Musical Theatre

The study of music from Medieval Period to 1700. Students will be expected to compose and analyze music appropriate to the styles studied within the context of the era under investigation. Music notation software will be used to complete the requirements of this class; training on this software will be embedded in the class.

Beginning class piano for commercial music majors. Areas of study will include: (1) Aural transcription and dictation, (2) Scales and modes, (3) Harmonization by sight and ear; (4) Major and minor chord progressing, (5) Development of reading skills, and (6) Improvisation.

Required of all dramatic arts majors and minors for six (6) semesters. To receive a passing grade, students are to participate in 20 hours of some aspect of production work for each of the productions planned during the six semesters that are chosen by the student. Graded S/U. Note: No credit is given and no tuition is charged.

An introductory workshop course focusing on beginning acting techniques and scene study. Students will explore the actors' instrument and the use of space, relaxation, concentration, imagination, movement, and how to pursue an objective through physical and psychological actions in order to create a character.

An introductory examination of the directorial process beginning with textual analysis of dramatic action and covering such areas as production unity, stage movement and business, motivational analysis, and pictorial composition. Other areas of emphasis include a brief overview of directing history, types of directing theory and style, planning and rehearsal techniques, and the relationship of the director to other theatre artists. Student work includes selected scene work and directing projects prepared for class presentation culminating in a final scene presentation.

Provides supervised participation and instruction in various aspects of theatre. Open to all students with the consent of the instructor. Dramatic Arts majors are required to take this one-hour practicum in three of the following areas: (A) Acting, (B) Stage Management, (C) Scenery and Props, (D) Costumes and Make-up, (E) Lighting and Sound, (F) Directing. Graded S/U.

Trains the actor to communicate expressively with the body. The work includes exploration of space, energy, dynamics, rhythm, and sensory response. Actors develop techniques to transform their physical and emotional energy into dramatic action and character development.

Focuses specifically on the basics of tap and jazz dancing as related to training for the actor. It is recommended that students take: COM 3430 as a foundation for the course.

A performance class in which students prepare a variety of operatic and musical theatre scenes. Attention will be given to movement, diction, acting, singing, and vocal interpretation. The class will culminate in a public staged performance.