THEA - Theatre Arts

THEA 100 Theatre Majors Seminar

An introductory course for first year students declared as theatre majors. Introduction to policies, procedures and academic requirements in the theatre program.

1

THEA 101 Theatre and Dance Productions

Laboratory in performance or production involving applications of theatre techniques to the various aspects of departmental productions. Majors and minors only.

1

THEA 102 Theatre and Dance Productions

Laboratory in performance of production involving applications of theatre techniques to the various aspects of departmental productions. Majors and minors only.

1

THEA 103 Fundamentals of Theatre Technology

Students will be assigned slots to complete all three rotations of instruction. Each rotation will consist of four sessions. Sessions will cover demonstrations and hands-on repetition of fundamental skills in Scenery, Costume and Lighting. This will include power tool safety and basic use, fundamental sewing/wardrobe skills and techniques, operating the rigging system, basic sound skills and hang/focus of lighting instruments.

1

THEA 110 Practicum

Areas of theatre not covered in regular curriculum such as travel courses, practical experiences in the field, etc. May be repeated for credit. Permission of instructor.

0.5

THEA 114 Introduction to the Performing Arts

A broad introduction to the Performing Arts including an historical perspective, elements of the performer's craft and repertoire, representative contributors to each Performing Art and the role of the audience member. The Performing Arts areas include theatre, music, dance, musical theatre and opera. Attendance at five Performing Arts events is required.

3

THEA 117 Script Analysis

Explores the process in evaluating/discovering production and performance values in a playscript.

3

THEA 121 Introduction to Technical Theatre

One-semester course covering terminology and processes of stage production including stagecraft, materials, lighting, sound, properties, costumes, etc. Lecture and laboratory participation. Concurrent enrollment in THEA 101 or 102 by majors and minors strongly suggested. Written production critiques required.

3

THEA 123 Introduction to Technical Production

Explores the responsibility of technical personnel, safety and organization of the backstage and scene shop, stage rigging, drafting for the stage, scenic materials and hardware. Practical work on department productions may be required. Lab fee required.

3

Prerequisites

THEA 121

THEA 125 Drawing and Drafting for the Theatre

Provides the student with a working knowledge of hand drafting as applied to theatre. Includes but is not limited to reading and interpreting set design plans, light plots, costume pattern drafting, creation of single and multiple plate drafting packets including plan views, design and construction elevations, section views, and detail drawings. B.F.A. Theatrical Production and Design majors only. Other theatre majors by permission of instructor.

3

Prerequisites

THEA 121

THEA 129 Backstage Magic

Ever been to a play, musical, opera or rock concert and wonder, "How did they do that?" This course will study the elements of design, tools and technology in the behind the scenes creation for the performing arts. This course delves into the areas of scenic, lighting, costume, and sound design and how they are implemented. The student will critique selected works as well as the works of classmate projects. Concurrent enrollment in THEA 229 CAD Lab is required and includes a $40 lab fee.

3

Corequisites

THEA 229

THEA 130 Acting for Non-Majors

Basic techniques of acting with emphasis on improvisation, script analysis and scene study. Attendance at campus theatrical events required.

3

THEA 131 Acting Studio: Acting I

Introduction to basic craft skills of acting with emphasis on self-awareness and discovery, spontaneity, and improvisation. B.F.A Acting and Musical Theatre majors only.

3

THEA 132 Acting Studio: Acting II

Introduction to theory and practice of the basic principles of Stanislavski realism with emphasis on character exploration and analysis. B.F.A. Acting and Musical Theatre majors only.

3

Prerequisites

THEA 131

THEA 133 Introduction to Acting

Basic craft skills of acting with emphasis on improvisation, character study, analysis and scene work. B.A. Theatre Arts majors and minors only.

3

THEA 140 Stage Dialects

Acquisition of basic skills by the performer or director in the use of major dialects. B.F.A. Acting and Musical Theatre majors only.

3

THEA 215 Voice and Movement for the Stage

This course will introduce students to a range of vocal and physical techniques for creative expression in performance. Through a series of exercises, trainings, and performance exercises, students will have the opportunity to reduce habitual tensions finding maximum affect with minimum effort, connect their movement and voice to imagery and text, and increase physical and vocal range, power, flexibility, and articulation. The class will cover techniques drawn from a wide variety of voice and movement pedagogies including Linklater, Viewpoints, Pilates and others.

3

THEA 220 Makeup

Selection, application, and evaluation of stage makeup. Includes wigging and facial hair techniques. Theatre majors and minors only.

1

THEA 221 Digital Tools for the Performing Arts

Introduces the student to the use of discipline-specific software programs and peripheral hardware used in the creation of designs and preparation of drawings used in technical production and for scenic costumes and lighting design. Includes in-depth training in Computer Aided Drafting techniques, and the study of VectorWorks software. 2-D drafting will be covered with an introduction to drawing in 3-D.

3

Prerequisites

THEA 125

THEA 222 Stagecraft I

Hands-on introductory course that covers standard theatrical scenic construction methods including metal and wood tools and fabrication, rigging and safety. Shop participation required. Lab fee required.

3

Prerequisites

THEA 121

THEA 223 Lighting and Sound Technology

This course is an introduction to the mechanics of stage lighting and sound. It includes basic electricity, tools, equipment, distribution and control for theatrical lighting and sound. The course will deal with the many aspects of implementing lighting and sound for a production.

3

Prerequisites

THEA 121

THEA 226 Scene Painting I

Color theory, preparation of painting surfaces, and basic painting techniques as they pertain to the theatre. B.F.A. Theatrical Production and Design majors only.

3

Prerequisites

THEA 123 or THEA 125

THEA 228 Costume Construction I

Laboratory exploration of basic costume construction techniques. Majors only.

3

THEA 229 Computer Aided Drafting Lab

Non-credit lab allowing the B.F.A Theatrical Production and Design student access to the theatre CAD Lab. Open to B.F.A. Theatrical Production and Design majors only.

0

THEA 230 Introduction to Scene Study

The course will present the fundamental principles of approaching the creation of a character on stage using the techniques of Stanislavski realism. B.A. Theatre Arts majors only.

3

Prerequisites

THEA 133 and THEA 117

THEA 231 Acting Studio: Scene Study I

Skills and techniques for role analysis and performance in realistic plays. B.F.A. Acting and Musical Theatre majors only.

3

Prerequisites

THEA 132

THEA 232 Acting Studio: Scene Study II

Skills and techniques for role analysis and performance in realistic plays. B.F.A. Acting and Musical Theatre majors only.

3

Prerequisites

THEA 231

THEA 233 Acting Lab I

A laboratory for exploration and development of scene study technique.

1

THEA 234 Acting Lab II

A laboratory for exploration and development of scene study technique.

1

THEA 242 Acting Studio: Introduction to Voice and Movement I

Designed to support the actor in freeing the voice/body and imagination for creative response. Physical/vocal awareness and ability are enhanced through the exploration of relaxation, alignment, flexibility, strength, breath, sound, and resonance.

3

Prerequisites

THEA 132

THEA 243 Acting Studio: Introduction to Voice and Movement II

A continuation of THEA 242 in supporting the actor in freeing the voice/body and imagination for creative response. Exercises to reinforce basic skills and further develop the actor's physical and vocal range, power, flexibility, and articulation.

3

Prerequisites

THEA 242

THEA 245 Sound for the Theatre

Study of the artistic elements of sound for the theatre and build upon the technical elements studied in THEA 223 Lighting and Sound Technology. Areas of study include: sound systems, electricity, recording techniques, script analysis for sound design, principles of sound design and the controllable qualities of sound. Each will be studied through class lectures, practical examples, and projects.

3

Prerequisites

THEA 315 and THEA 223

THEA 270 Theatre For Social Change

THEA 270 Theatre for Social Change (TSC) is an introductory course on practices and theories of Augusto Boal"™s Theatre of the Oppressed, Community-based Theatre and Theatre for Development. Eminently practical, we will explore and apply principles and techniques of six participatory theatre modalities: 1. Games for non-actors 2. Image theatre 3. Newspaper theatre 4. Invisible theatre 5. Forum theatre 6. Breaking the Oppression/Cop in the head In addition, we will survey the principles and practices of Community-Based Theatre and Theatre for Development models.

3

Prerequisites

THEA 117 and THEA 133

THEA 303 Rendering Technique I

Explores the graphic media and drawing techniques used by the designer in preparing drawings for the theatre with a focus on freehand sketching, gridding, and drop point perspective.

3

Prerequisites

THEA 125

THEA 304 Rendering Technique II

Continuation of THEA 303. Explores the graphic media, drawing techniques, color theory and composition used by the designer in preparing drawing and painting for the theatre. With emphasis in graphite, water color, guache, acrylic and marker.

3

Prerequisites

THEA 303

THEA 305 Rendering Technique III

Continuation of THEA 304. Explores the graphic media and drawing techniques used by the designer in preparing drawings for the theatre.

1

Prerequisites

THEA 123 and THEA 125

THEA 315 The Dramatic Imagination

Design students study the nature of the relationship between playscripts and theatrical designs through script and text analysis, literary criticism and research. Exploration of how dialogue and themes can be visualized through design. B.F.A. Theatrical Production and Design majors only.

3

Prerequisites

THEA 121

Corequisites

THEA 229

THEA 319 Costume Construction II

Intensive laboratory exploration of advanced costume construction techniques. Focus on growth of stitching skills.

3

Prerequisites

THEA 228

THEA 320 Advanced Makeup

Design and application of special effects, 3-D prosthetics, and appliances. Majors only.

3

Prerequisites

THEA 220

THEA 321 Costume Crafts, Dyeing and Painting

A rotation of basic costume accessory design and construction including but not limited to millinery, mask making, leather work, etc. As well as a laboratory exploration of the art and craft of dye/paint techniques for costumes. Union, acid, and fibre-reactive dyes, silk and fabric paints, and health and safety for costume artisans are covered. B.F.A. Theatrical Production and Design majors only. Theatre and Dance majors by permission.

3

THEA 322 Stagecraft II

Course covers the planning, organization and management skills needed to execute the construction of a theatrical scenic design. Lecture and computer lab participation required. Lab fee required.

3

Prerequisites

THEA 222

THEA 324 Lighting Design I

Principle of Stage Lighting Design and its application to a theatrical production. Will study the what and why lighting can bring to a production through practical projects.

3

Prerequisites

THEA 315 and THEA 125

THEA 325 History of Costume

Chronological survey of clothing and fashion; their sociological and artistic implications from the Egyptians to the 20th century.

3

THEA 326 Scene Design I

Principles, procedures, and development of scene design. Students must enroll in THEA 303, 304 or 305 simultaneously. B.F.A. Theatrical Production and Design majors only.

3

Prerequisites

THEA 315

THEA 327 Costume Design I

Costume design methods and concepts. Students must enroll in THEA 303, 304 or 305 simultaneously. B.F.A. Theatrical Production and Design majors only.

3

Prerequisites

THEA 325

THEA 328 Costume Design II

Continuation of THEA 327: development of more complicated sophisticated concepts. Students must enroll in THEA 303, 304 or 305 simultaneously. B.F.A. Theatrical Production and Design majors only.

3

Prerequisites

THEA 327

THEA 329 Flat Patterning

Flat pattern techniques as applied to the costume cutter. Use of slopers, methodology, and interpretation of sketches are emphasized. B.F.A. Theatrical Production andDesign majors only.

3

Prerequisites

THEA 228

THEA 330 Introduction to Styles

A continuation/culmination of the Intro to Acting (technique and craft), Intro to Scene Study (elements of characterization, scene arc, fine tuning craft) sequence. The Introduction to Styles allows a modified departure from the Realism we have studied to heightened language and period movement (Shakespeare, Coward, Moliere), physicalization (Comedy, Restoration, Melodrama) or elements of both (Soap Opera, Slap-stick, Sit-com, Simon).

3

Prerequisites

THEA 230

THEA 331 Acting Studio: Styles

Introduction to various acting tools for creating and sustaining characters and action in elevated and poetic texts from major periods of theatre history. Emphasis on ability to approach historical periods and genres while remaining intimately connected to personal truth.

3

Prerequisites

THEA 232

THEA 334 Digital Tools for the Performing Arts II

Exploration in creating theatre in a digital age. The class will focus on digital rendering but will also include some drafting, budget tracking and an artists digital presence on the web. Programs explored in the class will be Photo Shop, Corel Paint, Vectorworks and others.

3

Prerequisites

THEA 221 and THEA 304

THEA 337 Properties for the Stage

This course is an introduction to the craft, process, and administration associated with the work of the theatrical properties artisan and master. Topics covered will include found properties, refurbishment, creation of new properties, consumables, budgeting, and tracking.

3

Prerequisites

THEA 121 and THEA 125

THEA 338 Special Topics

Study of selected areas of theatre arts not covered in regular curricular program. May be repeated for credit. Permission of instructor.

.5-3

THEA 339 Stage Management

Introductory course that covers the organizational and interpersonal skills needed to stage manage live productions of theater, musical theater, or dance. Topics include the stage manager's role during casting, design process, rehearsals, technical production and performance.

3

Prerequisites

THEA 121

THEA 341 Acting Studio: Shakespeare

An introduction to the basic techniques used in Shakespearean acting. Major emphasis is placed on approaching Shakespeare through a careful analysis of the use of language and construction of the text. Enrollment limited to B.F.A. Acting/Musical Theatre majors or permission of instructor.

3

Prerequisites

THEA 230 or THEA 232

THEA 345 Acting Studio: Voice and Movement III

Explores additional methods to increase flexibility and range in speaking with an emphasis on heightened responsiveness to imagery and rhythms, along with additional methods to increase precision and range of movement with an emphasis on physical character work. B.F.A. Acting and Musical Theatre majors only.

3

Prerequisites

THEA 243

THEA 346 Acting Studio: Voice and Movement IV

Explores additional methods to increase precision and range of movement with an emphasis on unarmed and armed stage combat.

3

Prerequisites

THEA 242 and THEA 243

THEA 347 Stage Combat: Unarmed

This is a preliminary acting class designed to instruct students in the performance techniques, skills and illusions of unarmed stage combat.

3

Prerequisites

THEA 215

THEA 350 Introduction to Musical Theatre

The course will offer an introduction to the techniques of performing in, and auditioning for, musical theatre. Students will work on duet, solo, and group dance numbers, and on finding appropriate audition material. The class will focus on strengthening all aspects of the performer: singing, acting, and dancing. The class will treat musical theatre material with respect, approaching the texts as actors, as well as singers/dancers.

3

Prerequisites

THEA 131 and THEA 133

THEA 353 History of Musical Theatre

Development of the theatrical genre known as musical theatre. Special emphasis on musical comedy roots in 19th century America to the present.

3

THEA 359 Physical Theatre

The beginning of the professional theater in the western world can be traced directly from the Italian Renaissance form of physical theater known as the commedia dell"™Arte. No study of actor training would be complete without a thorough examination of the commedia, underlying principles, and contemporary developments and applications of the form. Actors will develop a heightened sensibility and understanding of movement and character through direct practice with the various masks and techniques of original and contemporary physical theatre forms

3

Prerequisites

THEA 232 and THEA 243

THEA 370 Scene Study

The course will present the fundamental principles of approaching the creation of a character on stage using the techniques of Stanislavski realism.

3

Prerequisites

THEA 117 and THEA 133

THEA 371 Fredonia Young Company I

Fredonia Young Company is an educational tour company devoted to bringing theatre shows to the schools that belong to Chautauqua School District. Composed entirely of BA students, FYC serves as a training ground for actors, designers, stage managers, dramaturgs, and directors, as well as the capstone experience to seniors who wish so. THEA 371 is a theoretical-practical course dedicated to the conceptualization, design, and basic blocking of the production. The production process culminates with a theatre tour in schools every spring semester.

1

Prerequisites

THEA 133 and THEA 215

THEA 372 Fredonia Young Company II

Practical course devoted to finalizing the staging phase initiated in THEA 371 FYC I and tour the show in four schools in the Dunkirk/Fredonia area. THEA 498 Senior Project students who have been admitted into the company may choose to use it as their senior project. The show will be performed in local elementary schools, and "Envision: Senior Showcase" in the months of March /April.

3

Prerequisites

THEA 371

THEA 381 Technical Theatre Seminar

Discussion seminar on problems and procedures of mounting theatrical productions. Includes scheduling personnel, weekly rehearsals and other pertinent current production needs. Does not apply to the required hours for major in Theatre Arts. May be repeated

0.5

THEA 382 Musical Theatre Styles I

The course, through scene study of musical theatre repertory, focuses on integration of song, dance and acting skills for the junior B.F.A. Musical Theatre student.

3

Prerequisites

THEA 232 and MUS 236

THEA 383 Acting Studio: Theatre Games

Through the study of improvisational techniques in the theatre, students will be exposed to a variety of long-form improvisation techniques designed to enhance spontaneity on the stage, develop sensory and perceptive skills, and approach character creation from a non-analytical perspective.

3

Prerequisites

THEA 232

THEA 384 History of Architecture and Decor for Theatre

This course is a study of architecture, decorative arts, and stage technology throughout history as they impact design for theatre. This course will look at periods of design from ancient Greece to the early Twentieth Century.

3

Prerequisites

THEA 125 and THEA 315

THEA 410 Acting for Media I

This course is designed to introduce the actor to fundamental theories and practices of acting for the camera.

3

THEA 411 Acting for Media II

THEA 411, Acting for Media II, will acquaint students with intermediate-level theories and practices of acting for the camera.

3

Prerequisites

THEA 410

THEA 415 Stage Combat: Medieval Weapons

This is an advanced acting class designed to instruct students in the performance techniques, skills and illusions of medieval weapons for stage combat.

3

Prerequisites

THEA 347

THEA 416 Stage Combat - Renaissance Weapons

This is an advanced acting course designed to instruct students in the safe and effective performance techniques, skills, and illusions of Stage Combat involving the use of Renaissance Weapons.

3

Prerequisites

THEA 347

THEA 420 Special Studies in Technical Theatre

Seminar and laboratory experience exploring a variety of processes and techniques in depth. B.F.A. Theatrical Production and Design majors only.

3

THEA 422 Stagecraft III

Intermediate to advanced scenic construction techniques as well as an introduction to scenic automation. Topics covered include: simple engineering principles and structural analysis, pneumatic power, electric motors and control systems.

3

Prerequisites

THEA 222

THEA 423 Acting Studio: Alternative Acting Styles

An exploration of alternative acting techniques such as non-realistic and non-western styles of acting. B.F.A. Acting/Musical Theatre majors only.

3

Prerequisites

THEA 232

THEA 424 The Business of Acting

Intensive study of skills needed by actors to increase their marketability in today's theatre. Open to B.F.A. Acting and Musical Theatre majors only.

3

Prerequisites

THEA 232

THEA 426 Scene Design II

Continuation of Scene Design I with specific emphasis on artistic requirements of the production. B.F.A. Production and Design majors only.

3

Prerequisites

THEA 326

THEA 427 Scene Painting II

An intensive laboratory experience exploring advanced techniques in painting, dimensional texture and surface treatments. May require practical work on productions. Will also co-supervise and mentor Scene Painting I students on some projects as part of learning how to run a paint crew. B.F.A. Theatrical Production and Design majors only

3

Prerequisites

THEA 226

THEA 429 Lighting Design II

This course is an introduction to the mechanics of stage lighting and sound. It includes basic electricity, tools, equipment, distribution and control for theatrical lighting and sound. The course will deal with the many aspects of implementing lighting and sound for a production.

3

Prerequisites

THEA 324

THEA 432 Musical Theatre Styles II

Advanced scene study and techniques for integrating all resources of the singing actor in musical theatre. B.F.A. Musical Theatre majors only or by permission of instructor.

3

Prerequisites

THEA 232

THEA 434 Musical Theatre Styles Lab

A co-requisite for THEA 432, the laboratory allows for exploration, musical coaching and preparation for the Musical Theatre Styles acting class.

1

Prerequisites

THEA 232

THEA 435 Rehearsal and Performance

Application of advanced techniques in preparation for studio and major productions.

1

THEA 436 Design/Technical Production

Application of advanced production techniques in a leadership position, preparing and executing Mainstage productions for the Department of Theatre and Dance.

1-3

THEA 441 Directing I: Principles of Directing

Theoretical and practical course in which we will discuss the fundamental principles of directing. Following the performance process from the proto performance to the aftermath, the goal of the class is to learn, step by step, how to transpose the dramatic writing of the text into scenic writing. Since the same dramatic text may produce an infinite number of readings, the crucial task of a director is to determine and concretize a unique way of staging the script. In this class we will exercise and develop the necessary skills, strategies, and methodologies to conceive a strong director's concept, which will be implemented in THEA 442 Directing II.

3

THEA 442 Directing II

Theoretical and practical course in which we will discuss and apply the fundamental principles of directing you were introduced to in the THEA 441 course.Topics include the director's function and responsibilities including play selection, auditioning/casting, staging techniques, and script analysis using the motivational unit as a basis of approach. Emphasis will be placed on preparation and presentation of the one-act play chosen in THEA 441, which will be presented in the context of Envision Showcase.

3

Prerequisites

THEA 441 and THEA 481

THEA 451 World Theatre in Context I

A survey of theatre history from pre-Greek to the 18th century. Performance and production elements in all ages will be covered. Junior or senior standing.

3

THEA 452 World Theatre in Context II

A survey of theatre history from 18th century to present. Performance and production elements in all ages will be covered. Prerequisite: Junior or senior standing.

3

THEA 460 Performing Arts Organization and Management

Performing Arts management including philosophy, management procedures, budgets, publicity/promotion, ticket office and house management procedures for educational, community and professional resident performing arts organizations. For Theatre, Dance and Music majors, Arts Administration minors, or permission of instructor.

3

THEA 467 Meisner Technique

This course explores the basic tenets of the Sanford Meisner acting technique, including repetition, activities, preparation, and scene work.

3

Prerequisites

THEA 231 or THEA 330 or THEA 470

THEA 468 Devising Theatre

The course is designed to give the student of theatre opportunities to create original theatre in a workshop setting. The course will introduce students to various processes of creating original theatre texts, scenarios and performances through group collaboration for a variety of contexts. Permission of instructor is required.

3

THEA 470 Styles

A continuation/culmination of the THEA 133 Intro to Acting (technique and craft),and THEA 370 Scene Study (elements of characterization, scene arc, fine tuning craft) sequence. The Introduction to Styles allows a modified departure from the Realism we have studied to heightened language and period movement (Shakespeare, Coward, Moliere), physicalization (Comedy, Restoration, Melodrama) or elements of both (Soap Opera, Slap-stick, Sit-com, Simon).

3

Prerequisites

THEA 117 and THEA 133 and THEA 370

THEA 481 Senior Projects Seminar

A seminar course that discusses challenges that BA and BFA students often face after graduation and starts to prepare them for their capstone projects. Topics may include, but are not limited to: resumes, cover letters, graduate schools, portfolios, and life as an artist.

1

THEA 482 Independent Studies in Theatre

Intensive individual study of an aspect of theatre that is of particular interest to the student. Criteria for Independent Study will be developed on a case-by-case basis between the student and their chosen faculty mentor. Completed Independent Study proposal form required for registration. May be repeated for credit.

1-3

THEA 490 Professional Theatre Intern

Approved and supervised work-training experience in professional theatre company. Permission of department required.

1-15

THEA 498 Senior Project

Development of a capstone project intended for public presentation. Students will be expected to execute a theatrical project in either performance, design, or other area in theatre as approved by faculty advisement. The project should demonstrate competence in all aspects of the student"™s degree program.

3

Prerequisites

THEA 481

THEA 499 Performance/Production Seminar

Development and public presentation of a creative project as a senior recital. Senior standing; B.F.A. Acting or Theatrical Production and Design majors only.

3

THEA 530 Selected Studies in Theatre Arts

In-depth study of various specific areas in the theatre, either literature or production. Student should have an undergraduate degree in Theatre; permission of department required.

1-12

THEA 531 Selected Studies in Theatre Arts

In-depth study of various specific areas in the theatre, either literature or production. Student should have an undergraduate degree in Theatre; permission of the department required.

1-12