0805. Dramatic Imagination: The Performing Arts in Society (3 s.h.) Core: AR. $.

(Formerly: GE-ARTS 1011.)

Theater, dance, opera--our imaginations give us the natural ability to accept the make-believe worlds they create on stage. While it is the imagination that ultimately allows us to enjoy the performing arts, imagination also plays a role in creating these worlds. Take advantage of our rich local arts community as you experience live performances in Philadelphia! We will use our imaginative capacities to deepen our own experience, while learning about the value of the arts, the controversies surrounding them, and differences in people’s perceptions of the performing arts as compared to other forms of entertainment.

Note: This General Education `Arts` pilot course fulfills the Core Arts (AR) requirement.

0807. The Creative Spirit: A Multidisciplinary View (3 s.h.) Core: AR.

(Formerly: GE-ARTS 1012.)

Man is the animal who creates, but why and how? Whether we are making art or making dinner, creativity ultimately makes a difference in our lives and the lives of others. In this course we will view creativity through the lens of the arts and explore the broader manifestations of the creative spirit in a variety of related fields and disciplines. Students will learn the fundamental concepts of creativity and engage with artists, performers and working professionals exploring the central role creativity plays in their work. Explore your creativity in weekly hands-on group sessions augmented by periodic field visits to see performances, concerts, galleries, etc. Be creative, follow your bliss and develop a passion for life-long learning!

Note: This General Education `Arts` pilot course fulfills the Core Arts (AR) requirement.

1002. Theater: The Collaborative Art (3 s.h.) F S SS. Core: AR. $.

(Formerly: THEATER C110.)

Live professional theater performances serve as the basis for the study of contemporary theater: its elements, its ideas, and its creators. Lecture/demonstrations of the elements of theater art presented by the artists/teachers of the theater faculty.

Note: Theater majors must pass Theater 1002 with a grade of C or better.

1003. Creativity: Basic (3 s.h.) F S.

(Formerly: THEATER 0119.)

The introductory course to creativity in theater. Techniques to encourage creative self-expression and ways of presenting ideas and materials.

Note: Restricted to majors, Creativity is the matrix course for all theater students and leads to the various emphasis programs.

1008. Poetry as Performance (3 s.h.) S.

(Formerly: THEATER 0111.)

This theater course takes the poem off of the printed page, from mere recitation to performance. It teaches theater tips and helpful techniques used in one of the hottest mediums in performance art today, rekindling love of poetry, from Robert Frost, to T.S. Eliot, to Ezra Pound, from Sterling Brown, to Langston Hughes to Sonia Sanchez.

1087. Production Practicum (1 s.h.) F S. $.

(Formerly: THEATER 0100.)

Participation required in at least one departmental production activity.

Note: For theater majors only. Theater 1087 is required every semester the student is a full-time major. If Theater 1087 is not successfully completed (a grade of NC, no credit), Theater 1187 must be taken concurrently with Theater 1087 the following semester. Required every semester the student is a full-time major.

1096. Introduction to Theater Process (3 s.h.) F S. Core: WI. $.

(Formerly: THEATER 0011.)

Prerequisite: English 1002 (C050). For majors only. Co-Requisite: Theater 1002 (C110). For minors only.

Methods of study of dramatic text. Principles of dramatic form; cultural context of modern realistic drama; readings and projects.

Note: Required of all majors. Recommended to non-majors who intend to work with drama professionally in television or film, or as critics. Theater majors must pass Theater 1096 with a grade of C or better.

1187. Production Practicum (1 s.h.) F S.

(Formerly: THEATER 0101.)

Same as Theater 1087. Theater 1187 and Theater 1087 must be taken concurrently the semester following receipt of the grade NC (no credit) for Theater 1087.

Note: Required in the event that a student is unsuccessful in the completion of Theater 1087.

1201. Acting for Non-Majors (3 s.h.) F S SS. Core: AR.

(Formerly: THEATER C025.)

The actor studies Stanislavski through the exploration of Uta Hagen's object exercises. Techniques in relaxation, improvisation and concentration are applied to scene and monologue.

1211. Basic Acting II (3 s.h.) F S.

(Formerly: THEATER 0120.)

Prerequisite: Theater 1201 (C025).

This course is a continuation of 1201, Acting for Non-majors. It is intended for the student who wants more than a basic introduction to acting but may not be able to major in theater. Exercises, scene study, script analysis.

Note: No audition.

1231. Introduction to Acting (3 s.h.) F S.

(Formerly: THEATER 0027.)

The actor explores Uta Hagen’s object exercises. Techniques in relaxation, improvisation, and concentration are applied to two scenes; one modern comedy and one modern dramatic scene.

Note: For theater majors only. Majors must pass Theater 1231 with a grade of C or better. Required for Acting Emphasis.

1411. Technical Theater Production (3 s.h.) F S.

(Formerly: THEATER 0041.)

Introduction to the elements of physical production: scenery, costumes, sound and lighting. Theory and practice of craft and visual communications. Lab and production participation required.

2210. Special Topics (2 to 3 s.h.)

(Formerly: THEATER 0209.)

This course is reserved for intensive study of a particular aspect of theater.

Note: For Majors only. Permission of the instructor is necessary.

2221. Voice for the Actor (3 s.h.) F S.

(Formerly: THEATER 0121.)

Fitzmaurice Technique applied to increase the power, range and expressivity of the voice. Through Yoga and bioenergetics the actor achieves relaxation. Through rib, diaphragmatic and abdominal exercises, the actor finds the freedom of the voice possible in strength and structure.

Note: Required for Acting Emphasis.

2231. Speech for the Actor (3 s.h.) F S.

(Formerly: THEATER 0127.)

Fundamentals of speech for the performer: the goal is clarity, dissipation of regional accents, learning IPA, and American Standard speech.

Note: Required for Acting Emphasis.

2241. Basic Movement (3 s.h.) F S.

(Formerly: THEATER 0123.)

Introduces the student actor to basic skills, concepts and techniques of movement for the actor. Modern dance, improvisation and physicalization of dramatic text are integral parts of the course.

Note: Required for Acting Emphasis.

2251. Movement for the Actor (3 s.h.) F S.

(Formerly: THEATER 0223.)

Prerequisite: Theater 1201 (C025), 2241 (0123).

Experience in various dance idioms including modern, social, jazz, and character choreodram especially designed for the actor.

2252. Movement for the Actor II (3 s.h.)

(Formerly: THEATER 0224.)

This Movement/Alexander Technique for actors course is designed to help actors bring out the potential of their acting instrument by developing awareness of their personal habits of physical and vocal use in life, rehearsal, and performance. The course introduces choices actors can employ to change their habitual patterns of use. Increased awareness and specific physical choices give the actor a means to work with themselves in order to improve their coordination, balance, vocal freedom, breath support, emotional availability, and stage presence. These techniques can also be applied to decrease stress, improve back and neck health, prevent repetitive stress injuries, and decrease performance anxiety.

2261. Basic Acting Technique (3 s.h.) F S.

(Formerly: THEATER 0126.)

Prerequisite: Grade of B or higher in Theater 1231 (0027) or permission of the department.

The actor applies the Uta Hagen Technique to scene work. Exploration of scenes from 20th century American dramatic literature.

Note: Required for Acting Emphasis. May be repeated with permission of the department.

2271. Speech for the Actor I/Dialects (3 s.h.)

(Formerly: THEATER 0221.)

Prerequisite: Theater 2231 (0127).

The study of dialects most commonly used in the American theater. Each student has the opportunity to work with an additional dialect of particular interest. Application of the International Phonetic Alphabet, as well as ear-training are fundamental to learning new dialects.

2411. Introduction to Design (3 s.h.) F S.

(Formerly: THEATER 0243.)

Prerequisite: Theater 1411 (0041).

The basic compositional elements of line, form, texture, and color. A context for viewing all areas of theater design.

Note: Theater majors must pass Theater 2411 with a grade of C or better.

2421. Creative Sound Technique (3 s.h.)

(Formerly: THEATER 0248.)

Practical techniques for theater sound design.

2441. Stage Management I (3 s.h.) F S.

(Formerly: THEATER 0246.)

The basic organization of stage productions with emphasis on the relationship of management to artists and product. Production participation required.

2511. Lighting for the Theater (3 s.h.) F.

(Formerly: THEATER 0351.)

Prerequisite: Theater 1411 (0041).

Basic mechanics of lighting and an introduction to the design process.

Note: Production participation required.

2512. Lighting Design I (3 s.h.) S.

(Formerly: THEATER 0352.)

Prerequisite: Theater 2511 (0351) or permission of department.

Lighting design projects for a variety of plays and stage forms. Graphic projects required.

2611. Make-Up (3 s.h.)

(Formerly: THEATER 0369.)

Basic make-up techniques for the theater.

2612. Costume Design I (3 s.h.) S.

(Formerly: THEATER 0360.)

Prerequisite: Theater 2411 (0243) or permission of instructor.

Costume design for the stage. Graphic projects required.

2711. Drawing and Rendering Techniques (3 s.h.) F S.

(Formerly: THEATER 0373.)

Prerequisite: Permission of department.

Basic techniques of rendering the human figure, furniture, architecture, and landscapes in various graphic media. These skills are focused on communicating ideas for stage and film.

2721. Scene Design I (4 s.h.) F.

(Formerly: THEATER 0378.)

Prerequisite: Theater 1411 (0041) and 2411 (0243), or permission of department.

Scenic design for the stage. Graphic projects required.

3001. History of the Theater I (3 s.h.)

This course studies the development of theatrical modes of presentation, playwrights, plays, architecture, actors, producing agents, and audiences from the beginnings of theater to 1800. Relationships are drawn between the developing theater and the political and social history of the times.

3002. History of the Theater II (3 s.h.)

This course studies the development of theatrical modes of presentation, playwrights, plays, architecture, actors, producing agents, and audiences from 1800 to today. Relationships are drawn between the developing theater and the political and social history of the times.

3012. American Musical Theater (3 s.h.) F.

(Formerly: THEATER 0312.)

In this course you will study the form of the American Musical through a detailed analysis of the Book of the show. Focus on the subject matter, complexity of the situation, character development, and the introduction of the song. A study of musicals ranging from the 1920s to the present.

Note: Theater majors must pass Theater 3012 with a grade of C or better.

3051. Modern Directions (3 s.h.) F S.

(Formerly: THEATER 0305.)

The dramatic literature, criticism, and theater history of the modern period studied in appropriate cultural contexts.

Note: Required of all majors. Theater majors must pass Theater 3051 with a grade of C or better.

3052. Theater of Protest (3 s.h.) F.

(Formerly: THEATER 0115.)

Behind nearly every successful social movement, thwarted military coup or insurgent political revolution, there has always been the Theater of Protest. A unique, cross-culturally distinct genre, the plays, the performers and oftentimes, even the playwrights themselves, that have added their political bent to the discourse on the Theater of Protest, have put their lives on the line as resistance warriors in cultural movements, sometimes even paying the ultimate price for their art.

3053. Women in Theater (3 s.h.)

(Formerly: THEATER 0114.)

This course examines the contribution of women in the theater from the renaissance to the present. Playwrights, actors, directors and designers are considered.

3054. African-American Theater (3 s.h.)

(Formerly: THEATER 0116.)

This course examines thematic concerns and dramatic techniques of African American theater from the Harlem Renaissance to the present.

3055. Performance Art (3 s.h.) F.

(Formerly: THEATER 0117.)

An introduction to performance art. Lecture and discussion of the history and aesthetics of the form. Students will create projects that may combine music, art, dance and theater. The course culminates in an original performance piece presented to the Theater Department at the end of the semester.

3070. Seminar in Drama (3 s.h.) F S.

(Formerly: THEATER 0307.)

Intensive research into a specialized topic in dramatic literature, criticism, or theater history. Written and/or oral presentation required.

Note: Required of all majors. American Musical Theater (3012) and History of Modern Scene Design (4711) will be accepted as alternates for 3070. Theater majors must pass Theater 3070 with a grade of C or better.

3080. Special Topics (2 to 4 s.h.)

Advanced study in special topic areas under the direction of an area specialist.

Note: Theater majors only. Permission of a faculty member.

3082. General Study (1 to 3 s.h.) F S SS.

(Formerly: THEATER 0391.)

Arranged each semester, please consult with the instructor.

3096. Classical Tradition (3 s.h.) F S. Core: WI.

(Formerly: THEATER W303.)

Required of all majors. The dramatic literature, criticism, and theater history of ancient Greece and Rome and their influence on Western theatrical development, studied in appropriate cultural contexts.

Note: Theater majors must pass Theater 3096 with a grade of C or better.

3097. Romantic Tradition (3 s.h.) F S. Core: WI.

(Formerly: THEATER W304.)

The dramatic literature, criticism, and theater history of the Renaissance in England and subsequent developments in Europe in the late 18th and early 19th centuries studied in appropriate cultural contexts.

Note: Required of all theater majors. Theater majors must pass Theater 3097 with a grade of C or better.

3191. Research (1 to 3 s.h.) F S.

(Formerly: THEATER 0399.)

Arranged each semester, please consult with the instructor.

3210. Theater Workshop (3 s.h.)

(Formerly: THEATER 0316.)

Prerequisite: Theater 1231 (0027), Theater 2241 (0123), Theater 2261 (0126).

Special Topics in Acting: Intensive study of a specific theater discipline as it applies to acting, voice, speech, singing and/or movement.

3220. Theater Workshop (3 s.h.)

(Formerly: THEATER 0317.)

Prerequisite: Theater 1231 (0027), Theater 2241 (0123), Theater 2261 (0126).

Special Topics in Acting: Intensive study of a specific theater discipline as it applies to acting, voice, speech, singing and/or movement. A continuation of Theater 3210.

3221. Advanced Voice for the Actor (3 s.h.)

(Formerly: THEATER 0222.)

Prerequisite: Theater 2221 (0121).

Focus on structuring the voice while maintaining relaxation and centeredness acquired in destructuring. Use rib-reserve and abdominal support/transverse measures. Apply to monologues, poetry and scenes.

Note: For majors only.

3230. Theater Workshop (3 s.h.)

(Formerly: THEATER 0318.)

Prerequisite: Theater 1231 (0027), Theater 2241 (0123), Theater 2261 (0126).

Special Topics in Acting: Intensive study of a specific theater discipline as it applies to acting, voice, speech, singing and/or movement.

3231. Advanced Speech for the Actor (3 s.h.)

(Formerly: THEATER 0322.)

Prerequisite: Speech for the Actor - Theater 2231 (0127), or equivalent prerequisite.

This Advanced Speech class focuses on pinpointing the aspiring professional actor`s current dialect limitations. Students will master the international phonetic alphabet and learn the two industry standard neutral dialects for stage and television acting. Concentrated individual coaching in scene work and audition monologues will help make students more competitive professionally.

3241. Stage Combat (3 s.h.) F S.

(Formerly: THEATER 0328.)

Introduces the student actor to basic concepts and attributes needed to build the illusion of violence on the stage in a safe and cooperative manner. Emphasizes expanding the student's movement vocabulary and special awareness. Specific instruction on rolls, tumbles, breakfalls, and unarmed combat.

3271. Intermediate Acting (3 s.h.) F S.

(Formerly: THEATER 0225.)

Prerequisite: Grade of B or higher in Theater 2261 (0126) OR permission from the department.

Exploration of the physical life of the character through Uta Hagen`s exercises, as well as through Michael Checkov technique. The actor is introduced to concepts of the center and psychological gesture through the performance of works from the following playwrights: Chekov, Shaw, Wilde, Coward, O`Neill, Wilson, Miller, Shepard and Kushner.

Note: Required for Acting Emphasis.

3278. Acting for Film and TV (3 s.h.) S.

(Formerly: THEATER 0319.)

Cross Listed with FMA 3361 (0322).

This course is designed for theater majors to develop their skills before the camera. Actors are given experience in texts for commercials, soap operas, sit-coms, and film scenes, so that they are prepared for auditions in these areas.

3301. Introduction to the Director`s Art (3 s.h.) F S.

(Formerly: THEATER 0335.)

Prerequisite: Theater 1096 (0011), 1231 (0027), 1411 (0041), and 2411 (0243), or permission of the department.

Introduction to the fundamental process and tools of directing. Focus on script analysis, the principles of composition, movement and rhythm and their application, and the practicalities of rehearsal and working with actors.

Note: Theater majors must pass Theater 3301 with a grade of C or better.

3321. Rehearsal & Performance (2 to 4 s.h.)

Scene work involving students from acting and directing.

3421. Technical Direction for the Theater (3 s.h.) F.

(Formerly: THEATER 0341.)

Prerequisite: Theater 1411 (0041) and permission of department.

Drafting technical and management skills necessary to mount the theatrical production.

3431. Scene Painting I (3 s.h.) F. $.

(Formerly: THEATER 0276.)

Prerequisite: Theater 1411 (0041) or permission of department.

Traditional theatrical scene painting techniques.

3432. Scene Painting II (3 s.h.) S.

(Formerly: THEATER 0277.)

Prerequisite: Theater 3431 (0276) or permission of department.

Advanced and experimental scene painting techniques.

3611. History of Costume and Architectural Decor (3 s.h.) F.

(Formerly: THEATER 0363.)

A survey of social costume, architectural styles and decoration in the principal periods with which Western world theater is concerned. The adaptation of such material for use in design for stage, television, and film.

3621. Costume Production (3 s.h.) F.

(Formerly: THEATER 0367.)

Prerequisite: Permission of department.

Study of basic planning and construction skills in all aspects of costume production.

3622. Draping and Flat Pattern Drafting (3 s.h.) S. $.

(Formerly: THEATER 0368.)

Prerequisite: Theater 3621 (0367) and permission of department.

Development of advanced skills in costume production.

3801. Playwriting (3 s.h.) S.

(Formerly: THEATER 0381.)

This course is designed to introduce basic playwriting, in particular elements of the playwright`s craft: dramatic action, plot, characterization and theatricality. The course functions as a playwriting workshop with students presenting exercises in class to be discussed by their peers. Utilizing techniques learned, students will complete a draft of a one-act play.

4003. Production Dramaturgy (2 to 4 s.h.)

Prerequisite: Theater 4097.

This course engages the student in the process of providing comprehensive production dramaturgy to better enhance and support the creative process of mounting and marketing a theatrical production.

4097. World of the Play (3 s.h.) Core: WI.

This course is intended to provide an overview of the dramaturgical research process. It is the prerequisite for an advanced elective course in Production Dramaturgy, where the students will be assigned to serve as actual production dramaturges for our six main stage productions, providing research materials for the cast, the creative team, and for publicity/marketing purposes. Included will be approaches to creating study guides for both audiences and for educational purposes.

4211. Advanced Acting (3 s.h.) F S.

(Formerly: THEATER 0325.)

Prerequisite: Grade of B or higher in both Theater 2261 (0126) and 3271 (0225) OR permission of the department.

Acting theory and technique in expressing style, characterization, and interpretation as applied to classical dramatic literature, such as Shakespeare, Moliere, the Greeks, and Restoration. Requires intensive outside preparation of exercises and scenes for presentation in class.

Note: Required for Acting Emphasis.

4221. Theater as a Profession (3 to 4 s.h.) F.

(Formerly: THEATER 0329.)

Prerequisite: Permission of the instructor. Co-Requisite: Theater 1087 (0100).

This course is designed for Theater majors who have completed most of their theater requirements and expect to work in the profession. The course provides information about the business of show business as well as instruction in auditioning, resume preparation, business expenses, artistic leadership and portfolio presentation. Guest faculty will discuss preparation for work in acting, directing, design, technical production, dramaturgy and playwriting. Projects for students in all areas will be included.

4222. URTA Preparation Class (3 s.h.)

Prerequisite: Completion of Theater 4299 (0326) with a `B` or better, and permission of instructor. Special authorization required for all students. Co-Requisite: Theater 1087 (0100).

Intended for Acting Emphasis students in Theater who have completed all of the Acting Emphasis courses, including the Acting Emphasis Thesis Project, and plan to further their training in a graduate or professional training program. The student will become familiar with the processes and application of scene study technique and text analysis as applied to the monologue. Also, the student will apply to the monologues the craft skills they have learned in speech, voice and movement; they will practice methods for incorporating these skills in a warm-up before audition. Research methods learned in the Acting Emphasis are applied to choosing monologues. Rehearsal discipline and improvisational techniques acquired in scene study are applied to monologue preparation. In addition, the student will become familiar with the new skill of cold-readings essential for the audition process.

4241. Advanced Stage Combat (3 s.h.)

(Formerly: THEATER 0330.)

Prerequisite: Theater 3241 (0328) or permission of the instructor.

Develops the student actor`s ideas of combat concepts and attributes needed to build the illusion of violence on the stage in a safe and cooperative manner. Emphasizes expanding the student`s movement vocabulary and special awareness. Specific instruction on advanced combat techniques.

4282. Acting (1 to 3 s.h.) F S.

(Formerly: THEATER 0392.)

Arranged each semester, please consult with the instructor.

4299. Thesis for Acting Emphasis (4 s.h.) S.

(Formerly: THEATER 0326.)

Prerequisite: Grade of B or higher in Theater 2261 (0126), 3271 (0225) and 4211 (0325) OR permission of the department.

Selection, preparation, and performance of one-act plays. Focus on characterization, scene analysis, and a deeper understanding of acting technique as applied to the dramatic structure of the one-act. As far as casting, there are no small parts -- all roles are substantial. Plays are presented at the end of the semester in a Festival of One-Acts. This opportunity enables the actor to grow and develop in a way that only a major performance challenge can provide. Requires intensive outside rehearsal for presentation in class.

Note: Required for Acting Emphasis.

4301. Advanced Directing (4 s.h.) F S.

(Formerly: THEATER 0338.)

Prerequisite: Theater 3301 (0335), 3241 (0328) or equivalent, 2261 (0126), or permission of the department.

The focus of this class will be on advancing the director’s storytelling techniques of script analysis, concept work, staging and working with actors and design elements by applying them to a challenging variety of material and longer forms beyond the single scene, culminating in the presentation of a one act play or one act of a full-length play.

4482. Technical Production (1 to 3 s.h.) F S.

(Formerly: THEATER 0394.)

Arranged each semester, please consult with the instructor.

4511. Creativity in Lighting (3 s.h.) F.

(Formerly: THEATER 0353.)

Prerequisite: Theater 2511 (0351) or permission of instructor.

Lighting design projects in the Lighting Laboratory. The purpose of the course is to expand the designer`s vision beyond naturalistic effect and explore how painting, architecture, music, and other arts can provide inspiration and the basis for design in all media.

4582. Lighting Design (1 to 3 s.h.) F S.

(Formerly: THEATER 0395.)

Arranged each semester, please consult with the instructor.

4611. Costume Design II (4 s.h.) F.

(Formerly: THEATER 0361.)

Prerequisite: Theater 2411 (0243) or permission of instructor.

Costume design for the stage. Graphics projects required.

4711. History of Modern Scenic Design (3 s.h.) F S.

(Formerly: THEATER 0372.)

Prerequisite: Theater 1096 (0011), 3051 (0305), and permission of department.

Survey of major historical periods of theatrical design. Intensive reading in the period 1880 to present. Oral and written projects.

4721. Scene Design II (4 s.h.) S.

(Formerly: THEATER 0379.)

Prerequisite: Theater 1411 (0041), and 2411 (0243), or permission of department.

Scenic designs for a variety of plays and stage forms. Graphic projects required.

4782. Scene Design (1 to 3 s.h.) F S.

(Formerly: THEATER 0397.)

Arranged each semester, please consult with the instructor.