Theatre and Dance
College of Arts and Letters
Program Description
The California State University, Sacramento Department of Theatre and Dance fosters student-learning to advance critically-thinking, creative and collaborative artists. It provides a broad and thorough foundation of the history, theory, literature and the practice of theatre and dance to students who wish to pursue post graduate studies or join the profession. The Department of Theatre and Dance offers an imaginative and ambitious program of historical and contextual studies supported by studio and production work. Our mission challenges students to be independent thinkers. Our department provides a collaborative, artistic environment that reflects a richly complex and diverse global perspective complemented by national and international faculty and staff experience.
Degree Programs
Theatre
Majors in the Theatre program receive in-depth training in acting, voice, movement, audition technique, design, history, literature, criticism, multicultural theatre, musical theatre, puppetry, and film studies.
Accreditation
In addition to California State University, Sacramento's full accreditation by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, the Bachelor of Arts in Theatre is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Theatre.
Notice to Students RE: Professional Licensure and Certification
California State University programs for professions that require licensure or certification are intended to prepare the student for California licensure and certification requirements. Admission into programs for professions that require licensure and certification does not guarantee that students will obtain a license or certificate. Licensure and certification requirements are set by agencies that are not controlled by or affiliated with the California State University and licensure and certification requirements can change at any time.
The California State University has not determined whether its programs meet other states’ educational or professional requirements for licensure and certification. Students planning to pursue licensure or certification in other states are responsible for determining whether, if they complete a California State University program, they will meet their state’s requirements for licensure or certification. This disclosure is made pursuant to 34 CFR §668.43(a)(5)(v)(C).
Special Features
- Academic offerings include an excellent program of performance opportunities. Each year we offer four to six faculty-directed productions and a varied selection of additional productions including student-directed one-acts, recruitment shows, and community outreach performances. Students are also offered production assignments as stage managers, designers and technicians, all of which enhance the range of theatrical knowledge and experience.
- Included are African American and Chicano/Latino Theatre productions that make this program unique in the State University System.
- In addition to the performance and technical components, Sacramento State’s Theatre program provides organizations that encompass social, academic and professional opportunities, both on campus and in the community.
- The Theatre program participates annually in the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival (KCACTF).
Dance
Majors in the Dance program receive training in dance technique, performance, production, choreography, theory, dance history, and dance education.
The comprehensive Dance program starts with the basic principles of dance technique and refines them through choreographic and theoretic processes, culminating in the creation of full-scale concert productions. Students in the program are involved at every level of the creative process.
Special Features
- Dance majors have the opportunity to participate as members of several dance companies and organizations. Company members are involved in all aspects of producing and presenting dance, from creating and performing choreography to designing and implementing the production and promotional aspects of the concerts.
- Dance majors are given the opportunity to work with professional dance artists. Each year, at least one regional professional dance artist is in residence, and the program invites nationally acclaimed guest artists to teach master classes and choreograph.
- The Dance program participates annually in the American College Dance Association (ACDA) conference and the International Association of Blacks in Dance (IABD) conference.
Career Possibilities
Actor · Choreographer · Dancer · Director · Scenographer · Lighting Designer · Scenic Designer · Puppeteer · Theatre Manager · Critic · Announcer/Narrator · Sound/Light Technician · Scenic Artist · Propmaster · Educator (Instructor/Teacher/Professor) · Stage and Production Manager
Contact Information
Philip Flickinger, Department Chair
Drea Guianan, Academic Support Coordinator II
Shasta Hall 104
(916) 278-6368
Department of Theatre & Dance Website
Faculty
BAYNE, LORELEI
BROWN, BERNARD
BRUNSVOLD-MERCEDES, MEGAN
FELTEN, MICHELLE
FLICKINGER, PHILIP
FORBES-ERICKSON, AMY-ROSE
WILSON, MELINDA D.
How to Read Course Descriptions
DNCE 1A. Jazz Dance Level IA. 2 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Theory and practice of basic beginning jazz techniques.
Note: May be repeated for up to 4 units of credit.
DNCE 1B. Jazz Dance Level IB. 2 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Continued theory and practice of beginning jazz techniques.
Note: Does not satisfy degree requirements for major, all students welcome. May be repeated for up to 4 units of credit.
DNCE 1C. Jazz Dance Level IC. 2 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Further theory and practice of beginning jazz techniques.
Note: May be repeated for up to 4 units of credit.
DNCE 2A. Contemporary Dance Level lA. 2 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Introduction to the history and techniques of the contemporary dance and modem dance tradition through basic dance principles and aesthetics including the introduction to contemporary movement to develop and improve strength, flexibility, balance, coordination and creative expression.
Note: Does not satisfy degree requirements for major, all students welcome.
DNCE 2B. Contemporary Dance Level IB. 2 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Continues the introduction of the history and techniques of contemporary dance and the modern dance tradition through deepened study of basic dance principles and aesthetics including the continued practice of contemporary movement to continue the development and improvement of strength, flexibility, balance, coordination and creative expression.
Note: Does not satisfy degree requirements for major, all students welcome.
DNCE 2C. Contemporary Dance Level IC. 2 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Further introduction to the history and techniques of the contemporary dance and modem dance tradition through further study of basic contemporary dance principles and aesthetics including the further practice pf contemporary movement for the deepened development and improvement of strength, flexibility, balance, coordination and creative expression.
Note: Does not satisfy degree requirements for major, all students welcome.
DNCE 3A. Ballet Level lA. 2 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Introduction to the history and development of traditional ballet techniques. Students will study ballet principles and aesthetics and continue to learn basic ballet movement, vocabulary, and skills.
Note: Does not satisfy degree requirements for major, all students welcome.
DNCE 3B. Ballet Level IB. 2 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
This course provides,continued introduction to the history and development of traditional ballet techniques. Students will study ballet principles and aesthetics and continue to learn basic ballet movement, vocabulary, and skills.
Note: Does not satisfy degree requirements for major, all students welcome.
DNCE 3C. Ballet Level IC. 2 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
This course provides a further introduction to the history and development of traditional ballet techniques. Students will expand upon their earlier study of ballet principles and aesthetics and continue to learn basic ballet movement, vocabulary, and skills.
Note: Does not satisfy degree requirements for major, all students welcome.
DNCE 4A. Tap Dance Level lA. 2 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Introduction to fundamental tap dance skills including basic steps, history and vocabulary, and style development.
Note: May be repeated for up to 4 units of credit. Satisfies degree requirement, all students welcome.
DNCE 4B. Tap Dance Level IB. 2 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Continued introduction to fundamental tap dance skills including a deepened study of basic steps, history and vocabulary, and continued style development
Note: May be repeated for up to 4 units of credit. Satisfies degree requirements, all students welcome.
DNCE 4C. Tap Dance Level IC. 2 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Further introduction to fundamental tap dance skills including an expanded study of basic steps, history and vocabulary, and further style development
Note: May be repeated for up to 4 units of credit. Satisfies degree requirements, all students welcome.
DNCE 5A. Mexican Folklorico Level lA. 2 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Introduction to dances typically and traditionally performed by Mexican and Latin Americans exploring the interrelationship of dance culture to historical events, holidays, and people throughout the Americas and with opportunities to learn folk dances representative of specific regions of Mexico and Latin America.
Note: May be repeated for up to 4 units of credit. Satisfies degree requirements, all students welcome.
DNCE 5B. Mexican Folklorico Level IB. 2 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Continued introduction to dances typically and traditionally performed by Mexican and Latin Americans with deepened exploration of the interrelationship of dance culture to historical events, holidays, and people throughout the Americas and with continued study of folk dances representative of specific regions of Mexico and Latin America.
Note: May be repeated for up to 4 units of credit. Satisfies degree requirement, all students welcome.
DNCE 5C. Mexican Folklorico Dance Level IC. 2 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Further introduction to dances typically and traditionally performed by Mexican and Latin Americans with expanded exploration of the interrelationship of dance culture to historical events, holidays, and people throughout the Americas and with further study of folk dances representative of specific regions of Mexico and Latin America.
Note: May be repeated for up to 4 units of credit. Satisfies degree requirement, all students welcome.
DNCE 6A. Hip Hop Level lA. 2 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Introduction to the fundamentals of Hip Hop and Urban dance skills, including basic steps, history, and vocabulary.
Note: May be repeated for up to 4 units of credit. Does not satisfy degree requirement, all students welcome.
DNCE 6B. Hip Hop Level IB. 2 Units
Continues the introduction of the fundamentals of Hip Hop and Urban dance skills, with a deepened study of basic steps, history, and vocabulary.
Note: May be repeated for up to 4 units of credit, does not satisfy degree requirement, all students are welcome.
DNCE 6C. Hip Hop Level IC. 2 Units
Further introduction of the fundamentals of Hip Hop and Urban dance skills, with an expanded study of basic steps, history, and vocabulary.
Note: May be repeated for up to 4 units of credit, does not satisfy degree requirement, all students are welcome.
DNCE 11A. Jazz Dance Level IIA. 2 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Theory and practice of current jazz techniques including continued study of movement vocabulary with an emphasis on the different jazz styles. Instructor with dance faculty representatives will audition students during first week of class for proper placement.
Note: May be repeated for up to 4 units of credit. Satisfies degree requirements, all students welcome. Audition during first week of classes, all students welcome.
DNCE 11B. Jazz Dance Level IIB. 2 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Continued theory and practice of current jazz techniques including the continued study of movement vocabulary with an emphasis on the different jazz styles. Instructor with dance faculty representatives will audition students during first week of class for proper placement.
Note: May be repeated for up to 4 units of credit. Satisfies degree requirements, all students welcome. Audition during the first week of classes, all students welcome.
DNCE 11C. Jazz Dance Level IIC. 2 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Further expanded theory and practice of current jazz techniques including the deepened study of movement vocabulary with an emphasis on the different jazz styles. Instructor with dance faculty representatives will audition students during first week of class for proper placement.
Note: May be repeated for up to 4 units of credit. Satisfies degree requirements, all students welcome. Audition during the first week of classes, all students welcome.
DNCE 12A. Contemporary Dance Level IIA. 2 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Examination of theories of the contemporary dance and modern dance tradition that develops proficiency in performing intermediate level contemporary dance techniques from an intellectual and kinesthetic understanding. Instructor with dance faculty representatives will audition students during first week of class for proper placement.
Note: May be repeated for up to 4 units of credit. Satisfies degree requirements, all students welcome. Audition during first week of classes, all students welcome.
DNCE 12B. Contemporary Dance Level IIB. 2 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Continued examination of theories of the contemporary dance and modern dance tradition that continues the proficiency in performing intermediate level contemporary dance techniques with a deepened intellectual and kinesthetic understanding. Instructor with dance faculty representatives will audition students during first week of class for proper placement.
Note: May be repeated for up to 4 units of credit. Satisfies degree requirements, all students welcome. Audition during first week of classes, all students welcome.
DNCE 12C. Contemporary Dance Level IIC. 2 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Further examination of theories of the contemporary dance and modern dance tradition that further expand the proficiency in performing intermediate level contemporary dance techniques from a deeper intellectual and kinesthetic understanding. Instructor with dance faculty representatives will audition students during first week of class for proper placement.
Note: May be repeated for up to 4 units of credit. Satisfies degree requirements, all students welcome. Audition during first week of classes, all students welcome.
DNCE 13A. Ballet Level IIA. 2 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Understand and demonstrate proficiency of Ballet movement and vocabulary including different styles while learning the importance of proper anatomical alignment, collaboration of foot and arm positions, and appreciation of classical musical accompaniment. Instructor with dance faculty representatives will audition students during first week of class for proper placement.
Note: May be repeated for up to 4 units of credit. Satisfies degree requirements, all students welcome. Audition during first week of classes, all students welcome.
DNCE 13B. Ballet Level IIB. 2 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Continued understanding and deepened demonstration of proficiency of Ballet movement and vocabulary including different styles while learning the importance of proper anatomical alignment, collaboration of foot and arm positions, and appreciation of classical musical accompaniment. Instructor with dance faculty representatives will audition students during first week of class for proper placement.
Note: May be repeated for up to 4 units of credit. Satisfies degree requirements, all students welcome. Audition during first week of classes, all students welcome.
DNCE 13C. Ballet Level IIC. 2 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Further understanding and expanded demonstration of proficiency of Ballet aesthetics through Ballet movement and vocabulary including different styles while learning the importance of proper anatomical alignment, collaboration of foot and arm positions, and appreciation of classical musical accompaniment. Instructor with dance faculty representatives will audition students during first week of class for proper placement.
Note: May be repeated for up to 4 units of credit. Satisfies degree requirements, all students welcome. Audition during first week of classes, all students welcome.
DNCE 14A. Tap Dance Level IIA. 2 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Development and refinement of intermediate tap skills and vocabulary through the study of historical and current tap styles. Instructor with dance faculty representatives will audition students during first week of class for proper placement.
Note: May be repeated for up to 4 units of credit. Satisfies degree requirements, all students welcome. Audition during first week of classes, all students welcome.
DNCE 14B. Tap Dance Level IIB. 2 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Continued development and refinement of intermediate tap skills and vocabulary through the deepened study of historical and current tap styles. Instructor with dance faculty representatives will audition students during first week of class for proper placement.
Note: May be repeated for up to 4 units of credit. Satisfies degree requirements, all students welcome. Audition during first week of classes, all students welcome.
DNCE 14C. Tap Dance Level IIC. 2 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Further development and refinement of intermediate tap skills and vocabulary through the expanded study of historical and current tap styles. Instructor with dance faculty representatives will audition students during first week of class for proper placement.
Note: May be repeated for up to 4 units of credit. Satisfies degree requirements, all students welcome. Audition during first week of classes, all students welcome.
DNCE 21. First Year Seminar: Becoming an Educated Person. 3 Units
General Education Area/Graduation Requirement: Understanding Personal Development (E)
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Introduction to the meaning of higher education, resources of the University, and skills for lifelong learning. Designed to help students develop academic success strategies and to improve information literacy, intercultural competence, and integrative thinking. Provides students with the opportunity to interact with fellow students and seminar faculty to build a community of academic and personal support.
DNCE 22. Music for Dance. 2 Units
Prerequisite(s): DNCE 1A or DNCE 1B or DNCE 1C or DNCE 2A or DNCE 2B or DNCE 2C or instructor permission.
Term Typically Offered: Fall only
Experiential course exploring the musical elements utilized by the dancer, choreographer, and teacher of dance including a survey of music history and vocabulary; rhythms and theory; musical and dance phrasing; and dance performance musicality. This course fulfills requirements for the Dance Major and Dance Minor, non-dance major or minor students welcome.
DNCE 96A. Hip Hop Level IIA. 2 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Theory and practice of Hip Hop and Urban dance skills, including continued study of steps/movement, history, and vocabulary with an emphasis on multiple styles. May be counted for Dance Major with advisor approval, all students are welcome. Instructor permission through course audition required.
Note: May be repeated for up to 4 units of credit
DNCE 111A. Jazz Dance Level IlIA. 2 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Advanced training in the theory and practice of jazz techniques. Instructor with dance faculty representatives will audition students during first week of class for proper placement.
Note: May be repeated for up to 4 units of credit. Satisfies degree requirements, all students welcome. Audition during first week of classes, all students welcome.
DNCE 111B. Jazz Dance Level IIIB. 2 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Continued training at the advanced level in the theory and practice of Jazz Dance techniques. Instructor with dance faculty representatives will audition students during first week of class for proper placement.
Note: May be repeated for up to 4 units of credit. Satisfies degree requirements, all students welcome. Audition during first week of classes, all students welcome.
DNCE 111C. Jazz Dance Level IIIC. 2 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Further advanced training at a deepened level for the theory and practice of jazz techniques. Instructor with dance faculty representatives will audition students during first week of class for proper placement.
Note: May be repeated for up to 4 units of credit. Satisfies degree requirements, all students welcome. Audition during first week of classes, all students welcome.
DNCE 112A. Contemporary Dance Level IlIA. 2 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Advanced training in the theory and practice of Contemporary Dance techniques and Modern Dance Traditions. Instructor with dance faculty representatives will audition students during first week of class for proper placement
Note: May be repeated for up to 4 units of credit. Satisfies degree requirements, all students welcome. Audition during first week of classes, all students welcome.
DNCE 112B. Contemporary Dance Level IIIB. 2 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Continued training at the advanced level in the theory and practice of Contemporary Dance techniques and Modem Dance Traditions. Instructor with dance faculty representatives will audition students during first week of class for proper placement.
Note: May be repeated for up to 4 units of credit. Satisfies degree requirements, all students welcome. Audition during first week of classes, all students welcome.
DNCE 112C. Contemporary Dance Level IIIC. 2 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Further advanced training at a deepened level for the theory and practice of Contemporary Dance techniques and Modern Dance Traditions. Instructor with dance faculty representatives will audition students during first week of class for proper placement.
Note: May be repeated for up to 4 units of credit. Satisfies degree requirements, all students welcome. Audition during first week of classes, all students welcome.
DNCE 113A. Ballet Level IIIA. 2 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Advanced training in the theory and practice of Ballet including proper alignment, collaboration of foot and arm positions, and appreciation of classical musical accompaniment. Instructor with dance faculty representatives will audition students during first week of class for proper placement.
Note: May be repeated for up to 4 units of credit. Satisfies degree requirements, all students welcome. Audition during first week of classes, all students welcome.
DNCE 113B. Ballet Level IIIB. 2 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Continued training at the advanced level in the theory and practice of Ballet including proper alignment, collaboration of foot and arm positions, and appreciation of classical musical accompaniment. Instructor with dance faculty representatives will audition students during first week of class for proper placement.
Note: May be repeated for up to 4 units of credit. Satisfies degree requirements, all students welcome. Audition during first week of classes, all students welcome.
DNCE 113C. Ballet Level IIIC. 2 Units
Prerequisite(s): Instructor permission
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Further refinement within the proficiency of performing Ballet techniques while expanded intellectual and kinesthetic understanding of different Ballet styles which will be attained through the further emphasis of anatomy and the expanded building of the bodily strength and endurance through barre and center work.
Note: May be repeated for up to 4 units of credit. Satisfies degree requirements, all students welcome. Audition during first week of classes, all students welcome.
DNCE 118. Dance Improvisation. 2 Units
Prerequisite(s): DNCE 1A or DNCE 1B or DNCE 1C or DNCE 2A or DNCE 2B or DNCE 2C or instructor permission.
Term Typically Offered: Spring only
Exploration of the creation of movement through improvisation. Students will simultaneously explore and create, while spontaneously performing inner-directed movement without intellectual censorship.
Note: May be repeated for up to 4 units of credit. Satisfies degree requirements, all students welcome.
DNCE 120. Dance Composition I. 2 Units
Prerequisite(s): DNCE 118 or instructor approval
Term Typically Offered: Fall only
An exploration of the principle elements and processes utilized in the choreographic process.
Note: Satisfies degree requirements, all students welcome
DNCE 122. Dance Composition II. 2 Units
Prerequisite(s): DNCE 120 or Instructor permission.
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
An in-depth exploration of the concepts, approaches, and processes used to further develop a stylistic approach to Dance Composition.
Note: Satisfies degree requirements, all students welcome.
DNCE 130. Appreciation and History of Dance. 3 Units
General Education Area/Graduation Requirement: Arts (Area C1)
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Survey in the appreciation and history of dance and the relationship of dance to the fine and liberal arts in Western Civilization. Emphasis upon the history of ballet; American modes of expression: modern and jazz forms.
Note: Non-activity.
DNCE 131. Dance Cultures Of America. 3 Units
General Education Area/Graduation Requirement: Arts (Area C1), Race & Ethnicity Graduation Requirement (RE)
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Survey course in the appreciation and understanding of dance cultures in America. The relationship of dance to the identity and expression of different cultural groups in the U.S. will be examined. Jazz, modern, and ballet from a multicultural perspective will be the focus of the class.
Note: Non-activity.
DNCE 132. African-Caribbean Dance. 3 Units
General Education Area/Graduation Requirement: Race & Ethnicity Graduation Requirement (RE), Arts (Area C1)
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Introduction to the rich dance cultures of the Caribbean. Students will learn the different dances of Haiti, Cuba, Jamaica and Trinidad as they relate to their function in secular and religious culture, including the study of the Dunham Dance Technique.
Note: May be repeated for up to 6 units of credit.
DNCE 142. Dance Science and Somatics. 3 Units
Prerequisite(s): Upper division standing, or instructor permission.
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
The study of skeletal structure, joint and muscle function, and the mechanics of movement geared specifically for dancers and movement practitioners. Incorporated into the course will be the study of embodied awareness practices - Somatics. The structural and energetic connections of the body will be explored within a context of both ease and efficiency of movement as well as creative expression.
Note: May be repeated for up to 6 units of credit. Satisfies degree requirement, all students welcome.
DNCE 143. University Dance Company. 1 Unit
Prerequisite(s): THEA 121and either DNCE 11A, 11B, 11C, 12A, 12B, 12C, 13A, 13B, 13C, 111A, 111B, 111C, 112A, 112B, 112C, 113A, 113B, 113C, or 132.
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Participation in the University Dance Company includes pre-professional dance conditioning and performance skill acquisition. Fulfills requirement for Dance Major and elective for Dance Minor; all students welcome to audition.
Note: Admission by audition only, this course is approximately 30 hours of participation in mandatory weekly class.
DNCE 150. Dance Theory and Criticism. 3 Units
Prerequisite(s): DNCE 122, DNCE 130, DNCE 131, instructor permission.
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Exploration of the contemporary theories and philosophies of movement, specifically in the dance genres of modern and jazz.. Also explores personal aesthetics and how to look at dance from a critical writing and oral presentation perspective. The role of the audience as well as the critic will be assessed and students will learn to evaluate content of movement in relation to its intention, motivation, and delivery.
DNCE 160. Creative Dance for Children. 3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Spring only
Exploration of creative dance as it applies to young children; including exploration of non-locomotor and locomotor movement patterns through problem solving and guided discovery techniques.
DNCE 190. Capstone Dance Project. 2 Units
Prerequisite(s): DNCE 150
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Participation and creative research in the rehearsal, production, and performance of a public dance production. Students will synthesize all major course materials to individually create a new choreographic work and collaboratively produce the Senior Dance Concert as their capstone project. Fulfills requirements for Dance Major.
Note: Dance Majors Only or Instructor Permission.
DNCE 396A. Methods in Dance Education. 3 Units
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Masters of Arts in Teaching (Single Subject) program.
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
Exploration of the practice of instructional methodology in a single subject classroom with a focus on the planning and delivery of dance instruction with evaluation and assessment for diverse learners.
THEA 1. Introduction To Theatre. 3 Units
General Education Area/Graduation Requirement: Arts (Area C1)
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Primarily for non-majors interested in acquiring a background of information in theatre. Plays, history, acting theories, technical methods and people in the theatre. Lectures, demonstrations and discussions will characterize the greater portion of the course.
THEA 2. History of the Theatre: Ancient to Renaissance. 3 Units
General Education Area/Graduation Requirement: Arts (Area C1)
Term Typically Offered: Fall only
Broad survey of the nature and development of theatrical performance from ancient times through the Renaissance which emphasizes the relationship between theatre and the larger philosophical social and political concerns of its time.
THEA 3. Theatre History After 1660. 3 Units
General Education Area/Graduation Requirement: Arts (Area C1)
Term Typically Offered: Spring only
Investigates the relationship between the development of theatre styles, structures and institutions, and philosophical, political, and cultural practices after 1660. Considers plays, production styles, theatre as an institution, and issues of representation of gender, race and class.
THEA 5. Aesthetics of Theatre and Film. 3 Units
General Education Area/Graduation Requirement: Arts (Area C1)
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Interpretations of seminal dramatic scripts emphasizing the aesthetics of the theatrical art in relation to the cinematic medium.
THEA 9. Appreciation Of Acting. 3 Units
General Education Area/Graduation Requirement: Arts (Area C1)
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Examination of the art of acting, including a review of actors and acting - past and present. Basic exercises in voice and diction, movement, and character will be utilized.
THEA 11. Acting Study I. 3 Units
Prerequisite(s): Theatre and Dance Majors or Minors or instructor permission.
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
An introduction to, and a solid working foundation of, the basic building blocks of the acting craft. Through ensemble building, personal reflection, physical commitment, and vocal awareness exercises, students have the opportunity to improve and grow as an actor in both individual and partnered performance. Key learning goals include the ability to understand, interpret and execute the foundational elements of drama (plot, character, thought, and language).
THEA 14. Stage Makeup and Costume Construction. 3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
This course provides a comprehensive look at the technical side of stage makeup and stage costumes, with an emphasis on makeup application and costume construction. Students learn use of materials, equipment, theatre terminology, and the practical aspects of costume and stage makeup realization. Students work on costume and makeup projects from start to finish in the makeup lab and costume shop.
Note: Enrollment restricted to Theatre Majors/Minors, Dance Majors/Minors; non-majors enrolled with Department approval only; Instructor permission required to enroll concurrently with THEA 16 or 20.
THEA 16. Stagecraft. 3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Principles of scenic and stage prop construction, techniques of mounting and shifting stage scenery, and the study of ground plans and construction drawings for theatrical production. Lecture/lab activity.
Note: May not be taken concurrently with THEA 14 or THEA 20 without instructor permission.
THEA 20. Lighting. 3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Principles of stage lighting, fixtures, control and color. Introduction to basic concepts and practices of lighting design. Lecture/lab activity.
Note: May not be taken concurrently with THEA 14 or THEA 16 without instructor permission.
THEA 21. First Year Seminar: Becoming an Educated Person. 3 Units
General Education Area/Graduation Requirement: Understanding Personal Development (E)
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Introduction to the meaning of higher education, resources of the University, and skills for lifelong learning. Designed to help students develop academic success strategies and to improve information literacy, intercultural competence, and integrative thinking. Provides students with the opportunity to interact with fellow students and seminar faculty to build a community of academic and personal support.
THEA 96A. Stage and Production Management. 3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Spring only
Explores the relationship between stage and production management, including the preparation of prompt scripts, pre- and post-production planning and organization, as well as the management of actors, technical rehearsals, and performances. This course focuses on historical and global perspectives, communication tools, and strategies used in the creation and organization of a theatrical production. May count as an elective for the major with advisor approval.
THEA 100. Script Analysis. 3 Units
Prerequisite(s): THEA 2, THEA 3
Corequisite(s): THEA 3
Term Typically Offered: Spring only
Through lecture and discussion, students explore the foundational elements of play scripts. The class investigates the structure of a play as well as its use of character, thought, plot, diction, song, and spectacle to analyze how a play's social and cultural elements inform potential productions.
THEA 102A. Voice and Movement I. 3 Units
Prerequisite(s): THEA 11.
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Introduction to the basic fundamentals of voice production and movement for the actor. Basic anatomy and physiology, relaxation, alignment, and breath work and its connection to movement. Feldenkrais, the Alexander Technique, and physical strengthening exercises are used in combination with vocal exercises to develop the actor's voice and body. Vocal and physical improvisation are introduced through various voice and movement exercises.
THEA 102B. Voice and Movement II. 3 Units
Prerequisite(s): THEA 11, THEA 102A or instructor permission.
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Strengthening and enhancing the vocal work developed in Voice and Movement I is continued with an in depth study of the International Phonetic Alphabet and its importance when performing heightened language plays. Solo presentation and a devised final ensemble project round out the course requirements.
THEA 104. Acting Study II. 3 Units
Prerequisite(s): THEA 11, THEA 102A or instructor permission.
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
To further develop the basic concepts of acting through scene work from the American modern repertoire. Particular emphasis is placed on the importance of a play's given circumstances, and the commitment required to make bold, active tactic choices when developing a character. Further investigation of the actor's process in analyzing text and incorporating research through character analysis, as it ties into performance, are explored.
THEA 106. Latin American Film. 3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Exploration of the major movements in Latin American cinema beginning with the initial impetus of the Argentine and Mexican film industry of the late 1940's and the relationship of their aesthetic formulas to the cultural and socio/political climate of major Latin American nations.
THEA 107. Directing. 3 Units
Prerequisite(s): THEA 2, THEA 3, THEA 11, THEA 14, THEA 16, THEA 20, THEA 100
Term Typically Offered: Fall only
Practical experience in production procedures, characterization and basic principles of play direction. Analyzes directing techniques. Class typically attends a rehearsal and performance at Capital Stage (professional theatre in Midtown).
Note: Field trip.
Field trip(s) may be required.
THEA 109. Musical Theatre. 3 Units
Prerequisite(s): THEA 11
Term Typically Offered: Spring only
Practical study in singer-actor performance techniques. Major consideration is given to coordination of gesture and/or choreography, dialogue, melody, and lyric.
THEA 110. Acting Study III: Advanced Acting. 3 Units
Prerequisite(s): THEA 11, THEA 102A and/or THEA 102B, THEA 104 or instructor permission.
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
The study of ways to research, rehearse and perform advanced acting styles and techniques with an emphasis on text analysis, given circumstances, subtext, and heightened language.
Note: May be taken twice for credit.
THEA 111. Audition Technique. 3 Units
Prerequisite(s): THEA 11, THEA 102A &/OR THEA 102B, THEA 104; Musical Theatre minors must also take THEA 109.
Term Typically Offered: Spring only
An in-depth study of the business of becoming a working professional actor and the techniques needed when auditioning for a professional theatre company. Students prepare an audition repertoire that is appropriate to their age and type; audition for a panel of theatre professionals and receive feedback for both areas of skill and those needing improvement. Resumes, headshots, trade papers, skill sets, and financial budgeting are examples of the areas included within the content of this course. An introduction to television/commercial and musical theatre audition techniques is also incorporated.
THEA 113. Acting Styles: Shakespeare. 3 Units
Prerequisite(s): THEA 11, THEA 102A &/or THEA 102B, THEA 104
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Designed to familiarize the intermediate acting student with the very specific demands of performing the works of William Shakespeare. Beginning with an in-depth study of the structure and meter of verse poetry, THEA 113 provides the vocal, physical, and analytical tools with which to approach this material in an intelligent and confident manner. Scene and monologue work is detailed and extensive.
THEA 115. Puppetry. 3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Play production with puppets. Practical work in constructing and manipulating various kinds of puppets. Simple puppets for use at elementary level; hand puppet production. Lecture/lab activity.
THEA 115A. Multicultural Puppetry. 3 Units
General Education Area/Graduation Requirement: Arts (Area C1), Race & Ethnicity Graduation Requirement (RE)
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Multicultural puppetry was developed to introduce the student to the techniques and construction of puppetry and its use in a multicultural setting. Puppetry has been found to be an excellent tool for the teaching of multiculturalism to children. Emphasizes the methodology in the development of multicultural/multilingual scripts and their use in the implementation of curriculum. The ability to speak a second language is not a prerequisite.
THEA 118. Children's Theatre. 3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Study of special problems and techniques in the production of formal and improvisational drama for children; a consideration of techniques, methods and materials for use in the classroom to support and supplement curricular goals.
THEA 120A. Practicum in Technical Production. 1 Unit
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Practical experience in handling technical stagecraft problems, stage management, and crew management. Activity and participation in major productions. Four hours per week minimum required in workshop.
Note: THEA 120A requires students to work on one departmental production a semester for a minimum of 4 hours/week; may be repeated for credit.
THEA 120B. Practicum in Technical Production. 2 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Practical experience in handling technical stagecraft problems, stage management, crew management. Activity and participation in major productions. Eight hours minimum a week required workshop.
Note: THEA 120B requires student to work on two departmental productions a semester for a minimum of 8 hours/week; may be repeated for credit.
THEA 120C. Practicum in Technical Production. 3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Practical experience in handling technical stagecraft problems, stage management, and crew management. Activity and participation in major productions. 12 hours minimum a week required work shop.
Note: THEA 120C requires students to work on three departmental productions a semester for 12 hours/week; may be repeated for credit.
THEA 121. Rehearsal and Performance. 1 Unit
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Participation in the preparation, rehearsal and performance of a departmental production. Approximately 50 hours of participation (including rehearsal and performance time) for one unit of credit. Admission by audition. A total of six undergraduate units may be taken.
THEA 123. Lighting and Set Design. 3 Units
Prerequisite(s): THEA 16 and THEA 20 or instructor permission.
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Advancement in the methods of developing concepts for and of productions involving analysis of the script, research and spatial awareness in relation to scenic and lighting design.
THEA 131. Costume Design. 3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Spring only
Study of costume history, design elements, play and character analysis, rendering and presentation techniques, and production procedures. Practical experience in the basics of costume construction with a focus on character interpretation and collaboration with other theatre artists.
THEA 140. Black Drama in the African Diaspora. 3 Units
General Education Area/Graduation Requirement: Arts (Area C1)
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Survey of the contributions of theatre artists in the African Diaspora. The reading list includes dramas from Africa, the Caribbean and United Stats and focuses on how social, cultural, and political climates influence Black Drama.
THEA 144. Women and Theatre: Staging Diversity. 3 Units
General Education Area/Graduation Requirement: Race & Ethnicity Graduation Requirement (RE), Arts (Area C1)
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Survey and performance course that focuses on identity theories and the contributions of contemporary female theatre artists. Lecture two hours; lab two hours.
Cross Listed: WOMS 144; only one may be counted for credit.
THEA 155. Contemporary World Cinema. 3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
A historical review of the development of major international film styles and themes. Theoretical and critical concepts derived from this study of international film and then used as the basis to analyze contemporary films of South America, Europe, India, East Asia, Africa and the Middle East. Emphasis is on both the development of formal film techniques and a comparison of the unique cultural values that shape the film narrative style.
Crosslisted: FILM 155
THEA 170. African American Theatre and Culture. 3 Units
Prerequisite(s): Junior standing; a WPJ Portfolio score OR ENGL 109M or ENGL 109W
General Education Area/Graduation Requirement: Arts (Area C1), Writing Intensive Graduation Requirement (WI)
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Survey of African American theatre and drama as a reflection of African American history and culture from slavery to today. This is a writing-intensive course.
THEA 173. Contemporary Chicano/Latino Theatre: Themes and Performance 1965-Present. 3 Units
General Education Area/Graduation Requirement: Arts (Area C1)
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Study of contemporary Chicano/Latino, Chicana/Latina theatre and drama from 1965 to the present, and its approaches toward performance. The course focuses on new trends, influences and new developments in playwriting, directing, performance styles, and its impact on the movie industry.
THEA 174. Multicultural Perspectives in American Theatre. 3 Units
General Education Area/Graduation Requirement: Race & Ethnicity Graduation Requirement (RE), Arts (Area C1)
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Study of the historical and artistic contributions of Native Americans, Chicano/Latinos, African-Americans and Asian-Americans to American Theatre. Focuses on a range of plays from various ethnic and racial groups, forming a multicultural classroom experience; specifically study groups, from 1965 to the present, and examine the cultural, sociological and political climate in which these plays were created.
THEA 175. Multicultural Perspectives in American Film. 3 Units
General Education Area/Graduation Requirement: Arts (Area C1), Race & Ethnicity Graduation Requirement (RE)
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Study of the historical and artistic contributions of Native American, Chicano/Latino, African-Americans and Asian American to the American cinema. The course will concentrate on a range of films with an emphasis on multicultural theoretical and critical writings and will examine the cultural and socio-political climate in which these films were crafted.
THEA 190. Senior Production. 2 Units
Prerequisite(s): THEA 2, THEA 3, THEA 11, THEA 14, THEA 16, THEA 20, THEA 100, THEA 120A, THEA 104, THEA 107, THEA 120 (3 units), THEA 121 and THEA 123 or THEA 131.
Corequisite(s): THEA 120 (3 units) may be taken concurrently if needed
Term Typically Offered: Spring only
This capstone course provides practical experience in theatrical production by focusing on the foundational elements of play production and the collaborative page-to-page production process.
THEA 194. Theatre-Related Work Experience. 3 - 12 Units
Prerequisite(s): Consent of Department chair.
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Supervised employment in a company or producing agency working on theatre-related work, arranged through the Theatre and Dance Department and the Cooperative Education Program office. Requires preparation of application packet, completion of a 3-6 month full-time or part-time work assignment, and a written report. No more than 3 units will be counted towards the degree.
Note: Open only to upper division or graduate students with appropriate course preparation.
Credit/No Credit
THEA 195. Fieldwork. 2 - 3 Units
Prerequisite(s): Junior or Senior standing and permission of the instructor of record.
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Internship with local theatre company or arts organization that provides direct, supervised experience with different aspects of performance and/or theatre management. Requires students to maintain a journal and submit a final paper to faculty internship coordinator. Graded: Credit/ No Credit Units: 2.00 - 3.00
Credit/No Credit
THEA 199. Special Problems in Theatre. 1 - 3 Units
Prerequisite(s): Instructor permission.
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Individual project or directed reading.
Note: Departmental petition required.
THEA 396A. Methods in Theatre Education. 3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
Exploration of the practice of Theatre instructional methodology for the development of single subject Theatre instructors. Focus on the theory and practice, evaluation and assessment in Theatre instruction for diverse learners.