This structure provides room for minors, internships, and study abroad.

Required Courses in the Major: 80 SH.

BFA THEATRE ARTS CORE (30 SH)
THR 100 Introduction to Theatre Production Lab (FY) 1 SH
THR 105 Social Issues and Justice in Theatre 2 SH
THR 107W Play Structure and Analysis (W2) 3 SH
THR 181 Acting I: Character Study (CP) 3 SH
THR 182 Technical Theatre I 3 SH
THR 279 History of Theatre 3 SH
THR 284 Costume Technology for Theatre 3 SH
THR 286 Theatre History II 3 SH
THR 300 Theatre Production Lab (at least 1 SH for 6 semesters). May be taken for 1-3 SH each semester. Students must still participate for 6 semesters. 6 SH
THR 490 Senior Portfolio in Theatre Arts (CE, W3) 3 SH
Design/Tech Option (50 SH)
THR 125 Design Fundamentals for Theatre 3 SH
THR 202 Technical Theatre II 3 SH
THR 210 Stage Management 3 SH
THR 283 Scenic Design 3 SH
THR 302 Costume Design 3 SH
THR 304 Computer Drafting/Design for Theatre 3 SH
THR 306 Costume Technology II 3 SH
THR 307 Allied Craft in 3D for Stage 3 SH
THR 308 Sound Design 3 SH
THR 312 Evolution of Fashion 3 SH
THR 383 Methods of Scenic Arts and Crafts 3 SH
THR 384 Fundamentals of Stage Lighting 3 SH
THR 390 Play Production 3 SH
THR 394 Adv. Stage Lighting and Design 3 SH
THR 403 The Transition Workshop 1 SH
THR Electives 7 SH
COGNATE
ART 100 Hist. & Appr. of Art Beg. to Ren. OR ART 101 Hist. & Appr. of Art Ren. to Present 3 SH
ART 141 Drawing I (CP) 3 SH
Minimum GPA for BFA Theatre Arts = 2.0 and a “C” or better in all courses within the major to count toward graduation.


General Education
: All students must complete the General Education curriculum. General Education Requirements include both competency and breadth requirements. In some cases, major courses will satisfy competencies. These are indicated in the parentheses after the course title. For a complete description of the General Education program, follow this link. https://catalogs.wcsu.edu/ugrad2021/academic-programs-degrees/

Cognates: In some programs there are courses outside of the major that are required as pre-requisites or enhancements to the major course work. These courses may satisfy competencies and they will count toward the general education breadth requirement. If cognate courses are required, they are included in the list of courses required in the major.

Electives: All degrees require 120 semester hours.  Elective credits are opportunities for minors, internships, study abroad, and just following general interests. We encourage all students to speak with their advisors about great opportunities for their elective courses.

Sample Four Year Plan: BFA Theatre Arts: Design/Tech

Four-year plans are suggestions. Plans change. Consult your advisor to adjust your plan.

Semester 1 SH Semester 2 SH
THR 100 Intro to Theatre Prod Lab (FY) 1 THR 107W Play Structure and Analysis (W2) 3
THR 182 Technical Theatre I 3 THR 181 Acting I: Character Study (CP) 3
THR 105 Social Issues and Justice in Theatre 2 THR 284 Costume Technology for Theatre 3
THR 125 Design Fundamentals for Theatre (CP) 3 THR 300 Theatre Production Lab 1
ART 100 Hist. & Appr. Of Art Beg. To Ren. OR ART 101 Hist. & Appr. Of Art Ren. To Present 3 THR 383 Methods of Scenic Arts and Crafts 3
COM 146 Basic Video Production (CP Rpt. 1, IL) 3 Gen Ed: Quantitative Reasoning (QR) 3
Gen Ed: Writing I (W1) OR Gen Ed: Breadth 3
       
Semester 3 SH Semester 4 SH
THR 279 History of Theatre 3 THR 286 Theatre History II 3
THR 300 Theatre Production Lab 1 THR 300 Theatre Production Lab 1
THR 202 Technical Theatre II 3 THR 304 Computer Drafting/Design for Theatre 3
THR 210 Stage Management 3 THR 306 Costume Tech II 3
THR 384 Fundamentals of Stage Lighting 3 THR 307 Allied Craft in 3D for Stage 3
ART 141 Drawing I (CP) 3 Gen Ed: Critical Thinking (CT) 3
       
Semester 5 SH Semester 6 SH
THR 300 Theatre Production Lab 1 THR 300 Theatre Production Lab 1
THR 283 Scenic Design 3 THR 394 Adv. Stage Lighting and Design 3
THR 312 Evolution of Fashion 3 THR 302 Costume Design 3
THR 308 Sound Design 3 THR 390 Play Production 3
Gen Ed: Intercultural (IC)* 3 Gen Ed: Intercultural (IC, Rpt. 2)* 3
Gen Ed: Health & Wellness (HW) 2
       
Semester 7 SH Semester 8 SH
THR 300 Theatre Production Lab 1 THR 403 The Transition Workshop 1
THR 490 Senior Portfolio (CE, W3) 3 THR Elective 3
THR Elective 4 Gen Ed: Repeat Competency 3 3
Gen Ed: Oral Communication (OC) 3 Gen Ed: Breadth 3
Gen Ed: Scientific Inquiry (SI) 4 Gen Ed: Breadth 3
Total Credits Required for the BFA in Theatre Arts = 120; Minimum GPA 2.0

* All Bachelor of Arts degrees at WCSU require that students complete a language at or above the elementary II level. Students who have completed three years of a foreign language at a minimum of a C average in high school have met this requirement. However, they must still complete at least one Intercultural Competency course.

BFA Theatre Arts: Stage Management

Description: The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Arts at WCSU is the newest degree in our nationally-recognized Department of Theatre Arts.  Within a liberal arts setting, this professional program provides students with knowledge of, and training in, all aspects of theatre while offering three distinct concentrations in which students can hone their specific skills.  Those three options are: Acting, Design/Tech, and Stage Management.

Degree Requirements

All degrees at WCSU require 120 semester hours (SH). This includes major requirements, general education requirements, cognates (where applicable), and free electives. This structure provides room for minors, internships, and study abroad.

Required Courses in the Major: 80 SH.

BFA THEATRE ARTS CORE (30 SH)
THR 100 Introduction to Theatre Production Lab (FY) 1 SH
THR 105 Social Issues and Justice in Theatre 2 SH
THR 107W Play Structure and Analysis (W2) 3 SH
THR 181 Acting I: Character Study (CP) 3 SH
THR 182 Technical Theatre I 3 SH
THR 279 History of Theatre 3 SH
THR 284 Costume Technology for Theatre 3 SH
THR 286 Theatre History II 3 SH
THR 300 Theatre Production Lab (at least 1 SH for 6 semesters). May be taken for 1-3 SH each semester. Students must still participate for 6 semesters. 6 SH
THR 490 Senior Portfolio in Theatre Arts (CE, W3) 3 SH
Stage Management Option (50 SH)
THR 110 Theatre Management 3 SH
THR 201 Playmaking with Children (CP) OR THR 289 Children’s Theatre Practicum 3 SH
THR 210 Stage Management 3 SH
THR 281 Acting II: Scene Study (CP) 3 SH
THR 283 Scenic Design 3 SH
THR 293 Stage Combat with Children 2 SH
THR 298 Special Topics ASM 2 SH
THR 298 Special Topics ASM 2 SH
THR 302 Costume Design 3 SH
THR 304 Computer Drafting/Design for Theatre 3 SH
THR 308 Sound Design 3 SH
THR 310 Stage Management II 3 SH
THR 384 Fundamentals of Stage Lighting 3 SH
THR 386 Directing I (CT) 3 SH
THR 390 Play Production 3 SH
THR 402 Special Topics PSM 3 SH
THR 403 The Transition Workshop 1 SH
THR Electives 4 SH
COGNATE
MUS 195 Concert chorale (2 semesters) 1 SH
MGT 250 Organizational Behavior (CT) 3 SH
MIS 155 Information Technology OR MIS 260 Information Systems Concepts (IL) 3 SH
Minimum GPA for BFA in Theatre Arts = 2.0 and a “C” or better in all courses within the major to count toward graduation.


General Education
: All students must complete the General Education curriculum. General Education Requirements include both competency and breadth requirements. In some cases, major courses will satisfy competencies. These are indicated in the parentheses after the course title. For a complete description of the General Education program, follow this link. https://catalogs.wcsu.edu/ugrad2021/academic-programs-degrees/

Cognates: In some programs there are courses outside of the major that are required as pre-requisites or enhancements to the major course work. These courses may satisfy competencies and they will count toward the general education breadth requirement. If cognate courses are required, they are included in the list of courses required in the major.

Electives: All degrees require 120 semester hours.  Elective credits are opportunities for minors, internships, study abroad, and just following general interests. We encourage all students to speak with their advisors about great opportunities for their elective courses.

Sample Four Year Plan: BFA Stage Management

Four-year plans are suggestions. Plans change. Consult your advisor to adjust your plan.

Semester 1 SH Semester 2 SH
THR 100 Intro to Theatre Prod Lab (FY) 1 THR 181 Acting I: Character Study (CP) 3
THR 182 Tech Theatre I OR THR 284 Costume Tech. for Theatre 3 THR 284 Costume Tech. for Theatre OR THR 182 Tech Theatre I 3
THR 105 Social Issues and Justice in Theatre 2 THR 300 Theatre Production Lab – Props Asst. or Other 1
THR 107W Play Structure and Analysis (W2) 3 THR Elective 1
THR 110 Theatre Management 3 MUS 195 Concert Chorale .5
MUS 195 Concert Chorale .5 MIS 155 Information Technology OR MIS 260 Information Systems 3
Gen Ed.  Writing Intensive 1- (Only if W1 is needed) 3 Gen. Ed: Quantitative Reasoning (QR) 3
       
Semester 3 SH Semester 4 SH
THR 279 History of Theatre 3 THR 286 Theatre History II 3
THR 300 Theatre Production Lab 1 THR 300 Theatre Production Lab 1
THR 210 Stage Management 3 THR 201 Playmaking w/Children (CP) OR THR 289 Children’s Theatre Practicum 3
THR 281 Acting II: Scene Study (CP, Rpt. 1) 3 THR 304 Computer Drafting/Design for Theatre 3
THR 384 Fundamentals of Stage Lighting 3 THR 310 Stage Management II 3
MGT 250 Organizational Behavior (CT) 3 Gen Ed: Scientific Inquiry (SI) 4
       
Semester 5 SH Semester 6 SH
THR 300 Theatre Production Lab 1 THR 300 Theatre Production Lab 1
THR Elective 3 THR 298 Special Topics – ASM 2
THR 283 Scenic Design 3 THR 293 Stage Combat 2
THR 298 Special Topics – ASM 2 THR 302 Costume Design 3
THR 386 Directing I (CT) OR THR 390 Play Production 3 THR 390 Play Production OR THR 386 Directing I (CT) 3
Gen Ed: Health and Wellness (HW) 2 Gen. Ed: Oral Communication (OC) 3
Gen. Ed: Intercultural (IC)* 3 Gen Ed: Intercultural (IC, Rpt. 2)* 3
       
Semester 7 SH Semester 8 SH
THR 300 Theatre Production Lab 1 THR 403 The Transition Workshop 1
THR 490 Senior Portfolio (CE, W3) 3 Gen Ed: Breadth. OR THR 402 Special Topics – PSM 3
THR 308 Sound Design 3 Gen Ed: Breadth 3
THR 402 Special Topics – PSM OR Gen Ed. 3 Gen Ed: Breadth 3
Gen Ed. Repeat Competency 3 3 Gen Ed: Breadth 3
Total Credits Required for the BFA in Theatre Arts = 120; Minimum GPA 2.0

* All Bachelor of Arts degrees at WCSU require that students complete a language at or above the elementary II level. Students who have completed three years of a foreign language at a minimum of a C average in high school have met this requirement. However, they must still complete at least one Intercultural Competency course.

Minor in Theatre (18 S.H.)

Eighteen semester hours in theatre which must include at least 12 semester hours above the 100-level and at least 3 semesters of THR 300. Emphasis must be on Theatre Arts. SH