Theatre

The Theatre program at Willamette University offers a Theatre major with the flexibility to craft an individual emphasis. A foundational theatre core allows students to build their own emphases and pursue coursework in their area of interest.

A faculty, staff and guest artists with extensive academic and professional experience teach a wide-ranging curriculum, providing the student with a rich variety of perspectives from which to learn. Theatre is a vital part of the liberal arts experience at the University through the public performances of three to four plays and a dance concert per year, as well as student-created projects and a wide array of classes available to majors and non-majors alike.

Students majoring in Theatre are provided with a range of experiences within all areas of the theatre: acting, directing, stagecraft, costume construction, design, dramaturgy, lighting, voice, movement, theatre history, and dramatic literature. It is the department's intent to train Theatre majors in all aspects of the discipline during their four years at Willamette, thereby creating a well-rounded theatre artist. Just as the liberal arts environment provides the student with insight into and an understanding of a variety of subjects, the Theatre department strives to create an environment conducive to the individual growth of the student within the context of the most collaborative of the arts disciplines.

The time spent in a university is valuable not only for the particular instruction a student receives; it also serves as a time of great personal growth and heightened self-awareness. The theatre department supports this growth in ways both tangible and intangible. The great amount of work done in the department in classes and with mainstage productions demands that the students budget and prioritize their time and energy. Truly, there is no class or subject irrelevant to the study of theatre, and the department's outlook reflects this respect for our place as an integral and vital part of the College of Arts & Sciences. Students are expected to develop a high level of self-discipline in the theatre department. Pride of commitment to the work and the willingness to take on the responsibility that comes with being part of an ensemble are tangible rewards that students will carry with them long after graduation. Also, classes offered through the theatre department meet several General Education (Modes of Inquiry) requirements.

In addition to the permanent faculty, there is a guest artist program, providing students the opportunity to learn from and work closely with theatre artists currently working in the profession. Two or three guest artists each year, in the capacity of actors, directors, designers or choreographers, are invited to take up residency for the duration of a production. During that six week period, the guest artists are also involved in the teaching of classes and workshops. Members of the Theatre faculty approach their work with a high level of professionalism and the expectation that the type of student Willamette University attracts will embrace the demanding yet rewarding opportunities that lie ahead, and rise to meet and learn from those myriad challenges.

Mainstage productions are selected with care to provide the students with experience in a wide range of theatrical styles. From the Greeks to Shakespeare to the most recent works by contemporary playwrights, the emphasis is on producing exciting interpretations of well-written texts. The department reaches out to the school community through matinee performances offered specifically for high school audiences. The Theatre at Willamette is a vibrant, exciting, challenging department filled with faculty and students striving to continue the journey of discovery and interaction with our fellow humans that leads to greater understanding of ourselves, our neighbors and our world.

The Willamette Playhouse is the home of Willamette Theatre classes, workshops and productions. The building, newly renovated and re-opened in 2010, includes a movement studio, directing and lighting studio, acting studio, costume shop, prop storage, makeup room, scene shop, light and sound production facilities, dressing rooms, classrooms, and faculty offices. There are two performance areas: the mainstage black box theatre, which offers flexible seating of up to 250, and a small laboratory theatre, which features flexible seating of up to 50.

Requirements for the Theatre Major

Students majoring in Theatre are required to take the Core Courses (16 semester hours) plus 24-30 additional semester hours within the THTR designation).

Core courses

  • THTR 140 Acting I (4)
  • THTR 150 Voice for the Stage (2)
  • THTR 155 Stagecraft I (4)
  • THTR 380 Applied Research (4)
  • Two credits of a movement-based course, as approved by advisor (2)

Acting Emphasis (30 additional semester hours; 46 semester hours total)

  • THTR 141 Acting II (4)
  • THTR 151 Voice and Speech (2)
  • THTR 340 Acting Studio I (4)
  • THTR 341 Acting Studio II (4)
  • Eight additional semester hours in performance-based disciplines, as approved by advisor (8)
  • Eight additional semester hours in THTR (8)

Design and Technology Emphasis (28 additional semester hours; 44 semester hours total)

  • THTR 251 Computer Assisted Design (4)
  • Eight semester hours in two different theatre design courses (8)
  • Eight semester hours working in Design/Assistant Design/Assistant Technical Director for Theatre productions (8) 
    • Assistant Tech. Direct two productions if Tech focus
    • Assistant Design two productions if Design focus
    • Eight additional semester hours in technology/design, as approved by advisor (8)

Stage Management Emphasis (24 additional semester hours; 40 semester hours total)

Directing Emphasis (30 additional semester hours; 46 semester hours total)

  • THTR 318W Performance in the 20th Century (4)
  • THTR 379 Directing I (4)
  • Advanced Topics course (as approved by advisor) (2)
  • Acting Studio I (4) or Acting Studio II (4)
  • Eight additional semester hours in Design (from THTR 233, THTR 355, or THTR 356) (8)
  • Assistant Direct two productions (8)

Requirements for the Theatre Minor (20 semester hours)

  • THTR 140 Acting I (4)
  • THTR 150 Voice for the Stage (2)
  • THTR 155 Stagecraft I (4)
  • THTR 380 Applied Research (4)
  • Two credits of a movement-based course, as approved by advisor (2)
  • Four credits of design (4)

Production Credit Requirements for the Theatre Major 

Majors, minors, and theatre scholarship holders are required to earn credits for significant involvements within the Theatre Department production program prior to graduation. 

For students in residence at Willamette University for four full years, it is expected that those students will earn 12 practicum roles, of which 6 are full (4.0) credit or "above the bar" involvements (24 credits). Students must have completed at least 8 practicum roles prior to graduation. 

For transfer students, it is expected that those students will earn 6 practicum roles, of which 3 are full (4.0) credit or "above the bar" involvements. Students must have completed at least 3 practicum roles prior to graduation. Transfer students should work with their transfer advisor to find transfer production substitutions, if necessary. 

For Theatre minors, it is expected that 6 practicum roles are earned, of which 3 are full (4.0) credit or “above the bar.” Minor students must have completed at least 3 practicum roles prior to graduation. 

Theatre Capstone 

The Theatre Capstone consists of three parts: (1) Theatre major will have senior standing and be within two semesters of graduation; (2) Theatre major will have completed all production credits; and (3) Theatre major will have successfully completed a departmental portfolio review and/or departmental audition within two semesters prior to graduation. 

 

Indicators of Achievement

Student Learning Outcomes for the Theatre Major

  1. Theatre students will demonstrate skills in the in-depth analysis of dominant and secondary themes in dramatic literature through the reading and written/verbal analysis of the works of a variety of key playwrights from the 5th century BC to the beginning of the 21st century
  2. Theatre students will demonstrate knowledge of the major presentational performance & movement styles demonstrated in “period” productions from ancient times to the beginning of the 21st century through both class and public performance
  3. Theatre students will demonstrate knowledge of the major presentational performance styles and issues in 20th century and contemporary performance through both class and public performance
  4. Acting/directing students will demonstrate an understanding of individual character motivations & action choices through the public presentation of effectively interactive performance dynamics between characters
  5. Theatre students will demonstrate responsible and effective critical response skills through the presentation of both written and verbal critiques of the performance and design work of others as well as themselves
  6. Theatre students will exhibit a consistent respect for and commitment to the profession and to fellow artists by arriving on time and being appropriately prepared for rehearsal sessions, performances, design conferences and work calls
  7. Theatre students will actively display a commitment to ongoing development as an artist beyond graduation and the protected environment of the classroom studio by assembling a professional resume, a headshot, a portfolio of accomplished performance experiences, & the public performance of a minimum of four scenes representing a broad range of performances periods and styles plus a minimum of four appropriately memorized and staged audition selections which will be performed for an audience as a capstone presentation. Design students will prepare a professional resume and a portfolio of accomplished work, plus two (2) three dimensional renderings (set, costume, lighting: models, cloth renderings, sound tracks, lighting renderings) with supporting materials (plans, elevations, patterns, collages, cue sheets, cut sheets, source materials, etc) in main area of focus and two (2-3) additional production materials (3D renderings and support materials) in other areas of design interest

Faculty

Dance Faculty

Emeritus

Staff


Course Listings

THTR 010X Theatre Practicum (1-4)

Any student who is making a significant contribution (either technical or performance) to a faculty-directed play or faculty supervised project which is being presented in the department's production season, may apply to receive credit for this activity. The application must be requested during the production schedule (not after) and will be evaluated by the faculty member involved who will determine the amount of credit to be granted. Creating in the Arts.

  • General Education Requirement Fulfillment: Arts & Humanities; World Engagement: CV
  • Prerequisite: Consent of instructor
  • Offering: Every semester
  • Instructor: Staff

THTR 011X Theatre Practicum - Atypical Performance (2-4)

Any student who is making a significant contribution (either technical or performance) to an independent, atypical performance or production not covered by the standing Theatre Practicum may apply to receive credit for this activity. The project can be faculty or student directed or coordinated but it must involve significant faculty supervision. This application must be submitted to the appropriate faculty member prior to the production schedule (not after) and will be evaluated by the faculty member involved who will determine the amount of credit to be granted.

  • General Education Requirement Fulfillment: Arts & Humanities; World Engagement: CV
  • Prerequisite: Consent of instructor
  • Offering: Every semester
  • Instructor: Staff

THTR 020X Dance Practicum (1-4)

This practicum course places emphasis on deepening and broadening understanding of the various elements associated with dance performance and concert production. Attention is given to theatrical and creative elements needed to support dance presentations and productions, including but not exclusive to performance, choreography, technology, and design.

  • General Education Requirement Fulfillment: Arts & Humanities
  • Prerequisite: Fall audition
  • Offering: Annually
  • Instructor: Staff

THTR 110 Introduction to Theatre: The Act of Creativity (4)

An introductory class geared for non-majors or those with little or no theatre experience. We will explore theatre’s principles, goals, physical resources and essential working processes through creative work. Activities are designed to focus on the fundamental precepts of theatre, looking at acting, design, writing, directing, and audience. The class will also focus on the act of creating and performance, writing and discussion, and will involve attendance at a few outside theatre events, both on and off campus. No text required. Participation an absolute necessity.

  • General Education Requirement Fulfillment: Arts & Humanities; World Engagement: CV
  • Offering: Annually
  • Instructor: Staff

THTR 140 Acting I (4)

Course work in fundamental techniques of acting. The students will do intensive personal and social investigation through exercises in movement, voice training and improvisation as methods of making contact with themselves and others as they explore an actor's training and ensemble work.

  • General Education Requirement Fulfillment: Arts & Humanities; World Engagement: CV
  • Corequisite: THTR 150
  • Offering: Fall
  • Instructor: Coromel

THTR 141 Acting II (4)

Study of major realistic/naturalistic acting theory. In-depth exploration of play and character analysis, scene and monologue work.

  • General Education Requirement Fulfillment: Arts & Humanities; World Engagement: CV
  • Prerequisite: THTR 140
  • Offering: Spring
  • Instructor: Coromel

THTR 145 Introduction to Acting (4)

The objective of this course is to provide a basic understanding of the art of acting through firsthand experience. The course is meant to increase student awareness of his/her potential through exercises; introduce students to the acting method of psychological realism; and provide students with experience and confidence to perform in front of others.

  • General Education Requirement Fulfillment: Arts & Humanities
  • Offering: Fall
  • Instructor: Staff

THTR 150 Voice for the Stage (2)

This course is an introduction to the voice for the stage. Students will learn how their voice works, through a variety of exercises, both technically and imaginatively. Emphasis is on self-awareness exercises, relaxation techniques, physical/vocal stretches and the development of a personal warm-up.

  • General Education Requirement Fulfillment: Arts & Humanities
  • Corequisite: THTR 140
  • Offering: Fall
  • Instructor: Coromel

THTR 151 Voice and Speech (2)

A course aimed at (1) improving natural, clear, unaffected speech and (2) eliminating negative habits and regional accents: and an introduction to the International Phonetic Alphabet for the purposes of exploring stage dialect.

  • General Education Requirement Fulfillment: Arts & Humanities
  • Prerequisite: THTR 140, THTR 150
  • Corequisite: THTR 141
  • Offering: Spring
  • Instructor: Coromel

THTR 155 Stagecraft I (4)

An introduction to the design process of theatre production. This course provides students with the basic knowledge and skills used in backstage production support. Areas of study include welding, carpentry, drafting, scenic and lighting design. Required of all theatre majors, but also intended for the interested non-major who would like to explore the performing arts from a technical perspective. This course requires the student to complete 3 lab hours per week in the Scenic Studio.

  • General Education Requirement Fulfillment: Arts & Humanities; World Engagement: CV
  • Offering: Annually
  • Instructor: Staff

THTR 157 Introduction to Design for the Stage: Sculpting and Clothing the Theatrical Experience (4)

An introductory, practical design course geared predominantly for non-majors or those with little or no theatre experience. In creating designs for two plays, the class will explore the basic ideas and techniques of designing for the stage. Particular attention will be paid to the close reading of a script, the development of an appropriate theatrical image and concept, and understanding how each of the various design areas contribute and support each other in creating a seamless, unified whole that supports the staging of the script.

  • General Education Requirement Fulfillment: Arts & Humanities; World Engagement: CV
  • Offering: Annually
  • Instructor: Staff

THTR 165 Stagecraft II (2)

Analysis and detailed application of the principles introduced in Stagecraft I. The course will provide the comprehensive knowledge that will prepare students to plan and direct the technical aspects of backstage production.

  • General Education Requirement Fulfillment: Arts & Humanities
  • Prerequisite: THTR 155
  • Offering: Fall
  • Instructor: Staff

THTR 175 Introduction to Dance Technique (2)

This movement-based introductory course is designed for students with little or no previous dance experience who wish to develop a basic understanding of the principles and histories of various dance techniques through physical exploration and discussion. Dance forms explored in this course may include ballet, jazz, hip-hop, modern, contemporary, improvisation, social dance, and world dances.

  • General Education Requirement Fulfillment: Arts & Humanities; World Engagement: CV
  • Offering: Fall
  • Instructor: Staff

THTR 181 Ballet I (2)

In this movement-based course, students are introduced to the historical significances and foundational principles of ballet technique. This course aims to help students develop an appreciation for ballet as an art form and physical practice, and is designed for students with little or no previous dance experience.

  • General Education Requirement Fulfillment: Arts & Humanities
  • Offering: Every Semester
  • Instructor: Staff

THTR 182 Contemporary Dance I (2)

In this movement-based course, students are introduced to the foundational principles and cultural significances of contemporary dance techniques from various historical and theoretical perspectives. This course aims to help students develop an appreciation for contemporary dance as an artistic expression and physical practice, and is designed for students with little or no previous dance experience.

  • General Education Requirement Fulfillment: Arts & Humanities
  • Offering: Annually
  • Instructor: Staff

THTR 187 Introduction to Dance Partnering (2)

In this movement-based course, students are introduced to the fundamental principles and forms of partner dance technique. This course aims to help students develop an appreciation of dance partnering as a physical and social practice, and is designed for students with little or no previous dance experience. Classes are focused on developing spatial awareness, rhythmic responsiveness, self-expression, and kinesthetic awareness. Partner dance forms explored in this course may include swing, salsa, tango, blues, fusion, contact improvisation, and contemporary dance partnering technique.

  • General Education Requirement Fulfillment: Arts & Humanities
  • Offering: Spring semester
  • Instructor: Morrison

THTR 199 Topics in Theatre (1-4)

A semester-long study of topics in Theatre. Topics and emphases will vary according to the instructor. This course may be repeated for credit with different topics. See the New and Topics Courses page on the Registrar’s webpage for descriptions and applicability to majors/minors in other departments.

  • General Education Requirement Fulfillment: Topic dependent
  • Prerequisite: Topic dependent
  • Offering: Occasionally
  • Professor: Staff

THTR 212 Global Fashion History (4)

This course examines the wearing of clothes throughout history, the customs around wearing clothes, and the way that global fashion change has been impacted by a myriad of influences. By focusing on the specifics of fashion change over time we will uncover not only the obvious sartorial influences on our current lives, but also the lingering effects of what has come before including social and political ramifications, gender and economics, and issues of psychology, sexuality, and race. In addition to the study of visual images, the reading of current costume history scholarship will allow students to discuss topically relevant issues in and outside the classroom setting.

  • General Education Requirement Fulfillment: Arts & Humanities; World Engagement: CV
  • Offering: Alternate years
  • Instructor: Brewer-Wallin

THTR 213 Intro & Appreciation to Dance Studies (4)

This introductory survey course examines the ways in which dance functions as human communication, artistic expression, cultural tradition, and embodied knowledge. Students will develop an understanding of how dance performs social and cultural knowledge, and how dance artists and scholars respond to historical events and cultural situations. Targeted to 1st and 2nd year students, this experiential-lecture course addresses issues of identity, politics, power, and ethics through both physical movement exploration, analysis of masterworks from notable dance artists, interdisciplinary projects, and ethnographic research methods. Topics explored in this course will mostly relate to U.S. and Western dance forms; however, dance practices, forms, and traditions of other regions may be included.

  • General Education Requirement Fulfillment: Arts & Humanities
  • Offering: Alternate Years
  • Instructor: Staff

THTR 217W Performance Historiography (4)

Examines how histories of theatrical performance are constructed and used in theatrical production. Special attention paid to how dramatic text, cultural values, political structures, and performance spaces and styles interact to create performance phenomena from shamanistic times through the 18th century.

  • General Education Requirement Fulfillment: Writing-centered; Arts & Humanities; World Engagement: CV
  • Offering: Annually
  • Instructor: Cole

THTR 219 Theatre Literature and History: 1850 to present (4)

Study of dramatic traditions from the mid-19th century to the present day. Special attention to how dramatic text, cultural values, political structures, and performance spaces and styles interact to create performance phenomena from the mid-nineteenth century to the present day.

  • General Education Requirement Fulfillment: Arts & Humanities; World Engagement: CV
  • Offering: Annually
  • Instructor: Cole

THTR 233 Costume Design (4)

This course explores dramatic text with regard to costume for character and gives students a hands-on understanding and appreciation for process in creative expression. We will begin with the basic elements of design, learn how to manipulate those elements, apply that knowledge by visually interpreting a text and communicating your ideas clearly to others, via drawings and visual images. Students read and analyze a handful of plays that examine powerful human interaction across time and culture.

  • General Education Requirement Fulfillment: Arts & Humanities; World Engagement: CV
  • Offering: Annually
  • Instructor: Brewer-Wallin

THTR 234 Choreography I (2)

This course offers an introduction to the principles of choreographic composition, analysis, and design. In this experiential course, various methods of movement creation and organization will be explored through dance making and analyzation.

  • General Education Requirement Fulfillment: Arts & Humanities
  • Offering: Alternate Years
  • Instructor: Staff

THTR 240 Stage Makeup (2)

This course will help students learn the basics of character makeup application and design. We will begin with the basic elements of design, learn how to manipulate those elements, and apply that knowledge through hands-on application and careful visual research; a basic understanding of professional makeup application will be achieved. Purchase of makeup kit is required for practical application of the techniques studied.

  • General Education Requirement Fulfillment: Arts & Humanities
  • Offering: Fall
  • Instructor: Brewer-Wallin

THTR 250 Sound Design for Stage and Screen (4)

Sound Design for the Stage and Screen offers students an opportunity to explore concepts, aesthetics, and technologies related to designing sound for theatre, online media, television, and film. Students will create a series of portfolio pieces as they work towards full length plays and screen events.

  • General Education Requirement Fulfillment: Arts & Humanities
  • Offering: Alternate springs
  • Instructor: Steck

THTR 251 Introduction to Computer Aided Design/Drafting (4)

This course is intended to introduce the student to Computer Aided Design (CAD). This course will teach basic and advanced 2-D drawing and editing, allowing the student to draw, dimension, and plot their work. This course also includes an introduction to 3-D drafting techniques. We will be using AutoCAD and Vectorworks for our work environments. The fundamentals of CAD will be covered with a focus on their use in the theatrical world, but with broader applications in environmental, engineering, and other fields.

  • General Education Requirement Fulfillment: Arts & Humanities
  • Offering: Alternate years
  • Instructor: Staff

THTR 260 Stage Combat (4)

Stage Combat is a course designed to introduce students to the fundamentals of stage combat. Students will explore basic principles of movement, safety practices, and will learn the history and application of three Western stage combat forms: unarmed combat and two others drawn from the following list: rapier and dagger, single sword, broadsword, or quarterstaff.

  • General Education Requirement Fulfillment: Arts & Humanities
  • Prerequisite: THTR 140, THTR 145
  • Offering: Alternate years
  • Instructor: Cole

THTR 270 Introduction to Arts Management (4)

In this course the students will experience an overview of Arts Management for both profit and not-for-profit organizations. Topics covered include art and culture in community, strategic planning, fundraising, financial and accounting principles, personnel management, programming, marketing, and arts education. The class experience involves lectures, discussions with guest speakers, and student presentations.

  • General Education Requirement Fulfillment: Arts & Humanities; World Engagement; CV
  • Offering: Alternate years, offered in the Spring
  • Instructor: Lemoi

THTR 282 Contemporary Dance II (2)

This is an intermediate level movement-based course that builds upon the principles and techniques gained through THTR 182 (Contemporary Dance I) or previous movement experience. Progressive knowledge and proficiency of contemporary dance technique will be pursued. This course is designed for students with previous dance experience.

  • General Education Requirement Fulfillment: Arts & Humanities
  • Prerequisite: Previous modern dance training
  • Offering: Alternate Years
  • Instructor: Staff

THTR 284 Ballet II (2)

This is an intermediate level ballet course that builds upon the principles, terminology, and techniques gained through Ballet I or previous ballet experience. Progressive knowledge and proficiency of ballet techniques will be pursued through this course. This course is designed for students with previous ballet experience.

  • General Education Requirement Fulfillment: Arts & Humanities
  • Prerequisite: Previous ballet training
  • Offering: Spring
  • Instructor: Staff

THTR 299 Topics in Theatre (1-4)

A semester-long study of topics in Theatre. Topics and emphases will vary according to the instructor. This course may be repeated for credit with different topics. See the New and Topics Courses page on the Registrar’s webpage for descriptions and applicability to majors/minors in other departments.

  • General Education Requirement Fulfillment: Topic dependent
  • Prerequisite: Topic dependent
  • Offering: Occasionally
  • Professor: Staff

THTR 318W Theatre and Culture (4)

Study of major movements in the theatre as they embody significant new approaches to the writing and staging of plays and performance events, and express change in social values and intellectual discourse.

  • General Education Requirement Fulfillment: Writing-centered; Arts & Humanities; World Engagement: CV
  • Offering: Alternate Years
  • Instructor: Cole

THTR 320W Playwriting Workshop (4)

This course focuses on crafting short plays by learning about plot, theme, character, dialogue, and theatricality in a theatrical space.

  • General Education Requirement Fulfillment: Writing-centered; Art & Humanities
  • Prerequisite: ENGL 135
  • Offering: Annually
  • Instructor: Staff

THTR 340 Acting Studio I (4)

Advanced actor training designed to allow individual in-depth exploration of the realistic acting process, play and character analysis and ensemble work, through the study of the works of Shaw, Ibsen, Chekhov, Miller, Williams and contemporary playwrights. Intended for upper-division theatre majors. May be repeated once for credit.

  • General Education Requirement Fulfillment: Arts & Humanities; World Engagement: CV
  • Prerequisite: THTR 140, THTR 141, THTR 150, and THTR 151 (may be taken concurrently)
  • Offering: Fall
  • Instructor: Coromel

THTR 341 Acting Studio II (4)

Advanced actor training designed to allow individual in-depth exploration of style through the study of the works of Shakespeare and other Elizabethan/Jacobean dramatists. Intended for upper-division theatre majors. May be repeated once for credit.

  • General Education Requirement Fulfillment: Arts & Humanities; World Engagement: CV
  • Prerequisite: THTR 140, THTR 141, THTR 150, and THTR 151 (may be taken concurrently)
  • Offering: Spring
  • Instructor: Coromel

THTR 355 Scenic Design for the Entertainment Industry (4)

This course shows the process of developing an aesthetic physical environment for the entertainment industry taking into consideration design elements such as line, shape, and texture. This includes theatre, television/film, and museum displays. It will also provide hands-on opportunities to experiment with design elements, sketching, model building, and communication tools such as computer drafting and 3D printing.

  • General Education Requirement Fulfillment: Arts & Humanities; World Engagement: CV
  • Offering: Annually
  • Instructor: Staff

THTR 356 Lighting design for Entertainment and Other Spaces (4)

An exploration of lighting design and its application for live performance, video, museums, and other architecture. Topics include: the principles and theory of light and color, the elements of design, lighting instruments and controls, regulations and technical terminology, standards and formats for paperwork. The classroom experience involves hands-on lighting exercises in live and video recorded performances.  

  • General Education Requirement Fulfillment: Arts & Humanities; World Engagement: CV
  • Offering: Alternate Fall
  • Instructor: Steck

THTR 357 Design/Production Studio I (4)

Advanced course allowing individual in-depth exploration of various aspects of the theatrical design process. Incorporates through both theoretical and practical projects: text and performance analysis, development of scenic, costume and/or lighting concepts, problems of technical execution.

  • General Education Requirement Fulfillment: Arts & Humanities
  • Prerequisite: THTR 233, THTR 355, THTR 356, OR equivalent.
  • Offering: Spring
  • Instructor: Brewer-Wallin, Steck

THTR 358 Design/Production Studio II (4)

Advanced design projects incorporating the skills developed in Design Studio I, with special emphasis on production period and style. The class will include production design work and assignments geared toward portfolio presentation.

  • General Education Requirement Fulfillment: Arts & Humanities
  • Prerequisite: THTR 233, THTR 355, THTR 356, OR Equivalent.
  • Offering: Alternate Years
  • Instructor: Brewer-Wallin, Steck

THTR 379 Directing I (4)

Fundamental historical, theoretical and practical aspects of play direction. Analysis of directorial approaches, scripts and conditions of presentation in various performance circumstances. Practical application of script analysis and rehearsal techniques.


THTR 380 Applied Research (4)

This course provides students the opportunity to learn key concepts and methodologies for praxis-based research in all facets of theatrical production, through a variety of applied projects.

  • General Education Requirement Fulfillment: Arts & Humanities
  • Offering: Annually
  • Instructor: Cole, Steck

THTR 399 Topics in Theatre (1-4)

A semester-long study of topics in Theatre. Topics and emphases will vary according to the instructor. This course may be repeated for credit with different topics. See the New and Topics Courses page on the Registrar’s webpage for descriptions and applicability to majors/minors in other departments.

  • General Education Requirement Fulfillment: Topic dependent
  • Prerequisite: Topic dependent
  • Offering: Occasionally
  • Professor: Staff

THTR 429 Topics in Theatre (1-4)

A semester-long study of topics in Theatre. Topics and emphases will vary according to the instructor. This course may be repeated for credit with different topics. See the New and Topics Courses page on the Registrar’s webpage for descriptions and applicability to majors/minors in other departments.

  • General Education Requirement Fulfillment: Topic dependent
  • Prerequisite: Topic dependent
  • Offering: Occasionally
  • Professor: Staff

THTR 430 Special Topics in Performance Studies (4)

This course provides the flexibility to offer topics of special interest in the various areas of theatre studies. Among the courses that will be offered are: Cultural Diversity in the American Theatre; The History, Function and Role of the Dramaturg; Metatheatre — Its Social, Political and Cultural Implications; Theatre Design in the 20th Century. May be repeated once for credit.

  • General Education Requirement Fulfillment: Arts & Humanities
  • Offering: On demand
  • Instructor: Staff

THTR 441 Special Topics in Dance (4)

Special Topics in Dance is designed to allow students the opportunity to undertake study of specific topics in dance which are not offered in the regular curriculum.

  • General Education Requirement Fulfillment: Arts & Humanities
  • Offering: Annually
  • Instructor: Staff

THTR 444 Arts Management (4)

Study of the business and legal aspects of arts activity in America's establishment and nonestablishment art areas. Special attention to such subjects as general funding, touring, government grants and alternative careers.

  • General Education Requirement Fulfillment: Arts & Humanities
  • Offering: On demand
  • Instructor: Staff

THTR 491 Special Topics in Theatre (2 or 4)

Special Studies in Theatre is designed to allow advanced students an opportunity to undertake a study of specific topics in theatre which are not offered in the regular curriculum.

  • General Education Requirement Fulfillment: Arts & Humanities
  • Prerequisite: Consent of instructor
  • Offering: Every semester
  • Instructor: Staff

THTR 499W Senior Thesis (4)

Required for senior Theatre majors. Research, create and perform solo performance in addition to written thesis.


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