Theatre Classes Currently Offered

NOTE: Courses listed below are displaying descriptions of permanent classes from the current semester. Special Topics Courses and Classes Recommended for First Year Students are listed further down the page.

• THEA 101 - Intro To Musical Theater

  This course is an introduction to musical theatre in which you will learn about theatre artists’ work with music, lyrics, book, direction, choreography, acting, and design. You will: attend lectures; explore musical scripts/librettos and videos of musicals; study a textbook; complete creative projects, open-book quizzes, and exams; and attend live performances. Ultimately, the course will help you to better appreciate, analyze, and respond to musical theatre by increasing your understanding of what goes into the making of it. 4 credits.  COURSE IS APPROPRIATE FOR FIRST-YEAR STUDENTS. OFFERED EVERY OTHER SEMESTER. Levels: Undergraduate

• THEA 102 - Introduction To Theater

  This course is an introduction to theatre in which you will learn about the work of playwrights, directors, actors, and designers, as well as about theatre history, styles, and forms. You will: attend lectures; explore play scripts and videos of plays; study a textbook; complete creative projects, open-book quizzes, and exams; and attend live performances. Ultimately, the course will help you to better appreciate, analyze, and respond to theatre by increasing your understanding of what goes into the making of it. 4 credits. COURSE IS APPROPRIATE FOR FIRST-YEAR STUDENTS. OFFERED EVERY SEMESTER. Levels: Undergraduate

• THEA 119 - Musical Theatre Singing

  This semester will provide an opportunity for you to develop your unique expressive skills through singing! Each class will be a journey exploring techniques used for healthy vocal production through the discussion and study of postural alignment, breathing, tone production, diction, phrasing, text communication and interpretation. Offered regularly. 2 credits. Levels: Undergraduate

• THEA 203 - Theory of Technical Production

  Lectures and discussions on technical elements that make a theater production. Classes delve into introductory material on designers and their functions; scenic and costume construction techniques; stage rigging, hardware and material; sound; stage procedures and safety. Simple drafting projects and the ability to read floor plans and stage elevations are stressed. This class has as a co-requisite THEP 216. To sign up for THEA 203 and THEP 216 you must be free for all times and dates (all rehearsals and performances) for 1 of the shows listed below. If you are not able to do a show, you may be asked to drop the class. THIS COURSE IS APPROPRIATE FOR FIRST-YEAR STUDENTS. Prerequisite: None Co-requisite: THEP 216 Levels: Undergraduate

• THEA 204 - History of the Theatre

  Content and approach examine primary aspects of theatrical performance from the time of the ancient Greeks to approximately 1870. Traces the development of theater architecture, theatrical design concepts, theater technology, acting styles and playwriting. Concentration is on Western theater, but attention is given to non-Western forms when possible and/or appropriate. . Required for major. Lectures augmented by audio and visual elements. THIS COURSE IS APPROPRIATE FOR FIRST-YEAR STUDENTS. Students that have taken THEA 304 will not receive credit for THEA 204. Required for majors. 4 credits. Offered Fall semester Levels: Undergraduate

• THEA 207 - Actor Trng I - Basic Processes

  In this introductory course you will learn methods to embody the art of acting for live performances. Special attention is given to truthful doing and self-awareness, reducing self-consciousness. You'll learn communication techniques and develop physical and vocal presence. The course includes regular warm-ups, theatre exercises, improvisations, script analysis, and culminates in the performance of a final scene. You'll engage with contemporary dramatic texts from a diverse group of playwrights and see live theatrical performances. This class or THEA208 is a requirement for Theatre Majors with an Acting/Directing emphasis. Notes: THIS COURSE IS APPROPRIATE FOR FIRST-YEAR STUDENTS.  Offered in Fall and Spring. 4 credits. Levels: Undergraduate

• THEA 208 - Acting I

  This course is the advanced section of THEA 207, Acting 1. It is intended for students who have had previous acting experience. Special attention is given to truthful doing, self-awareness and embodying the art of acting. The course includes regular warm-ups, theatre exercises, improvisations, script analysis, and culminates in the performance of a final scene.  You'll engage with contemporary dramatic texts from a diverse group of playwrights and see live theatrical performances. This class or THEA207 is a requirement for Theatre Majors with an Acting/Directing emphasis. SPECIAL PREREQUISITES: Admission by instructor's permission. Interview/Auditions held prior to the first day of classes. THIS COURSE IS APPROPRIATE FOR FIRST-YEAR STUDENTS.  Offered in Fall. 4 credits Levels: Undergraduate

• THEA 219 - Broadway for Beginners

  Are you curious about performing in musicals, but not sure where to begin? Then this class is for you! Learn the foundations of various aspects of musical theatre performance (singing, dancing, and acting) and bring songs from the musical theatre canon to life. There is no audition requirement for this course; students with no experience are especially encouraged to take this class! Offered regularly. 4 credits. Levels: Undergraduate

• THEA 222 - Beginning Dance

  If you’ve wondered about dance, but haven’t taken the plunge, then Beginning Dance is for you. In a nurturing, mutually‐accepting environment, we will explore the fundamentals of dance technique including weight‐sharing, partnering, memorization, line and breath, balance, poise, musicality resulting in a performance of introductory level choreography. This class can be a stepping stone to more advanced classes in Modern, Jazz, Ballet and other styles. Participants will perform daily stretches and calisthenics that will leave them stronger, more flexible, and with better endurance. On the first day of class, students will be assessed based on a provided dance exercise and placed in the appropriate class (scheduled at the same time) to best advance their learning. Offered regularly. 4 credits. Levels: Undergraduate

• THEA 223 - Dance Technique I: Tap

  Basic tap technique, terminology and rhythm. Covers beginner level skills and tap history. Offers physical exercise, along with an introduction to the art of tap dancing. For majors and non-majors. Meets two times per week. Experience helpful but not necessary. 2 credits. Offered in Fall and Spring. Repeatable. Levels: Undergraduate

• THEA 225 - Dance Technique I: Ballet

  An introductory level course based on the practical and theoretical principles of Classical Ballet. The student will learn about body alignment, barre and center work as well as the history of both Classical and Contemporary Ballet. This course is for beginners in dance as well as students who are looking to refine and perfect their technique. For majors and non-majors. Meets four times per week. Prerequisites: None THIS COURSE IS APPROPRIATE FOR FIRST-YEAR STUDENTS. Repeatable, 4 credits. Levels: Undergraduate

• THEA 226 - Dance Technique I: Jazz

  First level of jazz dance that introduces students to jazz technique. The course will cover various jazz styles including, concert, night club, television and film, in addition to Broadway. This is a strenuous and physically demanding class. It will explore the dance styles of Bob Fosse, Jack Cole, Lester Horton, Luigi, Fred Benjamin, Frank Hatchett, and other famous styles of jazz throughout history. Class will include coverage of the origins of Jazz dance and is particularly suited to the student studying musical theatre. THIS COURSE IS APPROPRIATE FOR FIRST-YEAR STUDENTS. For majors and non-majors. Meets four times per week. Repeatable. 4 credits Offered Fall and Spring semester Levels: Undergraduate

• THEA 227 - Dance Technique I: Modern

  Modern Dance originated as a technique that centered around innovation, artistic expression and self-discovery, attracting diverse artists and choreographers for over a century since its inception as a dance form. Our introductory class concentrates on fundamentals of Modern Dance, its revolutionary movement philosophy, spectacular choreographic vocabulary, and profound cultural impact. Through learning technique elements, dance phrases, and movement combinations students will learn about Modern Dance development and its contribution to world dance culture through the works of artists like Martha Graham, Jose Limon, Merce Cunningham, Alvin Ailey, and Paul Taylor. This course is designed as an introductory dance course for both Theatre majors and welcomes interested non-majors. There are scheduled quizzes, writing and/or movement assignments and a final project. THIS COURSE IS APPROPRIATE FOR FIRST-YEAR STUDENTS. Repeatable. Meets four times per week. 4 credits Levels: Undergraduate

• THEA 229 - Beginning African Dance

  Dance is one of the oldest art forms in Africa. It reflects the culture of people in many contexts. This course introduces students to authentic African dance traditions from Ghana. It explores the meaning, values and various contexts in which dance is performed among Ghanaian societies. Beginning with basic timeline and dance steps, students will understand various movements, gestures and expressions as a significant means of communicating ideas and enforcing social bonds. Students will also learn songs that accompany the dances to deepen their understanding and interrelatedness of holistic African and Ghanaian music and dance cultures. 4 credits. Offered most fall and spring semesters. Levels: Undergraduate

• THEA 240 - Principles of Design 2D/3D

  An introduction to the fundamental principles of two-dimensional and three-dimensional composition, employing those practices as stand-alone exercises, then expanding those practices as related specifically to theatrical design. Design theory, color theory, and basic rendering techniques are included. Alignment to text, music, and/or thematic structures are prioritized. Focus is given to overall production design, including how set, projections/media, lighting, sound and costume design are realized through the collaborative process in the creation of a live theatrical production. This class will focus on the development of foundational skills employed in the creation of a theatrical production. These primary design skills support performing arts and entertainment-related projects beyond a theatre setting where the ability to collaborate with other members of a creative team is necessary. Offered every two years, typically in fall. 4 credits. Levels: Undergraduate

• THEA 242 - Foundational Drawing in Design

  An introduction to the principles and practices related to drawing by hand. This studio-style course will focus on the foundational drawing skills needed for future design classes for theatre and other entertainment related media with a focus on exploring form through observation using line, shading, tone, and texture in graphite only. Offered fall only. 2 credits. Levels: Undergraduate

• THEA 243 - Intro to Costume Technology

  An introduction to the principles and practices of technology to build and sew clothing/costumes. This in class course will focus on skills needed for costume construction in theatre and other entertainment related media, such as cos-play, with a focus on machine and hand sewing in the costume shop. No prior sewing knowledge is required. Learn the basics skills with us to inspire your future creativity! Offered fall only. 4 credits. Levels: Undergraduate

• THEA 257 - Intro to Stage Management

  This introductory course highlights the essential role of the Stage Manager as the main communication hub and navigator for a theatrical production. Offers an overview of the organizing principles in paperwork, organizing rehearsal spaces, staging, and communication skills, which aid in accomplishing this successfully. You will learn how productions happen from the first production meeting through to closing night on different scales, from academic theater up to Broadway. This course places a strong emphasis on using the skillsets and varied experience you already possess to make you a stronger leader. THIS COURSE IS APPROPRIATE FOR FIRST-YEAR STUDENTS. 4 credits. Offered yearly. Levels: Undergraduate

• THEA 306 - World Dramatic Literature

  This course looks at plays from around the world as literature, using a practical theatrical lens. We will explore genre, style, conflict, plot structure, world-building, character development, language, and form, but all in an attempt to understand how theatre artists use these tools to bring shows to life. You will: participate in discussions; read approximately one play a week; attend live performances; take open-book quizzes; create/watch video presentations; and complete writing assignments with both analytic and creative elements. Ultimately, you will deepen your understanding of theatre, as well as its role in building empathy and cross-cultural understanding. 4 credits. Pre-requisite: Any Theater class or permission of instructor.  THIS COURSE IS OFFERED FALL ONLY. Levels: Undergraduate

• THEA 307 - Int Acting II:Meisner Technque

  Students will engage in the creation, presentation and analysis of a series of prepared structured improvisations. This sequence of exercises, and their applications, are rooted in the core objectives, principles and teachings of Sanford Meisner, all of which form the basis of The Meisner Technique. The class focuses on the truth of the actor's behavior, paring away what is unnecessary, helping the actor achieve an un-self-conscious revelation of their inner life, responding moment-to-moment off of their partner and strengthening their imagination. Exercises are prepared outside of class. The course includes reading and writing assignments. Prerequisite: THEA 308. Repeatable.  Offerings Vary by Semester. 4 credits. Levels: Undergraduate

• THEA 308 - Intrmed Acting: Scene Study I

  For students who wish to continue the study of acting in greater depth, this acting workshop approaches scene and monologue work in an organic way based on the principles of Stanislavski. Students will deepen their awareness of the acting techniques and concepts originally learned in THEA 207 or 208, and learn new psychophysical methods to explore scene work. Assignments will involve creative responses that will deepen the actor’s investigation of presence, partner, circumstance and action. Outside of class rehearsals & two to three scene presentations required. Repeatable. Prerequisite: THEA 207 or 208.  Offered in Fall and Spring Semesters. 4 credits. Levels: Undergraduate

• THEA 310 - Actor Training: Body Work

   An introduction to movement training for the performing artist that focuses on physical communication through physical action.  Students investigate “self-use” in areas of breathing, alignment, and body language in order to recognize and eliminate unnecessary tension and habitual physical patterns, and thereby free themselves to respond creatively.  Students explore the principles of various physical theatre techniques, as well as the foundations of movement:  time, space, energy and effort as they inspire movement through creative impulse.  Prerequisite:  THEA 207 or THEA 208 or consent of instructor.  Repeatable. Offerings Vary By Semester.  4 credits Levels: Undergraduate

• THEA 319 - Voice Lessons Intermediate

  This course will provide the student with private vocal (singing) instruction. Focus will be on consistent and healthy vocal technique as it applies to the singer of musical theatre. Restriction: By audition only. It is recommended that students enroll in THEA 119: Musical Theatre Singing before taking THEA 319: Voice Lessons.Offered regularly. 1 credit. Levels: Undergraduate

• THEA 320 - Dance - Drama Styles in India

  Various dance styles are widely practiced and celebrated as part of the cultural heritage of India. In this course, students will be introduced to the most important and distinct Indian classical dance styles, such as Bharatha Natyam, Kathak, Kathakali, Manipuri, Kuchipudi, Odissi, etc. The students will learn the history and theories behind these complex dance traditions while considering the phases of growth, decay, and renewal of classical art forms over time. This course is appropriate for students with no background in Indian culture and students who already have familiarity with the region and are seeking better understanding of Asian cultural heritages. Restriction: no freshman. Offered regularly. 4 credits. Levels: Undergraduate

• THEA 323 - Dance Technique II: Tap

  Intermediate/advanced tap work. Focuses on tempo and rhythm changes, speed and clarity of sounds and varying tap-dance styles. Meets four times per week. Attendance mandatory. Prerequisite: THEA 228 or consent of instructor. Repeatable. 2 credits Levels: Undergraduate

• THEA 325 - Dance Technique II: Ballet

  Level II Ballet is a continuation of level I with emphasis on placement and musicality. Further developing the technique by the introduction of combinations in adagio, petit allegro, and the grande allegro. Meets four times per week. Attendance mandatory. Prerequisite: THEA 225 or permission of instructor. Repeatable. 4 credits Levels: Undergraduate

• THEA 326 - Dance Technique II: Jazz

  Second level of jazz to further student's technique in jazz dance. Students will concentrate on learning the theory and practice of the Luigi Dance Technique. This class will give the students the tools to later register for a teacher certification course in Luigi technique. Prerequisite: THEA 226 or consent of instructor. Students should have previous experience in jazz dance. Repeatable. 4 credits. Levels: Undergraduate

• THEA 328 - Dance Technique II: Tap

  Intermediate/advanced tap technique, terminology, rhythm and Tap history. Focuses on musicality, tempo and rhythm changes, speed and clarity of sounds, and varying tap-dance styles on stage and in other modern settings such as concerts, television, and film. The class format will include active physical learning of dance movements and discussion of assigned viewings/readings relating to such topics as the history, notation, vocabulary, and the notable dancers/choreographers of tap dance. Repeatable. Prerequisite: THEA 223 or 228 or consent of instructor. 4 credits Levels: Undergraduate

• THEA 329 - Advanced African Dance

  Dance is one of the oldest art forms in Africa. This course expands on intro class in African dance traditions from Ghana. It explores the meaning, values and various contexts in which dance is performed among Ghanaian societies. Advanced class offers more in depth study of various movements, gestures and expressions as a significant means of communicating ideas and enforcing social bonds, as well as learning new songs that accompany the dances to deepen understanding of the interrelatedness of holistic African and Ghanaian music/dance cultures. 4 credits. Prerequisite: THEA 229. Offered fall and spring semesters. Levels: Undergraduate

• THEA 331 - Dances of South Asia

  This class will incorporate an exploration of the fundamentals of traditional South Asian dance with a comparative approach that enables students to develop an understanding of cultural differences between dance styles in South Asia and the West. Students will be introduced to various ways of presenting and performing South Asian dancing genres, including not only traditional formats, but also in modern settings. The class format will be divided equally between active physical learning of dance movements and discussion of assigned readings relating to such topics as dance-related history, costumes, artists, and art movements; dance as a marker of relationships within and among different cultures; and aspects of dance fusion between South Asia and the West. Offered fall and spring. 4 credits. Levels: Undergraduate

• THEA 347 - Drafting for Theatre

  An introduction to the principles and practices related to drafting for the theatre and as applied to the greater entertainment industry. This course will focus specifically on an introduction to AutoCAD drafting software. There is an additional $40 fee associated with this course. This course is restricted to Majors/Minors or permission of instructor. 4 credits Levels: Undergraduate

• THEA 359 - Directing I

  This course examines the director’s creative process in translating a dramatic text onto the stage and ends with students directing a fully staged scene from a play of their choice. We will explore how directors locate the deep “why” behind their work, and how that translates into every element of production. The class will explore how directors play and communicate with actors to collaboratively craft a scene. Students will apply fundamental directing skills through a progression of stage compositions, silent and neutral scenes, as well as in class scene work and rehearsals. Outside of class rehearsals, readings and project work are required for this course. Prerequisites: THEA 308 and 310. Repeatable. Offerings Vary by Semester. 4 credits.  Levels: Undergraduate

• THEA 419 - Voice Lessons Advanced

  This course will provide the student with private vocal (singing) instruction. Focus will be on consistent and healthy vocal technique as it applies to the singer of musical theatre. This class will build on skills learned in THEA 119 and THEA 319, expand the range of styles and the repertoire into more difficult pieces. Prerequisite: THEA 319. By audition only. Offered regularly. 1 credit. Levels: Undergraduate

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For Special Topics courses, course numbers and class descriptions change each semester and are not displayed in Course Scheduler.

Click here for descriptions of special topic courses.

287M Live Event Planning/Management	CRN: 31755
289A Spectate, Immerse, Participate	CRN: 31292
289G Afro-Çaribbean Dance and Movement	CRN: 32625
386D Vocal Coaching	CRN: 34336
387A Costume Design II	CRN: 32666
387B Beijing Opera Makeup: Lines	CRN: 22359
287C Beijing Opera Combat: Spear	CRN: 22363
387D Actors For Directing	CRN: 35069
387S Stage Management Lab (01)	CRN: 23878
389A Dance,Power, and Identity (01)	CRN: 33330
389C Modern 2: Lopez Dance Technique	CRN:33412
389G Broadway Marketing and PR (01)	CRN: 32771
389H Acting Shakespeare	CRN: 20764
389J Dance Technique 2: Comtemporary/Lyrical	CRN: 29686
389Q Entertainment, Communications and Relations	CRN: 10274
389W Theate and Dance in East Asia	CRN: 35187
486D Vocal Coaching	CRN: 34335
487C Adv. Lighting Design Studio (01)	CRN: 33376
487J Adv. Scenic Design Studio (01)	CRN: 33373
487P Advanced Costume Design (01)	CRN: 32943
489B Varieties of the Comic	CRN: 35243
489Q Adv. Entertainment Marketing (01)	CRN: 10275

First year students may choose from a variety of courses offered each semester such as intro lecture courses, acting, dance, and design and technical theatre.  

CLICK HERE FOR COURSES RECOMMENDED FOR FIRST YEAR STUDENTS