Theatre Arts
All theater courses require attendance at specified productions.
THR 100 Introduction to Theatre Production Lab FY 1-3 SH
Designed to transition theatre arts majors into university life and into the organizational structure of theatre production, this course introduces the student to the culture and resources of the academic community while experiencing the collaborative process of play production. Presented in a lecture and lab format, students will be introduced to the values, culture and resources of the academic community while being introduced to theatre production and the inter-relatedness of scenery, lighting, costume, sound, musical accompaniment, management, marketing and performance. Lab activity requires a minimum of sixty (60) hours of supervised laboratory work in as least one of the following areas: set construction, lighting crew, costume tech, sound tech, running crew, front of house management and rehearsal and performance. Competency: First Year Navigation (FY).
THR 105 Social Issues and Justice in Theatre 2 SH
In this course, students will engage with complex issues to strengthen communities and promote change. This course will use a cross-cultural approach to survey the dynamic and effective strategies of theatre artists engaged in social justice work. This class investigates topics such as systemic violence, power, and privilege, alongside community building, ethics, and identity. Analyzing artistic processes from multiple perspectives provides frameworks to understand how students can pursue their theatrical aspirations while also working toward equity and justice for marginalized groups and communities.
THR 107W Play Structure and Analysis 3 SH
This course will introduce students to a range of representative dramatic works comprising the following structural frameworks: 1) Well-made play; 2) Episodic play; 3) Circular play. Each will be analyzed through the lenses of character, theme, plot, and philosophical underpinnings. The course will help students develop the ability to read, appreciate, analyze, and discuss the distinctions and similarities among the play structures within production, aesthetic, cultural, historical, and philosophical contexts. These tasks will be directed toward specific application and praxis appropriate to the courses of study for the department’s BFA degrees in Performance, Design/Tech, Management, and Musical Theatre, as well as the extant BA in Theatre Arts, introducing the basic script-analysis skills necessary for exploring texts primarily for production, rather than a literary viewpoint. May be taken for major credit. Every semester. Prerequisites: WRT 101 or equivalent on placement exam. Competency: Writing Intensive Tier 2 (W2).
THR 110 Theatre Management 3 SH
This course will provide a comprehensive overview of the different management styles and responsibilities of stage managers, company managers, production managers and house managers as related to their roles in executing a theatrical production.
THR 113 Musical Theater Studio 0 SH
This non-credit course is designed to provide students majoring in Musical Theatre a weekly, formal performance and listening experience. This course not only provides regular performance opportunities for students, but also provides them an opportunity to listen and gain exposure to the wide catalogue of repertoire available within the Musical Theatre canon. In addition, the course also provides the opportunity for guest lectures and presentations on a variety of topics, including academic success, entrepreneurship, professional development, health, and pedagogy.
THR 125 Design Fundamentals for Media 3 SH
This course introduces the student of Theatrical Design and Technology, to the important fundamentals of hand drawing and design for ALL future design applications. Included in this class will be exploration of the principles of hand drawing, color theory, visual research, sensorial expression and all basic design elements as they apply to theatre scenography. It is the first in the series for theatrical design candidates. This class is open to non-majors, space permitting. Every fall semester. Competency: Creative Process (CP).
THR 150 Performance Techniques: Integration of Voice & Movement 3 SH
A beginning in-depth analysis and practice of the physical and vocal instruments based on the Linklater Method. This class is designed to remove hidden blocks that inhibit the human instrument, recondition the mind and body of the actor, and support the development of a vocal technique for effective communication both on stage and in our daily lives. Every semester.
THR 171 Musical Theatre Workshop 3 SH
This course provides an introduction to the world of musical theatre through the study of both traditional and contemporary musical theatrical forms. Focus is on rehearsal techniques for the musical theatre through the performance of scenes and ensemble pieces. Script and music will be analyzed and performances developed using various techniques including improvisation. Students learn the acting concepts for transitioning from spoken word to singing, and ultimately to dance.. Historical and societal context will be explored. This class culminates in a final open rehearsal that demonstrates the student’s proficiency in multiple musical theatre genres. Every semester.
THR 180 Introduction to Theater Arts 3 SH
Designed for non-majors, an exploration of the way theatre both shapes and reflects society, with a critical examination of the various arts and skills involved. Study will include the various artists and technicians participating in the collaborative process of making theatre. Emphasis is on the creative function of the contemporary audience and how individuals of diverse eras and cultures have related to theatrical performance. Every semester. Competency: Creative Process (CP).
THR 181 Acting I: Character Study 3 SH
The foundations for playing a character will be explored through theatre games, improvisation and scene study. The course will explore the Stanislavski Method for actors. Emphasis will be on script analysis, performance and discussion within a studio setting. Students are required to participate in all course-related activities. Every fall semester. Competency: Creative Process (CP).
THR 182 Technical Theater I 3 SH
This is the introduction to stagecraft, lighting and sound. Using both lecture and practical application students will learn the vocabulary and skill to support technical production for the theatre. A minimum of 30 hours of supervised production work outside of the class is a requirement. Every semester.
THR 183 Applied Voice for BFA Musical Theatre 1 SH
An eight semester course of private voice lessons focusing on the development of how the vocal mechanism operates as well as learning healthy, strong and musical vocal production as applied to the repertoire of the Musical Theatre Canon. Prerequisite: Acceptance by audition only into BFA Musical Theatre Program.
THR 201 Playmaking with Children 3 SH
A study of the various techniques and skills associated with the practice of creative drama introduced through three main approaches: activity-based work, literature-based work/story drama, and situation-based work/process drama. Through the use of informal dramatic forms incorporating art, music, stories, games, poetry and improvisation, students will develop a practical understanding of the various skills and techniques needed to use creative drama strategies as an art form and as a teaching tool in a variety of contexts. Every fall semester. Prerequisite: THR 181. Competency: Creative Process (CP).
THR 202 Technical Theater II 3 SH
A studio course concentrating on lighting, sound and technical drawing for stage and studio. Students will work on the transformation of the script into both audio and visual presentation. Individual and group analysis of design/technical needs and solutions are presented. Every fall semester. Prerequisite: THR 182.
THR 204 Musical Theatre History I: Pre – 1943 3 SH
This course offers students an opportunity to analyze the developmental history of the indigenous American art form of musical theatre. With a historical and ethical lens, students will explore the earliest origins and influences of musical theatre against the backdrop of a socially evolving and industrially developing American landscape before World War II. By engaging with a variety of genres and forms spanning over a decade of contributions from international, immigrant, enslaved, and underserved populations, this course will provide a greater understanding of the diverse communities upon which this artform was conceived. Competency: Intercultural (IC).
THR 207 Dance for Musical Theatre: Jazz 2 SH
Introductory analysis and practice of jazz for theatre performance. Students develop an understanding of fundamental jazz movement principles with strong emphasis on style, terminology, and skill preparation for musical theatre performance. May be repeated once on recommendation of instructor. Prerequisite: Department permission.
THR 208 Dance for Musical Theatre: Tap 2 SH
Introductory analysis and practice of tap dance for theatre performance. Students develop an understanding of fundamental tap movement principles with strong emphasis on style, terminology, and skill preparation for musical theatre performance. May be repeated once on recommendation of instructor.
THR 209 Dance for Musical Theatre: Modern 2 SH
Introductory analysis and practice of modern dance for theatre performance. Students develop an understanding of fundamental modern dance movement principles with an emphasis on terminology, and skill preparation for musical theatre performance. May be repeated once on recommendation of instructor. Prerequisite: Department permission.
THR 210 Stage Management 3 SH
A study of the basic skills and responsibilities of the Stage Manager as the master link in the production chain, providing constant communication between the various specialized areas of the production. Focus will be placed on methods of communication whereby all departments are coordinated, kept current with progress and deadlines within the rehearsal process, and are coordinated when in performance. Techniques for complete documentation of all aspects of the production will be studied.
THR 214 Musical Musical Theatre History II: 1943-Present 3 SH
This course offers students an opportunity to analyze the recent developmental history of the indigenous American art form of musical theatre. With a historical and ethical lens, students will trace the development of the “Golden Age” musical as a uniquely American cultural artifact against the backdrop of an expanding American landscape after World War II. By engaging with a variety of genres and forms ranging from the mid-20th century until today, this course will explore the influences and contributions from international and underrepresented populations, both global and domestic. In turn, students will gain a greater understanding of the multicultural appropriations that are intrinsic to Musical Theatre as an art form, and how they have challenged, delighted, and often troubled audiences from diverse populations for decades. Competency: Intercultural (IC).
THR/WRT 244 Playwriting Workshop 3 SH
See WRT/THR 244W. Competency: Creative Process (CP).
THR 252 Acting for the Camera 3 SH
An introduction to the principles and techniques of acting on camera, this course explores different techniques for work with three cameras, commercials, acting for film and acting for television. Focus is given to techniques for various camera types of auditions. Every spring semester. Prerequisite: THR 181.
THR 260 Voice and Diction 3 SH
Extending the skills, exercises, and techniques introduced in THR 150, Performance Techniques, this course guides the student through advanced work for healthy vocal communication. It begins with a review of what is considered optimal posture and alignment, breath (including support), vibration, resonance, and articulation. The course work aims to provide a series of exercises to free, develop and strengthen the voice as a human instrument in context of human communication and as a performer’s instrument. The International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) is used as a practical tool for hearing and notating the sounds used in language. Every semester. Prerequisite: THR 150.
THR 261 Dialects for the Stage 2 SH
A continuation of THR 260 Voice and Diction. This course builds upon the previous study of IPA, vocal range, and elements of speech by introducing the study of selected dialects for performance, including dialects in cultural context and their application to dramatic text. Prerequisites: THR 260
THR 270 Black American Theatre 3 SH
This course will examine what it means to perform black identity both onstage and in the public sphere. Within the context of American theatrical, social, and political histories, we will interrogate primarily how some of the country’s foremost Black and Black-identified playwrights interpret that performance in theatrical form. In addition, we will explore the history of Black/American theatre in the United States and how enslavement and post-enslavement phenomena also shaped public performance of blackness, in and out of the theatre. We will contextualize cultural, historical, performative, and theatrical modes of expression within the plays under examination to development an ethical understanding of the legacy of performing race and ethnicity before and into the 21st century. Prerequisite: WRT 101 or appropriate placement. Competency: Intercultural (IC).
THR 271 Meisner Technique 3 SH
An introduction to Sanford Meisner’s approach to developing acting technique. This course provides a step-by-step progression of exercises that develops the actor’s ability to work organically off what exists, moment by moment, which leads to creating truthful, expressive behavior in acting. Prerequisites: THR 181
THR 279 History of the Theater 3 SH
A study of the sources and contributions of the theater in the cultures of past and present world civilizations. Emphasis will be on the conventions, forces and trends which have created and given form to the theater. Covers the period from ancient to modern theater. Every fall semester.
THR 281 Acting II: Scene Study 3 SH
Theory and practice in advanced techniques of character development inside the context of a scene. Study includes analysis of scene structures, styles and role study. Lecture, discussion, improvisational exploration and laboratory performance. Every fall semester. Prerequisite: THR 181. Competency: Creative Process (CP).
THR 283 Scenic Design 3 SH
A study of the standards, techniques and skills involved in designing scenery for stage and an application of these principles through design and development of stage design projects: drafting, sketching, visual research and rendering, will be undertaken. Students will engage in practical experience on current productions, lecture, discussion and laboratory. Every other spring semester. Prerequisite: THR 182 or permission of the instructor.
THR 284 Costume Technology for Theatre 3 SH
Through this course, students will gain an understanding of how costumes are constructed for theatre. By way of completed costume construction projects, students will learn: basic hand and machine sewing skills, beginner draping, and construction techniques such as pattern drafting, etc. This class will also touch upon costume craft techniques of millinery, dying and novelty application. Every semester.
THR 286 Theatre History II 3 SH
Theatre History II is intended to explore, chronologically, the development of theatre, as literary art and performance event, from the late 19th century to the late 20th century. The course focuses on the production of primary Western theatre in its historical, social, aesthetic, and ideological contexts. In many ways, theatre has witnessed and reflected tensions generated by the changes in human environment. Theatre has integrated itself into the social and cultural fabrics of the communities in which it exists, and its practices and artistic trends have crossed geopolitical as well as artistic boundaries. This course will explore the primary movements and developments on the western stage that continue to exert some of the most significant influences in contemporary theatre. Competency: Critical Thinking (CT).
THR 289 Children’s Theater Practicum 3 SH
A study of, and a practical working in, the various aspects of children’s theater, including script selection, acting styles, costuming, makeup and scene building, culminating in several productions of a children’s play. In this course, children’s theater is defined as presenting plays by adults for children. Lecture, discussion and laboratory. Every spring semester. Prerequisite: THR 181 or permission of the instructor.
THR 293 Stage Combat 2 SH
Students will study and practice the mechanics of combat and violence for the stage. This course focuses on safe performance techniques for violence in both period and contemporary texts. Prerequisites: THR 181
THR 295 Musicianship for Musical Theatre I 3 SH
This course serves as an introduction to music theory and ear training for students pursuing a BFA in Musical Theatre.
THR 296 Musicianship for Musical Theatre I 3 SH
This course serves as a continuation of music theory and ear training study for students pursuing a BFA in
Musical Theatre. Prerequisite: THR 295.
THR 297 Cooperative Education 1–6 SH
THR 298 Faculty Developed Study 1–6 SH
THR 299 Student Developed Study 1–6 SH
THR 300 Theater Production Lab 1–3 SH
Designed for majors with participation by non-majors by special permission. Active participation in theatre activities. Theatre Majors must earn one credit every semester, portfolio semester optional. Activity requires a minimum of sixty (60) hours of supervised, laboratory work. This course may be repeated for credit, but not more than three semester hours may be earned in one semester. First and second-year theatre arts students will rotate in scenery, lighting, costume, sound, musical accompaniment, management, company management, marketing and performance. Every semester.
THR 305 Dance Combination Class 1 SH
Advanced course in dance performance and audition techniques and styles of Musical Theatre with strong emphasis on detail and elevated technical proficiency and heightened musicianship skills. Movement studies are performed to familiarize students with a variety of musical theatre dance styles. May be repeated twice on recommendation of instructor. Every semester. Prerequisite: THR 207, 208 and 209.
THR 306 Costume Technology II 3 SH
This course is designed for those students who have achieved & demonstrated an understanding of the basic skills taught in Costume Technology I (THR 284). Costume Technology II will build upon these skills to expand the students’ knowledge & practice of theatrical costume construction. Being a project based course, the students will learn flat pattern drafting, draping, fitting & alterations techniques as well as historical patterning & construction. This course has a lab requirement which will include work on the department’s various productions. Prerequisite: THR 284.
THR 307 Allied Crafts in 3D for Stage 3 SH
This course serves as an extension of techniques explored in Scenic Art and Craft [THR 383] with particular focus on allied crafts of the props artisan. This exploration in advanced techniques of stagecraft fabrication will include: casting, sculpting, upholstery, sign work, woodwork and welding as they apply to theatrical application as well as advanced scene painting techniques. Historical research and context for projects will be examined, as will be the above fabrication techniques. Emphasis will be given to context (historical research), application of techniques and craftsmanship of form. Prerequisite: THR 383.
THR 308 Sound Design 3 SH
This course will be an introduction, exploration, and analysis of the role of sound design and the sound designer for theater as both an artistic and technical process. Students will examine the function and operation of various pieces of sound equipment, the process of creating a cohesive design through script analysis and collaboration, as well as the conceptualization and development of those ideas in the classroom and then executing them in labs and production assignments.
THR 310 Stage Management II 3 SH
This course is designed to provide continued study and practical application of the evaluative skills introduced in THR 210 Stage Management. Students will have the opportunity to analyze current productions through the practice of learned organizational concepts as they apply to industry collective bargaining agreements for actors, technicians, and other theatrical personnel. The continued practice of advanced techniques include refinement of recording documentation of prompt books, blocking notation, and rehearsal and performance procedures. In addition, stage management forms and formats will continue to be enhanced to reflect organizational skills. Prerequisites: THR 210
THR 312 Evolution of Fashion 3 SH
In this course, students will be able to identify themes related to the history of clothing through historical periods of dress, alongside the political, environmental, religious, and social trends of their time and place. Students will explore different regions of the world, analyzing their influences on fashion and dress, and translating those historical practices into designs for the stage. Prerequisites: THR 284
THR/WRT 346 Playwriting Workshop II 3 SH
See WRT/THR 346.
THR 370 Cabaret Performance 3 SH
This course will introduce the performer to the dynamics of style in the interpretation of song lyrics and musical composition. Examples drawn upon will include classics from the American musical theater, standards from the field of popular entertainment, ballads and unique pieces associated with particular performers. Emphasis will be on performance of sung material in contrasting styles, researching the body of work of selected lyricists and/or composers and the creation of persona in the performance of musical literature. Alternate spring semesters. Prerequisite: THR 150, THR 181 and THR 281.
THR 371 Musical Theater Workshop 3 SH
This course provides an introduction to the world of musical theater through the study of traditional musical theatrical forms. Students learn the acting concepts for transitions from spoken word to singing and then to dance. This class culminates in a final presentation that demonstrates a student’s proficiency in multiple musical theater genres. Every fall semester. Prerequisite: THR 150, THR 181 and THR 281.
THR 383 Methods of Scenic Art and Craft 3 SH
This course will explore and examine the historical, developmental and fabrication techniques of faux finish decorative painting, history of decorative arts and three-dimensional properties construction. As part of this exploration, particular attention will be paid to research, identification and restoration of historical artifacts. Every semester. Prerequisite: THR 182 or ART 105 or ART 108 or permission of the instructor.
THR 384 Fundamentals of Stage Lighting 3 SH
An introduction to the theories and methods of stage and television lighting. The focus is on the use of technology and the design process. Alternate spring semesters. Prerequisite: THR 182.
THR 386 Directing I 3 SH
This course is an introduction to the theories and methods of stage lighting. The focus is on the use of technology and the design process. Alternate spring semesters. Prerequisite: THR 182. Competency: Critical Thinking (CT).
THR 387 Devised Theatre Workshop 3 SH
An exploration of the collaborative process, students will develop and perform original work created by the group. Performance pieces will be based on a selected theme, starting with individual presentation of material and expanding to a group presentation developed through techniques of devising theatre. Utilizing methods such as improvisation, Viewpoints, spontaneous group writing, solo performance, transformation exercises, and story-telling, the class participants will focus on ensemble building, theatrical design and production, storytelling, music, media, art, movement, voice, and problem solving. Every fall semester. Prerequisite: THR 181 and THR 182.
THR 388 Acting III: Period Styles 3 SH
A studio course which focuses on the development and study of advanced acting techniques through analysis and performance of works from various theatrical periods. Scenes from each style/period will be performed and critiqued in class after lectures, analysis, discussion and historical research. Prerequisite: THR 181 and THR 281 and completion of 60 semester hours. Spring semester.
THR 389 Auditioning Techniques for the Actor 3 SH
This class will prepare the student for the auditioning process through intensive work on dramatic and comedic monologues and scenes and vocal selections appropriate to the individual skills. Students should have significant theater and vocal experience. This course is experiential with lectures, demonstrations, exercises, breakdowns, simulated auditions and field trips for real auditions. Alternate spring semesters. Prerequisite: THR 181 and THR 281.
THR 390 Play Production 3 SH
A study of the basic principles in the production of plays: play selection, casting, directing, stage designing, scenery, lighting, costuming and publicity. Alternate spring semesters.
THR 392 Scene into Song 3 SH
Advanced Musical Theatre workshop focusing on scene work which transitions seamlessly into traditional and contemporary musical theatre songs. Students will analyze, rehearse, and perform duets, trios, and other ensemble numbers. Prerequisite: THR 171 and THR 372.
THR 394 Advanced Stage Lighting and Design 3 SH
A continuation of THR 384 Fundamentals of Stage Lighting. This course provides an in depth look at analyzing and designing lighting for the stage. Lighting designs will be examined and executed for various venues and types of live performance. This course will focus on refining the design process while learning the requirements and individual characteristics of each venue. Prerequisites: THR 384
THR 402 Honors Seminar in Theater Arts 3 SH
A colloquium to examine in depth a particular question or specific body of work in theater. The course will involve extensive reading and the presentation of a paper. May be taken twice for credit. Prerequisite: Invitation from the department.
THR 483 Extended Applied Voice for BFA Musical Theatre 2 SH
Hour-long private voice lessons focusing on the development of how the vocal mechanism operates as well as learning healthy, strong and musical vocal production as applied to the repertoire of the Musical Theatre Canon.
THR 488 Acting IV: Performing Shakespeare 3 SH
An exploration of the basics of performing Shakespearean text including: text analysis, character analysis and period style. Students will complete the class with multiple Shakespearean monologues prepared for audition purposes and will have experience performing Shakespearean scenes. Every other semester. Prerequisites: THR 181
THR 490 Senior Portfolio — Theater Arts 3 SH
With the help of a faculty advisor, students will develop a project that demonstrates their proficiency in an area of theatre arts. Areas of specialization may include, but are not limited to, design/technology, stage management, production management, performance, theatre studies or musical theatre. Each project will have a written research component and a practical application that culminates in a presentation and/or performance that demonstrates the student’s ability to grasp and utilize the techniques in their area of specialization. All projects must be approved by a faculty review panel and have final research documentation as part of the final project. A panel, or jury, of at least three full-time faculty will review and evaluate the final (portfolio) project. Prerequisite: Theatre majors, in good academic standing, who have ninety credits by the start of the semester in which the class is offered. Fall semester. Competency: Culminating Experience (CE), Writing Intensive Tier 3 (W3).
THR 495 Senior Showcase 1 SH
This is an advanced theatre course offered in a student’s final Spring semester. This course is dedicated to the conceptualization, organization, rehearsal, and performance of a NYC Industry Showcase.
The following courses also have been approved and are offered periodically:
THR 163 Essentials of Oral Interpretation.
THR 255 Performance Techniques: Pantomimic Dramatization.
THR 285 Body Movement and Mime.
THR 363 Advanced Oral Interpretation.
THR 486 Directing II: Styles, Theory and Practice.