Department of Theatre & Dance
Dr. David Young, Department Chair
Email: david.young@wku.edu
Gordon Wilson Hall, Office 300A
Phone: (270) 745-5845; Fax: (270) 745-5879
Website: http://www.wku.edu/theatre-and-dance
Theatre & Dance is determined to be a department where you can reach your full potential. We offer several different degree programs, all designed to balance theory and practice. Our AB degree in Dance and our AB degree in Theatre are each designed to provide a solid liberal arts foundation in their discipline while leaving room for study in a minor or second major. Our BFA in Performing Arts degree provides a broad study of theatre while also offering intensive pre-professional training in one of four required areas of concentration: Acting, Theatre, Musical Theatre, or Theatre Design & Technology. We also offer 4 minors: a minor in Theatre, a minor in Musical Theatre, a minor in Dance, and a minor in Arts Administration. We believe that what you learn in the shops, the studios, and onstage is every bit as important as what happens in the classroom. Our department is your laboratory. Our intensive production season complements the curriculum by offering you ample opportunity to put theory to the test as you work side by side with your peers, faculty, and guest artists on a steady variety of theatre and dance productions. Every student is different, and we see that as an asset to our department and to our field! We offer all kinds of opportunities for artistic, technical, and personal growth so that you can shape your training in the ways that best suit your individual needs and goals. Career preparation is also woven into our curriculum with courses such as Acting Audition Workshop, Dance Pedagogy, and Performing Arts Career Seminar. Whatever degree you choose as the best path for you, we'll challenge you, we'll collaborate with you, and we'll care about you.
Western Kentucky University is an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Theatre and the National Association of Schools of Dance.
Faculty
Professor
Amanda G. Clark MFA (Dance), University of Oklahoma Norman, 2005
Elena S. Pollatsek MFA (Theatre Design), New York University, 1998
Associate Professor
Tiffany I. Brown DMA (Music), Louisiana State University & A&M College, 2011
Michelle G. Dvoskin PhD (Theatre), University of Texas at Austin, 2010
Meghen L. McKinley MFA (Dance), University of Hawaii at Manoa, 2012
Anna L. Patsfall MFA (Dance), Florida State University, 2017
David A. Young PhD (Theatre), Wayne State University, 2000
Assistant Professor
Alan R. White MFA (Theatre), LA State University System Office, 2021
Instructor I
Gabriela M. Castillo MA (Drama), Michigan State University, 2024
Christopher E. Gilly-Forrer MFA (Drama), University North Carolina Greensboro, 2022
Joshua J. Mullady MFA (Theatre), University of Tennessee, Knoxville, 2023
Mary K. Samouce MFA (Theatre Design), New York University, 1995
Jennifer L. Wolcott MM (Music), Southern Illinois University Carbondale, 2012
Instructor II
Carol Jordan MA (Theatre Education), Emerson College, 1998
Dance (DANC)
DANC 103 Foundations of Dance Technique 2 Hours (repeatable max of 8 hrs)
Introduction to dance course designed for students with no dance experience or very limited exposure. Focuses on the fundamentals of dance technique.
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024
DANC 108 Beginning Men’s Ballet Technique 2 Hours (repeatable max of 8 hrs)
Beginning men's ballet technique. Repeatable up to three times for credit.
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
DANC 110 Dance Appreciation 3 Hours
A general study of the various forms of dance with emphasis on the contributions each has made to the performing arts and the development of our culture. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code E-AH | AH
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; summer 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; summer 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024
DANC 111 Ballet I 2 Hours (repeatable max of 8 hrs)
Beginning level of ballet with focus on the basic principles of ballet technique. Includes introduction to the history, theory, terminology, and technique of classical ballet. Repeatable up to four times for credit.
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024
DANC 112 Dance Flexibility / Strength Technique 1 Hour
A study of principals of movement involved in the efficient development of the dancer's body with emphasis on a careful approach that will prevent or minimize common dance injuries.
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
DANC 113 Jazz I 2 Hours (repeatable max of 8 hrs)
An introduction to the basic techniques of jazz dance designed for the student with previous dance experience; Emphasis on terminology, body awareness, mechanics, and rhythmical development. Repeatable up to four times for credit.
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024
DANC 115 Tap I 2 Hours (repeatable max of 8 hrs)
An introduction to the foundational technique of tap with emphasis on terminology and mechanics, historical influences, and basic musical terms and concepts. Repeatable up to four times for credit.
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; fall 2023; fall 2024
DANC 117 Modern I 2 Hours (repeatable max of 8 hrs)
An introduction to the basic techniques of modern dance with emphasis on body awareness through an integrated somatics-based approach. Repeatable up to four times for credit.
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2024
DANC 211 Ballet II 2 Hours (repeatable max of 8 hrs)
A study of intermediate level ballet. Explores the principles of ballet technique, basic dance anatomy, ballet theory, history, and artistic self-expression. Repeatable up to four times for credit.
Prerequisite(s): DANC 111
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024
DANC 212 Partnering I 2 Hours
A study in the basic techniques of partnering with emphasis on the techniques and mechanics that apply to support, timing, and concepts of classical partnering.
Prerequisite(s): DANC 211
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
DANC 213 Jazz II 2 Hours (repeatable max of 8 hrs)
A study of beginning/intermediate level jazz dance technique with emphasis on vocabulary, effective body isolation, rhythmic accuracy, performance, and awareness of historical influences. Repeatable up to four times for credit.
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024
DANC 215 Tap II 2 Hours (repeatable max of 8 hrs)
A study of beginning/ intermediate level tap technique with emphasis on terminology, rhythmical development of styles, historical influences, and basic musical terms and concepts. Repeatable up to four times for credit.
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2023; spring 2024
DANC 217 Modern II 2 Hours (repeatable max of 8 hrs)
A study of modern dance technique at the beginning/intermediate level with emphasis on action efforts through performance, historical components, and mind-body awareness. Repeatable up to four times for credit.
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024
DANC 235 Dance Improvisation 2 Hours
A guided exploration of solo and group improvisation technique through structured, free, and contact improv contexts including sensory experiences and choreographic tools.
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; fall 2023; fall 2024
DANC 300 Dance Company 1 Hour (repeatable max of 10 hrs)
Dance performance ensemble. NOTE: Requires audition, and concurrent enrollment in two appropriate dance technique courses.
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024
DANC 301 Dance Pedagogy 3 Hours
Study and practice of teaching methods and skills applicable to the teaching of dance technique.
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; fall 2023; fall 2024
DANC 310 Choreography I 3 Hours
An introduction to the elements that go into the creative development of dance with emphasis on the isolation of various elements for the purpose of detailed study.
Prerequisite(s): DANC 235
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2023; spring 2024
DANC 311 Ballet III 2 Hours (repeatable max of 8 hrs)
A study of intermediate level ballet. Explores the principles of ballet technique, basic dance anatomy, ballet theory, history, and artistic self-expression. Repeatable up to four times for credit.
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024
DANC 312 Partnering II 2 Hours
A continuation of DANC 212.
Prerequisite(s): DANC 212
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
DANC 313 Jazz III 2 Hours (repeatable max of 8 hrs)
A study of intermediate level jazz dance technique with focus on technical execution, movement style, musicality, and performance. Includes study of historical influences. Repeatable up to four times for credit.
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; fall 2023; fall 2024
DANC 314 Styles of Musical Theatre Dance I 2 Hours (repeatable max of 8 hrs)
Development of basic practical knowledge of choreographed movement in the musical theatre dance idiom; includes study of fundamentals of ballet for the actor, derivative musical/rhythmic forms, and elementary Broadway dance vocabulary and styles.
Prerequisite(s): (DANC 111 and DANC 115) and DANC 213
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
DANC 315 Tap III 2 Hours (repeatable max of 8 hrs)
A study of intermediate level tap technique designed to develop speed, control, dynamic shading, and rhythmic accuracy. Includes study of historical influences and musical and compositional structures through a variety of tap styles. Repeatable up to four times for credit.
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; fall 2023; fall 2024
DANC 317 Modern III 2 Hours (repeatable max of 8 hrs)
An expansion of modern dance technique and theory at the intermediate/advanced level with emphasis on movement analysis, technical vocabulary, style, presentation, and historical explorations. Repeatable up to four times for credit.
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2023; spring 2024
DANC 320 Choreography Production 2 Hours
Application of compositional elements toward a completed choreography project. Includes work on production in progress.
Prerequisite(s): DANC 310
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
DANC 334 Pointe I 1 Hour (repeatable max of 8 hrs)
Preparation for and study of techniques applicable to pointe work as a specialized form of classical ballet.
Prerequisite(s): DANC 318
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; fall 2023; fall 2024
DANC 336 Point II 1 Hour (repeatable max of 8 hrs)
Second level in the study of technique applicable to pointe work. This course is designed to develop the accuracy and precision for dancing more complicated pointe variations.
Prerequisite(s): DANC 334
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2023; spring 2024
DANC 350 Dance History 3 Hours
A survey of the historical and aesthetic development of dance as an art form in Europe and America from ancient Greece to contemporary periods.
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; fall 2024
DANC 360 Dance in Culture: Moving History 3 Hours
Survey of world dance forms, emphasizing social, cultural and aesthetic principles defining these forms. Gender, racial, political and religious orientations shaping dance history are examined. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code K-SC
Prerequisite(s): 21 hours of Foundations and Explorations Courses, or junior status
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; summer 2022; fall 2022; summer 2023; fall 2023; summer 2024; fall 2024
DANC 400 Visual Media for Dance 3 Hours
This course will explore a variety of digital techniques for dance films, screen dance, choreographic documentation, as well as projection integration for choreographic purposes. Students will participate in discussions, observations, collaborative projects, hands on training, and dance film/media analysis. Students will explore the technical, practical, and artistic challenges involved in producing dance media work.
Prerequisite(s): DANC 420 with a minimum grade of C
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2023
DANC 410 Dance Practicum 3 Hours (repeatable max of 12 hrs)
An independent study project that enables the student to do research and special projects in unique areas where the usual course-work does not fulfill the need of the student.
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2023
DANC 411 Ballet IV 2 Hours (repeatable max of 8 hrs)
A study of advanced level ballet. Includes study of principles of ballet technique, with special emphasis on anatomical principles and artistic expression. Repeatable up to four times for credit.
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024
DANC 413 Jazz IV 2 Hours (repeatable max of 8 hrs)
A study of advanced level jazz dance technique with emphasis on artistic quality, musicality, style, and performance. Includes study of historical influences. Repeatable up to four times for credit.
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2023; spring 2024
DANC 414 Special Topics in Dance 2 Hours (repeatable max of 8 hrs)
A special-topics course for advanced study in a particular area of dance. May be repeated four times for credit.
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024
DANC 415 Tap IV 2 Hours (repeatable max of 8 hrs)
A study o advanced level tap technique designed to enhance ability in improvisation, style, composition, and performance. Repeatable up to four times for credit.
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024
DANC 417 Modern IV 2 Hours (repeatable max of 8 hrs)
Advanced study of modern technique with increased difficulty and style variety in combinations, emphasis on performance and artistry, somatic approach and understanding, and creative components. Repeatable up to four times for credit.
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; fall 2023; fall 2024
DANC 420 Choreography II 3 Hours (repeatable max of 9 hrs)
Examines the analytical facet of making and viewing choreography, focusing on theme, meaning and the artist's creative voice.
Prerequisite(s): DANC 310
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; fall 2023; fall 2024
DANC 445 Dance Anatomy and Kinesiology 3 Hours
An analysis of the principles of anatomy and kinesiology for dancers. Note: Restricted to students who have successfully completed a 300-level dance technique course.
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2023; spring 2024
Performing Arts (PERF)
PERF 101 Acting 3 Hours
Improvisation, theatre games, and introductory scene and/or monologue work intended to develop fundamental performance and ensemble collaboration skills.
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
PERF 110 Mat Pilates 2 Hours (repeatable max of 6 hrs)
A study of Pilates-based, mat exercises. Holistic exercises use specific breath support and provide physical/mental conditioning that change muscle tone, balance, flexibility and overall fitness and well-being. Repeatable two times for credit.
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
PERF 120 Rehearsal and Production 1 Hour
An introductory, experiential learning course providing an overview of theatre and dance production safety procedures and rehearsal etiquette, as well as practical experience in all areas of theatrical production.
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; fall 2023; fall 2024
PERF 175 University Experience: Performing Arts 2 Hours
Designed to develop academic skills and library research skills to foster personal development and to provide information about campus resources, thus empowering students to have a successful transition to the higher education experience.
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; fall 2023; fall 2024
PERF 205 Voice and Movement for the Stage 1 Hour (repeatable max of 4 hrs)
A developmental studio course designed to help students enhance the quality, strength, balance, flexibility and control of their natural vocal/kinesthetic abilities. Repeatable once for credit.
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024
PERF 220 Production Lab I 0.5-1 Hours (repeatable max of 2 hrs)
A variable credit experiential learning course designed to provide experience in theatrical production. Repeatable for a total of 2 credits.
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024
PERF 261 Performing Arts Practicum I 1 Hour (repeatable max of 4 hrs)
Individualized, mentored practical project course in drama, theatre or dance. Repeatable 3 times for a total of 4 credit hours.
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024
PERF 300 Topics in Contemporary Performance Studies 3 Hours (repeatable max of 9 hrs)
Topics-based course focusing on a particular area of contemporary performance theory and practice. May be repeated twice for a total of 9 credit hours.
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
PERF 320 Production Lab II 0.5,1 Hours (repeatable max of 2 hrs)
A variable credit experiential learning course designed to provide experience in theatrical production.
Prerequisite(s): PERF 220
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024
PERF 321 Production Lab III 0.5-1 Hours (repeatable max of 2 hrs)
A variable credit experiential learning course designed to provide experience in theatrical production. Repeatable for a total of 2 credits.
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024
PERF 331 Dramaturgy Lab 0.5-2 Hours (repeatable max of 6 hrs)
Practice-based learning in at least one area of dramaturgy (literary management, production dramaturgy, new play dramaturgy, audience outreach).
Prerequisite(s): THEA 252 with a minimum grade of C
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024
PERF 340 Performance Lab I 0.5-1 Hours (repeatable max of 2 hrs)
A variable credit experiential learning course designed to provide practical experience in theatrical performance under actual production conditions. Repeatable for a total of 2 credits.
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024
PERF 341 Performance Lab II 0.5-1 Hours (repeatable max of 2 hrs)
A variable credit experiential learning course designed to provide practical experience in theatrical performance under actual production conditions.
Prerequisite(s): PERF 340
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024
PERF 350 Voice and Diction for the Theatre 1 Hour
Study and practice of proper vocal production and standard American diction for theatrical applications.
Prerequisite(s): THEA 300
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2024
PERF 361 Performing Arts Practicum II 2 Hours (repeatable max of 8 hrs)
Individualized, mentored practical project course in drama, theatre or dance. Repeatable 3 times for a total of 8 credit hours.
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024
PERF 362 Theatre in Diversion 3 Hours (repeatable max of 6 hrs)
Course focusing on techniques for working with at-risk youth. Will provide students with a chance to teach drama skills and develop a performance showcase with teenagers in the juvenile justice system, and to evaluate the effectiveness of these interventions in reducing delinquency.
Prerequisite(s): (SOCL 100 and SOCL 302) or THEA 252
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
PERF 369 Professional Work / Career Experience in Theatre 3 Hours (repeatable max of 6 hrs)
Practical out-of-classroom experience in a supervised work situation with a cooperating business, industry, social or governmental agency. Can be repeated one time with departmental approval.
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2024
PERF 400 Advanced Performing Arts Studio 3 Hours (repeatable max of 9 hrs)
A team mentored applied performing arts studio offering advanced Department of Theatre and Dance majors an opportunity to work together in small, collaborative teams on the conceptualization and production of fully realized performing arts events. Repeatable twice for a total of 9 credits. Note: Theatre and Dance majors only, at least junior standing.
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023; fall 2024
PERF 401 Solo Performance 3 Hours
Practical training in the creation and performance of solo performance works.
Prerequisite(s): THEA 252 with a minimum grade of C and THEA 101 with a minimum grade of C
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2023; spring 2024
PERF 420 Production Lab IV 0.5-1 Hours (repeatable max of 2 hrs)
A variable credit experiential learning course designed to provide experience in theatrical production. Repeatable for a total of 2 credits.
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024
PERF 421 Production Lab V 0.5-1 Hours (repeatable max of 2 hrs)
A variable credit experiential learning course designed to provide experience in theatrical production. Repeatable for a total of 2 credits.
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024
PERF 423 Performing Arts Management 3 Hours
A basic study of the principles of management applied to the fields of theatre operation, production preparation and performance that will affect the direction and growth of the theatre.
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; fall 2023; fall 2024
PERF 430 Production Lab VI 0.5-1 Hours (repeatable max of 2 hrs)
A variable credit experiential learning course designed to provide experience in theatrical production. Note: Permission of instructor.
Prerequisite(s): PERF 421
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024
PERF 431 Production Lab VII 0.5-1 Hours (repeatable max of 2 hrs)
A variable credit experiential learning course designed to provide experience in theatrical production.
Prerequisite(s): PERF 430
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024
PERF 440 Performance Lab III 0.5-1 Hours (repeatable max of 2 hrs)
A variable credit experiential learning course designed to provide practical experience in theatrical performance under actual production conditions. Repeatable for a total of 2 credits.
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024
PERF 445 Research in Theatre and Dance 3 Hours
Directed Research in Theatre and Dance. Offered as an independent study course with a theatre/dance faculty advisor.
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
PERF 450 Performing Arts Career Seminar 1 Hour
Prerequisite(s): Department of Theatre and Dance majors with senior standing, or permission of instructor.Prepares senior theatre and dance department majors to successfully engage the application/audition process for graduate and/or entry-level career positions in the field of performing arts.
Restriction(s): Students with a semester level of Academy Junior, Academy Senior, Freshman, Junior or Sophomore may not enroll.
Enrollment is limited to students in Performing Arts (588) , Dance (630) or Theatre (798)
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024
PERF 451 Career Seminar Workshop 2 Hours
A discipline specific workshop designed to accompany PERF 450: Performing Arts Career Seminar.
Prerequisite(s): PERF 450
Corequisite(s): PERF 450
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024
PERF 461 Performing Arts Practicum III 3 Hours (repeatable max of 12 hrs)
Individualized, mentored practical project course in drama, theatre or dance. Repeatable 3 times for a total of 12 credit hours.
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024
Theatre (THEA)
THEA 101 Acting I 3 Hours
Improvisation, theatre games, and introductory scene and/or monologue work intended to develop fundamental performance and ensemble collaboration skills.
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024
THEA 141 Stage Makeup 1 Hour
Fundamental theory and application of standard and character stage makeup.
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2023; spring 2024
THEA 151 Theatre Appreciation 3 Hours
A study of the literary, historical and creative aspects of the theatre. It is designed to develop an understanding and appreciation of the art of theatre from the point of view of the audience. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code E-AH | AH
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; winter 2023; spring 2023; fall 2023; winter 2024; spring 2024; fall 2024
THEA 203 Acting Audition Workshop 1 Hour (repeatable max of 2 hrs)
A developmental studio workshop designed to help students select and prepare effective audition monologues, learn and apply performance techniques unique to the auditioning, and successfully navigate the audition application process. Required of all students needing written departmental recommendation on audition forms. Note: Restricted to students pursuing a degree program in the Department of Theatre and Dance.
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; spring 2023; spring 2024
THEA 204 Portfolio Preparation Workshop 1 Hour
Introduction to the process of compiling design and technical resumes and portfolios for the performing arts fields.
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; fall 2023; fall 2024
THEA 219 Design I 3 Hours
An introduction to the fundamental design concepts, techniques and processes common to all areas of theatre production.
Prerequisite(s): THEA 252
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024
THEA 222 Stagecraft 3 Hours
Students enrolling in this course must also concurrently enroll in a section of Rehearsal & Production. This course presents the fundamental tools, materials and methods of scenery construction. Other topics include stage rigging, drafting and scene painting. Practical experience is gained by assisting with the construction of scenery for the department's mainstage productions.
Prerequisite(s): PERF 120
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; fall 2023; spring 2024
THEA 230 Stage Combat I: Unarmed 3 Hours (repeatable max of 6 hrs)
A study of unarmed violence for the stage including punches, slaps, kicks, falls, and rolls. Classic vs. contemporary approaches to staging violence will also be covered. Repeatable once for a total of six credit hours, only three of which may be applied towards a major.
Prerequisite(s): THEA 101 and PERF 205
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2024
THEA 241 Costume Technology 3 Hours
Students enrolling in this course must also concurrently enroll in a section of Rehearsal and Production. A basic study of construction techniques for complete stage costumes with emphasis on historical costumes for the theatre.
Prerequisite(s): PERF 120
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024
THEA 250 Stage Electrics 3 Hours
Students enrolling in this course must also concurrently enroll in a section of Rehearsal and Production. Introduction to the fundamentals of lighting and sound for the theatre.
Prerequisite(s): PERF 120
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024
THEA 252 Fundamentals of Theatre 3 Hours
An introductory course in theatre. It provides the student with a study of play analysis and its practical application by means of theatre production projects.
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024
THEA 300 Acting II 3 Hours
An acting studio course focusing on the fundamentals of text and character analysis, characterization, and performance.
Prerequisite(s): THEA 101
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2023; spring 2024
THEA 301 Acting III 3 Hours
An advanced acting course focusing on the application of advanced character analysis, characterization, and style to intensive scene work.
Prerequisite(s): THEA 252 and THEA 300 with a minimum grade of C
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; fall 2023; fall 2024
THEA 303 Acting for the Camera 3 Hours
A fundamental approach to auditioning and acting for the camera.
Equivalent(s): BCOM 303
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2023
THEA 306 Musical Theatre Ensemble 1 Hour (repeatable max of 8 hrs)
Musical theatre vocal ensemble. Repeatable seven times for a total of eight credit hours.
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; fall 2023; fall 2024
THEA 307 Musical Theatre Workshop I 3 Hours (repeatable max of 9 hrs)
Practice in integrating singing, acting, and movement using musical theatre repertoire from 1920 to present.
Prerequisite(s): THEA 101
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2023; fall 2024
THEA 311 Stage Management 3 Hours
Theoretical grounding and practical training in stage management.
Prerequisite(s): PERF 120 with a minimum grade of C
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; fall 2023; fall 2024
THEA 312 Stage Management Practicum 3 Hours
Requires a concurrent stage management assignment.A practical application course designed to dovetail with an actual stage management assignment providing theoretical grounding and practical "on-the-job" experience in stage management.
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
THEA 319 Design II 3 Hours
Application of fundamental design concepts and techniques to the design of scenery, costumes and lighting for the theatre.
Prerequisite(s): THEA 219
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; fall 2024
THEA 322 Stage Design 3 Hours
This course presents basic principles for designing theatre scenery. The student will create designs for three plays, including one complete design with drafting, sketches and a model.
Prerequisite(s): THEA 222 with a minimum grade of C and THEA 319 with a minimum grade of C
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2024
THEA 323 Period Styles in Design 3 Hours
The study of aesthetic styles as general artistic principles and in costume and decor applications. Emphasis on design as communication across cultures and time periods. No prerequisites required, but taking an introductory art and/or design course in any field before taking this course is recommended. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code K-SC
Prerequisite(s): 21 hours of Foundations and Explorations Courses, or junior status
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2023; spring 2024
THEA 324 Applied Vocal Styles I 1 Hour (repeatable max of 4 hrs)
Topic-based individual or small group instruction in applied vocal styles for the theatre. Note: Restricted to students pursuing a BFA Performing Arts-Musical Theatre concentration with at least sophomore standing.
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024
THEA 325 Theatre in Education 3 Hours
An overview of strategies for teaching theatre to students in grades K-12. Topics covered include curriculum development, creative dramatics, arts integration, and assessment.
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; fall 2023; fall 2024
THEA 330 Stage Combat II 3 Hours (repeatable max of 9 hrs)
Staged swordplay technique and choreography featuring single rapier.
Prerequisite(s): THEA 230
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
THEA 341 Culture and Performance 3 Hours
An exploration of how dramatic works reflect, challenge and influence cultural norms and how performance can identify and address social problems. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code K-SC
Prerequisite(s): 21 hours of Foundations and Explorations Courses, or junior status
Recent Term(s) Offered: winter 2023; spring 2023; winter 2024; spring 2024; fall 2024
THEA 358 Drama Writing 3 Hours
A concentrated study of the techniques of drama writing emphasizing contemporary theory and practice.
Prerequisite(s): ENG 200 and ENG 203 or ENGL 203C
Equivalent(s): ENG 358
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2023; spring 2024
THEA 363 World Theatre History I 3 Hours
A study of influential, worldwide theatrical movements, ideas, technologies and personalities that shaped the development of theatre from origin theories through 17th century.
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; fall 2023; fall 2024
THEA 364 World Theatre History II 3 Hours
A study of influential, worldwide theatrical movements, ideas, technologies and personalities that shaped the development of theatre from the 18th century to the present.
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2023
THEA 365 U.S. Theatre History 3 Hours
Survey of U.S. theatre history, with a focus on the 20th century to the present.
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2024
THEA 371 Directing I 3 Hours
A combined theory/studio course designed to provide both a theoretical framework and practical experience with the stage director's pre-production process, including: dramaturgical research and analysis, production conceptualization, promptbook preparation, the fundamentals of stage composition, organic blocking and the director/designer collaboration.
Prerequisite(s): THEA 252
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2023; spring 2024
THEA 375 Topics in Drama 3 Hours (repeatable max of 9 hrs)
Topics-based course focusing on a particular area of dramatic theory and/or literature.
Prerequisite(s): (THEA 252 or ENG 354 or ENG 355)
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024
THEA 380 Directing II 3 Hours
Applied practice in ground-plan development and implementation, organic blocking, coaching actors, and rehearsal management.
Prerequisite(s): THEA 371
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2023; spring 2024
THEA 385 Applied Vocal Styles II 1 Hour (repeatable max of 6 hrs)
Topic based individual or small group instruction in applied vocal styles for the theatre.
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024
THEA 391 Theatre for Young Audiences 3 Hours
An examination of the selection, preparation, and presentation of plays for children. Emphasis on analysis of plays for young audiences, script sources and production planning.
Prerequisite(s): THEA 252
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
THEA 392 Production of Theatre for Children 3 Hours (repeatable max of 27 hrs)
A practical application of children's theatre training by means of a traveling children's theatre production company performing on campus and in the surrounding area.
Prerequisite(s): THEA 371 and THEA 372 and THEA 391
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022
THEA 401 Period Styles Lab 3 Hours
Intensive, collaborative scenework, focusing on the special demands of analyzing, conceptualizing and performing period plays, with an emphasis on verse drama.
Prerequisite(s): (THEA 301 or THEA 371)
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
THEA 407 Musical Theatre Workshop II 3 Hours (repeatable max of 9 hrs)
A continuation of musical theatre study begun in THEA 307, this course offers advanced character study for both songs and scenes in the American musical theatre repertoire from 1920 to present.
Prerequisite(s): THEA 307
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2023; fall 2024
THEA 410 Playing Shakespeare 3 Hours (repeatable max of 6 hrs)
Advanced acting course focusing on the application of performance and characterization skills in the performance of Shakespearean/Jacobean dramatic literature.
Prerequisite(s): THEA 301
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2023; fall 2024
THEA 412 Special Topics in Acting 3 Hours (repeatable max of 9 hrs)
Topics-based course focusing on a particular area of advanced acting craftsmanship.
Prerequisite(s): THEA 301
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024
THEA 414 Acting IV 3 Hours (repeatable max of 9 hrs)
Advanced scene style focusing on collaboration skills and working with directors.
Prerequisite(s): THEA 301
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2023; spring 2024
THEA 422 Stage Lighting Design 3 Hours
Lighting equipment is demonstrated and the student is provided practical experience in working with lights for the major productions, at a time other than the class period. Each student will design the lighting for a full-length play.
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2023
THEA 424 Topics in Design and Technical Theatre 3 Hours (repeatable max of 15 hrs)
Repeatable once with a different topic. A special-problems course for advanced study in the area of technical theatre: scenery, costume, lighting and sound. The topic and project organization are to be submitted by the student and approved by the faculty during the semester prior to the project.
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024
THEA 425 Play Production in the Schools 3 Hours
Offers practical instruction in the fundamentals of theatrical production at the secondary school level. Emphasis on providing current and future teachers with resource materials and practical solutions to the challenge of producing and directing high quality theatre in the schools.
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2023; spring 2024
THEA 430 Musical Theatre History 3 Hours
Survey of U.S. musical theatre history from the 18th century to the present, with an emphasis on the 20th century to the present. Note: Permission of instructor.
Prerequisite(s): THEA 252
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2023; fall 2024
THEA 431 Musical Theatre Repertoire 3 Hours
A performance-based study of musical theatre repertoire and vocal styles from 1920 to present day using both scripts and scores. Performance work will occur in solo and small group settings. Note: Permission of instructor.
Prerequisite(s): THEA 300 and MUS 100 and MUS 350
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2023; spring 2024
THEA 441 Costume Design 3 Hours
An advanced course for theatre majors as well as those interested in understanding the concept of costuming. Emphasis is placed upon the historical and practical aspects of theatrical costume design.
Prerequisite(s): THEA 319
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2023
THEA 499 Studies in British Theatre 3 Hours
A study of the British theatre highlighted by a tour to England and viewing of representational plays of the English theatre, including visitations to supplementary historical and cultural sites.
Recent Term(s) Offered: summer 2022; winter 2023; summer 2023; winter 2024; summer 2024