Theatre Arts Course Descriptions

How do you define dance? Where is dance found? How does dance affect you? As we explore this line of inquiry, we will touch on topics such as dance history, theory, culture and documentation. Drawing from a variety of somatic practices and our collaborative experience, we will physically sample approaches to dance and practice noticing dance in our lives.

This project-based course encourages students to explore the variety of artistic capabilities required to create theatre. Operating as both a means to inspire a deeper appreciation of the art form and to provide a foundation for theatre making at Lawrence, students in this class will interact artistically with a variety of short format plays. Through meeting with guest artists and experimenting with acting, playwriting and design, students will understand how play texts serve as a blueprint for performance and often illuminate larger social and cultural issues.

Ensemble Thinking is a system of physical, improvisational, group exercises that provides organizing lenses through which we observe and participate in movement and performance. Using this technique, we will develop awareness and listening skills for relating to others, build a common language, and practice collaboratively creating dances. Through embodied studio investigations, this course introduces students to dance composition.

Contact Improvisation is a partnering dance form that explores movement possibilities created when two or more individual bodies are touching and/or sharing weight, balance or support. The practice of Contact Improvisation encourages the development of self-responsibility, awareness, clear physical communication and a strong, versatile body. This is a rigorous dance lab in which we will experiment with action, physics and listening.

An introduction to the technical aspects of theatre production. Laboratory experience in scenic construction and rigging, painting, lighting, sound, backstage organization, and management. In addition to regular class meeting times, there is a lab component that gives students hands-on application of technical and theatre design.

This is a course designed to build your creative muscle. In the supportive community of this class, we will access your individual story, writing, drawing, movement and voice to create and perform for each other every class meeting. Employing diverse performance techniques and referencing various readings, we will discover and craft our unique inspirations, directions, and experience.

An introduction to the technical aspects of costume creation and production for the theatre. Course includes hands-on experience in costume construction, cutting, draping, millinery, and other costume crafts. Practicum in the costume shop in support of current productions is required. In addition to regular class meeting times, there is a lab component that gives students hands-on application of technical and theatre design.

Based in ReWire/Dancing States and other contemporary techniques, this course will build a movement foundation for the solo dancing body. In the studio, we will work with clarity, speed, and precision to develop a versatile and conscious dancer. We will also explore topics such as performance, intention, and habits while dancing.

Fundamentals of Movement introduces the performing artist, the performing athlete to tactics of care, injury prevention, performance enhancement, and wellness. Through experiential anatomy, fascial training, restorative and preventative somatic practices students actively engage with experiential tools that will enhance and add longevity to their performative careers, whatever performative situation comes next. The course will have reading, viewing, discussion, written and verbal critique, and experiential components. Recommended for students who wish to participate in theatre, opera, musical and collaborative productions as well as competitive sport and athletics.

Physical Practice introduces students to dance as an embodied practice, academic study and a process of investigating and making. This class section explores the basic elements of contemporary modern dance: coordination, alignment, time, space, speed, rhythm, weight, and solo/ensemble practice. Emphasis is placed on moving and dancing a lot, getting sweaty in order to build strength and stamina in the body and mind. The course will have viewing, discussion, written and verbal critique, composition, and experiential components. Recommended for students who wish to participate in theatre, opera, musical and collaborative productions. This course can be repeated (and can be taken by students who previously took THAR 147 under the old title.) Only 6 units of Physical Practice (any type) can count toward the theatre arts major.

Physical Practice introduces students to dance as an embodied practice, academic study and a process of investigating and making. This class section explores the basic elements of contemporary Broadway dance: coordination, alignment, time, space, speed, rhythm, weight, and solo/ensemble practice. Emphasis is placed on moving and dancing a lot, getting sweaty in order to build strength and stamina in the body and mind. The course will have viewing, discussion, written and verbal critique, composition, and experiential components. Recommended for students who wish to participate in theatre, opera, musical and collaborative productions. This course can be repeated (and can be taken by students who previously took THAR 149 under the old title.) Only 6 units of Physical Practice (any type) can count toward the theatre arts major.

A hands-on course offering experience in the proper design and application of stage make-up for students interested in theatre or music-theatre performance. Practicum in stage makeup in support of current productions is required. In addition to regular class meeting times, there is a lab component that gives students hands-on application of technical and theatre design.

Students will study several plays by William Shakespeare selected from among the current offerings by the Royal Shakespeare and other companies. Discussions will address the plays themselves, production techniques, and the audiences to whom they appeal. Students are required to attend performances of the plays under study. Offered at the London Centre. PREREQUISITES: Must be attending Lawrence London Centre

The class will read and discuss plays by contemporary Irish playwrights from Brendan Behan to Martin McDonagh. It will analyse personal and the political issues in modern day Ireland, the question of Irish identities and the gradual social changes since the beginning of the Troubles. Particular emphasis will be on the performance history of the plays, both in Ireland and abroad. PREREQUISITES: Must be attending the Lawrence London Centre.

The class includes poetry, short stories, novels, plays and film scripts which document the cultural and political conflict in Northern Ireland ("The Troubles"). Analysing literature from both sides of the conflict and from the Republic and Ulster, will allow for an in-depth understanding of the socio-historical context influencing these works, and the importance of literature as a personal and political voice. PREREQUISITES: Must be attending the Lawrence London Centre.

This course aims to examine the global success of the British musical by situating its developments within a post Second World War historical context. This course will explore the changes and developments of post- war British society and culture, and how they shaped the emergence of musical theatre as an instigator, reflection and commentary on social and political changes.

This studio-based introductory course examines the interplay of physical movement with verbal and written texts. Using choreographic approaches and improvisational structures, students will investigate how to mine a theatrical text for its range of expression, embodiment, and compositional qualities, and to examine the kinesthetic body as a text.

We present a demystified, participatory approach to the craft of acting. Using the methods of Viola Spolin, students master the fundamental concepts of Stanislavsky and explore acting tools in the traditions of Grotowski and Michael Shurtleff (LU’46). PREREQUISITES: Freshman or sophomore standing or consent of instructor

Directed study follows a syllabus set primarily by the instructor to meet the needs or interests of an individual student or small group of students. The main goal of directed study is knowledge or skill acquisition, not research or creative work. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.

An opportunity for students to apply their theatre skills in business and the non-profit sector on the regional, national, and international levels. Arranged in collaboration with and supervised by a member of the department. Includes readings, discussion, report, and/or portfolio. Advance consultation and application required. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor

Introduction to a critical approach to theatrical performance. Students read play scripts before attending a wide range of plays in a variety of performance spaces in London, working towards a developed understanding of dramatic form. Study of literary and theatrical conventions is designed to enhance students' critical sophistication. PREREQUISITES: Open to students attending the London Centre only

A survey of theatre in its cultural context from its Greek origins through the 18th century. Extensive readings from the dramatic literature of each period supplement the study of the physical theatre and production practices. PREREQUISITES: Sophomore standing or consent of instructor

Topics in this series vary from year to year. May be repeated when topic is different.

This course introduces major concepts, approaches and issues in the study of dance as a cultural, historical and artistic practice. By examining key texts in dance studies, viewing dance films and engaging in the practice of dancing, students will investigate how moving bodies shaped history while considering dance as a form of cultural identity and political power.

A survey of theatre in its cultural context from Romanticism through the present day. Extensive readings from the dramatic literature of each period illustrate the ideas, aesthetic values, and staging innovations that led to the theatre of the 21st century. PREREQUISITES: Sophomore standing or consent of instructor

A survey covering all aspects of visual design for the theatre. Emphasis on the necessary techniques of drafting, painting, and modelmaking, with attention to aesthetic and practical problems of theatre design. In addition to regular class meeting times, there is a lab component that gives students hands-on application of technical and theatre design.

A survey of the evolution of clothing in Western Civilization as it reflects historical events and social culture from Ancient Greece to the Elizabethan England. Hands-on patterning and draping provides an immersive experience as we explore period silhouettes and techniques unique to each period. We will also explore representative plays and theatrical conventions from each period. Practicum in the costume shop in support of current productions is required. PREREQUISITES: THAR 137

Whether preparing to work as a classroom teacher or in an arts organization, students will explore the power of theatre as a means to teach core content. Taught largely through the guided execution of theatre activities, students will participate in and create interactive curriculum. We will explore how theatre engages a variety of learners and research its history of efficacy with English Learners, underserved communities and students with special needs.

Open to students from theatre, economics, and other students interested in entrepreneurship in the performing arts. Topics change each year. May be repeated when topic is different up to 6 total units. PREREQUISITES: Sophomore standing

This seminar discusses how London theatre is addressing diversity with regard to race, ethnic background, gender, sexuality, religion, disability, and mental health. We will see theatre productions at different London theatres, analyze both performances and play texts, and talk with theatre practitioners about their work. In reviews, presentations, projects, and a paper, students will demonstrate their individual engagement with London. Offered at the London Centre. PREREQUISITES: Open to students attending the London Centre only

Proper Stage Management is essential to facilitate the creative process of theatre making. This course covers the proper theory and practice of stage management from pre-production through performances. These skills are useful for all manner of creative and collaborative endeavors: PREREQUISITES: THAR 135 or consent of instructor

Stage properties serve as the way an actor interacts with the dramatic world. properties cross into other areas of design and direction, making them a unique challenge. This class will explore ingenuity, resourcefulness, meticulousness, and creativity. Fabrication techniques from THAR 135 will be expanded to include more material and technologies. PREREQUISITES: THAR 135

Lighting, Sound, and video are all evolving with the advancement of technology. Setting up and programming these systems is more complex and integrated than ever before. This class will cover lighting systems, sound systems, projections, DMX, Qlab, ETC Consoles, and Sound boards PREREQUISITES: THAR 135

This course will attempt to define Fringe Theatre (a movement started in 1968) and to categorize its main elements. The class shall attend a wide variety of plays and venues and come to an understanding of how the fringe has changed over the years. Discussions will address production techniques, the plays themselves, the audiences to whom they appeal, and to what extent the fringe is still an important theatrical force. Students are required to attend performances of the plays under study. Offered at the London Centre. PREREQUISITES: Sophomore standing Must be attending Lawrence London Centre

This course introduces students to the rich theatrical tradition of Russia. The readings for the course span over two centuries, starting from the social comedies of the late eighteenth century to the contemporary "New Drama" and documentary theater. The plays are situated within the larger historical and political context of Imperial, Soviet and post-Soviet Russia. Lecture/discussion. Taught in English.

The Alexander Movement Technique (AMT) is an educational method for finding easier use of self in daily activity. The technique offers us insight into our own mental processes and perceptions of our body’s structure, and allows us to replace faulty habits with coordinated movement. PREREQUISITES: Instructor approval is required. The instructor will talk with each student about the hands-on aspects of the technique and the code of ethics that governs the work.

The playscript is a blueprint for a construction that uses the media of space, time, color, speech, and action to reflect from the stage images of what it means to be human. This course will explore both technical and creative ways to decipher the play text. PREREQUISITES: Sophomore standing Recommended sophomore or junior year Recommended to be taken before THAR 527

This course is designed to equip future educators with a basic understanding of the various details and responsibilities involved in mounting a musical theatre production. Topics include: choosing a musical, rehearsal schedules, finances, stage direction/blocking, lighting, sound, choreography, and pit orchestra. Offered every other year, fall term (even years). PREREQUISITES: Sophomore standing

What constitutes performance and how is performance a site of possibility, discourse, dissension, and connection? Through the lens of dance as a foundation, we grapple with embodying our research and creating action in our campus communities and beyond. This upper-level course is meant to prepare students for their senior capstone and for any students who want to dive into deep research.

In this course we will read excerpts from one tragedian (e.g. Aeschylus, Sophocles, Euripides) in ancient Greek. Our discussion will be supplemented with additional tragic material in English translation and secondary scholarship. Meets concurrently with THAR 444/CLAS 423. Not open to students who have received credit for THAR 444/CLAS 423 or who need to receive credit for THAR 444/CLAS 423. PREREQUISITES: CLAS 225 or three years of high school Greek

We will continue to explore core concepts from Acting I including an exploration of the literary conventions, theatrical practices, and performance demands required of plays from the Greeks, through Shakespeare, and the French Neo-Classists. Students should expect to work closely with scene partners throughout the term. Attendance is strictly enforced PREREQUISITES: THAR 187 or consent of instructor

This course selects from 90 years of filmmaking in Germany. Films range from expressionism to Nazi propaganda and from escapist comedies to avant garde art. Learning to “read” German films critically also means finding out how to understand movies from Hollywood and beyond. Possible topics include “From Caligari to Hitler,” “German Literature as Film,” and “What Makes Lola Run.” Taught in English. German majors and minors may participate in a two-unit tutorial in which discussions and some course readings will be in German.

An introduction to the critical analysis of Latin American and Spanish film. Selected films represent various countries, genres and directors from Latin America and Spain. Readings of relevant film theory, class discussions and composition tasks prepare students for other advanced courses in the Spanish program. PREREQUISITES: SPAN 202, its equivalent, or consent of instructor; not open to native speakers of Spanish.

Practicum in theatre production. May be taken for one or more terms; six terms required of theatre arts majors, three terms required of minors. May be taken by any student involved in theatre production. May be repeated for credit.

Practicum in musical theatre. May be taken for one or more terms; can be used in partial fulfillment of the six terms of Theatre Arts 355 required of all theatre arts majors or the three terms of Theatre Arts 355 required of all theatre arts minors. May be repeated for credit.

An opera/song performance course that develops the fundamental tools to create on stage. This term concentrates on basic acting techniques beginning with spoken word and then transferring those skills to intoned speech (song). These building blocks include understanding and breaking down a script, navigating the stage and movement on it, creating and motivating character choices, response to your fellow performers, honesty on-stage, concentration, imagination and commitment to the script, the environment and your character.

In this course we analyze ancient plays both as great works of literature and as artifacts of a particular artistic, cultural, and political context. Students will read excerpts and complete plays in English from a variety of ancient authors, including (from Classical Athens) Aeschylus, Sophocles, Euripides, Aristophanes, and Menander, and (from late Republican and early Imperial Rome) Plautus, Terence, and Seneca. PREREQUISITES: Sophomore standing or consent of instructor

An opera/song performance course that develops the fundamental tools to create on stage. This term concentrates on expanding the techniques from the previous term and on developing a stronger sense of ensemble work. Viewpoints and Theatrical Composition will be the main thrust of the exploration, using the current song and aria repertoire of the individual student. PREREQUISITES: MURP 361 or equivalent

A study of the the theatrical sound design process for live performance. Students will create and modify sounds and music for plays and musicals. We focus on research, supporting the text, and creating an immersive sonic environment. Laboratory responsibility is required as part of course. THAR 231 required. PREREQUISITES: THAR 231

Examination of and practice in fundamental directing methods, techniques, and historical development. In this course we focus on the directing traditions of Alexander Dean, Dean's contemporaries, and collaborative devising. PREREQUISITES: THAR 187 & two units of THAR 355 or THAR 357. THAR 355 is recommended.

Taking a dramaturgical and geographical approach to explore a deep sense of place, we will use the lens of culture (drama, poetry, fiction, music, film, history and visual arts) to investigate the variegated quality of Ireland's land and its people. PREREQUISITES: Sophomore standing or ENST 150, ENST 151, or THAR 327

Advanced work, arranged and carried out in consultation with an instructor. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.

Directed study follows a syllabus set primarily by the instructor to meet the needs or interests of an individual student or small group of students. The main goal of directed study is knowledge or skill acquisition, not research or creative work. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.

An opportunity for students to apply their theatre skills in business and the non-profit sector on the regional, national, and international levels. Arranged in collaboration with and supervised by a member of the department. Includes readings, discussion, report, and/or portfolio. Advance consultation and application required. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor

Advanced work in directing, design, performance, or criticism, arranged in consultation with department. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.

A study of this uniquely American theatrical form as it develops in response to our culture throughout the 20th century and into the 21st. Ability to read music helpful, but not required. PREREQUISITES: Sophomore standing or consent of instructor

Students will employ the vocabulary and dramaturgical insight we explored in Playscript Analysis to the task of writing for the stage. We will examine important plays in the one-act repertory while each student drafts a 25-40 minute play. PREREQUISITES: THAR 327

This studio-style class applies Alexander Movement Technique (AMT) to performance broadly defined as an activity completed for an audience. Students will work on performance and rehearsal/practice techniques with hands-on guidance from the teacher and will also serve as trained observers for their colleagues. May be taken for 3 or 6 units. PREREQUISITES: THAR 310

An introduction to Shakespeare’s plays and their literary, historical, and theatrical context. PREREQUISITES: Junior standing, ENG 230, or consent of instructor

A study of English comedies as reflections of changing taste and thought in the period 1660-1800. Authors include Wycherley, Etherege, Congreve, Farquhar, Steele, Fielding, Goldsmith, and Sheridan. PREREQUISITES: Junior standing, ENG 230, or consent of instructor

A study of eight to ten plays from the early modern period, excluding Shakespeare. Readings include Marlowe, Jonson, Middleton and Webster. PREREQUISITES: Junior standing, ENG 230, or consent of instructor

Studies in some of the major playwrights in Europe, England, and America from the time of Ibsen to the present. PREREQUISITES: Junior standing, an intermediate course in English, or consent of instructor

An introduction to the major playwrights of early modern Spain and Latin America. Readings include plays, interludes, contemporary dramatic theory, and historical accounts of performance practices. Discussion topics include the ethics of theatrical performance, the construction of gender on stage, and the place of the comedia in the emergent empire. PREREQUISITES: One 300-level course in Spanish, its equivalent, or consent of instructor

We will begin by re-engaging our exploration of Shurtleff’s Guideposts from Acting I and Acting II, then explore approaches from Keith Johnstone and Marina Caldarone in both pre-modern and modern realist plays. We will also explore initial concepts in the Lessac tradition of voice and diction training and safe stage combat. Students should expect to work closely with scene partners throughout the term. 100 per cent attendance and an active-wear neutral dress code will be expected throughout the course. PREREQUISITES: THAR 187 and THAR 347 Acting II

Examination of and practice in fundamental directing methods and techniques. In this course we focus on the directing tradition of Alexander Dean. PREREQUISITES: THAR 187 or consent of instructor; Two units of either THAR 355 or THAR 357

The theory and practice of costume design for the stage, focusing on period style and presentation technique. Laboratory responsibility in the costume shop required as part of course. PREREQUISITES: THAR 231 or consent of instructor

A study of basic lighting theory, design, and technique that enables students to assume responsibility, with knowledge and precision, for designing and executing lighting plots. Laboratory responsibility on lighting crews required as part of course. PREREQUISITES: THAR 231 or consent of instructor

A study of the role of the set designer in a theatrical production from the conceptual through the production phase. Emphasis on values of concept, inventive scenic solutions, and creative research as applied to a number of different dramatic styles. Laboratory responsibility in the scenic studio required as part of course. PREREQUISITES: THAR 231 or consent of instructor

Advanced Design Studio provides emerging designers and intensive learning environment where they explore their unique voice as theatrical designers and gain practical design knowledge through individual mentoring. PREREQUISITES: One of the following: THAR 551, 553, 555, or 557

Advanced work, arranged and carried out in consultation with an instructor. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.

Directed study follows a syllabus set primarily by the instructor to meet the needs or interests of an individual student or small group of students. The main goal of directed study is knowledge or skill acquisition, not research or creative work. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.

An opportunity for students to apply their theatre skills in business and the non-profit sector on the regional, national, and international levels. Arranged in collaboration with and supervised by a member of the department. Includes readings, discussion, report, and/or portfolio. Advance consultation and application required. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor

Advanced work in directing, design, performance, or criticism, arranged in consultation with department. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.

Students enroll in this course during the term they complete their Senior Experience and self-assessment. Projects are discussed with the academic advisor and proposed using the senior theatre projects Moodle page. PREREQUISITES: Senior standing

Advanced work, arranged and carried out in consultation with an instructor. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.

Directed study follows a syllabus set primarily by the instructor to meet the needs or interests of an individual student or small group of students. The main goal of directed study is knowledge or skill acquisition, not research or creative work. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.

An opportunity for students to apply their theatre skills in business and the non-profit sector on the regional, national, and international levels. Arranged in collaboration with and supervised by a member of the department. Includes readings, discussion, report, and/or portfolio. Advance consultation and application required. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor

Advanced work in directing, design, performance, or criticism, arranged in consultation with department. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.