Course Descriptions

Students learn about, and perform, work on theatrical production. Shop and studio work is complemented by lectures and demonstrations on the technical components of a theatre production. Topics covered include: designers and their functions; scenic and costume construction techniques; stage rigging, hardware and material; sound; stage procedures and safety. Simple drafting projects and the ability to read floor plans and stage elevations are stressed.

• Theater
• 3 Credit(s)
• (3) Contact Hour(s)

This course requires students to translate a visual concept into a design for the stage using the principles of composition and the basic elements of design and communicate that design both orally and visually. Emphasis is placed on the following areas of design: scenic, lighting, and costume. Secondary emphasis will be on make-up stage properties, projections, sound design, and the use of computers in the theatre. Work on technical crews for the department's production is required.

• Theater
• 3 Credit(s)
• (3) Contact Hour(s)

An introductory course in acting and performance technique, designed to develop students' awareness of and capabilities in the acting process, and to foster an understanding of theatre as a valuable area of human endeavor. The course will introduce basic communication skills, including physical and vocal presence in front of an audience and will develop acting skill through the use of regular warm-ups, improvisational, imaginative and ensemble building theatre exercises as well as beginning scene study and monologue performance.

• Theater
• 3 Credit(s)
• (6) Contact Hour(s)

This is a performance course introducing scene work from a variety to dramatic styles. Concepts taught include script analysis, creative work habits, ensemble development , rehearsal skills and playing physical actions.

• Theater
• 3 Credit(s)
• (6) Contact Hour(s)

Introduction to Theatre will provide a broad survey of the theatrical arts (playwriting, acting, directing, and design). The course will focus on significant periods of theatrical history identifying important artists and innovators. Students will increase their understanding, appreciation and critical perceptions of theatre by writing a 10-minute play and attending a theatrical production. This course is intended for students in the theatre track. This course carries SUNY General Education The Arts credit.

• Theater
• 3 Credit(s)
• (3) Contact Hour(s)

This course gives students experience in workshopping, rehearsing, and performing for live audiences. Students will prepare a full length play or musical for public performance. In addition to attending a variety of rehearsals, students will complete hours helping to construct the production and are required to participate in the load-in and strike. This course is open to all students including high school juniors and seniors as well as members of the community. May be taken more than once for credit.

• Theater
• 3 Credit(s)
• (6) Contact Hour(s)

Children's Theatre Tour gives students experience in workshopping, rehearsing, and performing for live audiences. Students prepare a one-act play for presentation in the local primary and elementary schools. The one-act play will be built, rehearsed and toured by the members of the class during the semester. This course is open to all students and can be repeated more than once.

• Theater
• 3 Credit(s)
• (6) Contact Hour(s)

The Backstage Practicum provides students the opportunity to participate in the semester's main stage production as a backstage technician, or work for an outside theatre organization in the same capacity. Students can serve as the stage manager, light board operator, sound technician, costume dresser, prop runner, or on the shift crew. Technical positions will vary with the needs of each production. This course may be repeated more than once. The course is open to all students, but permission of instructor is required to insure backstage assignment.

• Theater
• 1 Credit(s)
• (1) Contact Hour(s)

In this course participants study and apply non-verbal techniques to create physical theatre performance. The course emphasizes the use and understanding of facial expressions, gestures, and pantomime. Various mime techniques, including those of Decroux and Montanaro, are taught.

• Theater
• 3 Credit(s)
• (3) Contact Hour(s)

• Theater
• 3 Credit(s)
• (3) Contact Hour(s)