Theater and Speech Courses
THS 100 Introduction to Theatre (non-majors)
An overview of the important elements of theatre, dramatic literature and production. 3 credits
THS 101 Introduction to Acting - 3 credits( non-majors)
A basic acting course that uses games and improvisations as well as individual and group exercises to introduce the student to the acting process. In a supportive and non-competitive environment, the students explore relationships to character and process and examine the specific elements needed to create a stage life.
THS 105 Public Speaking - 3 credits
The handling of various speaking situations through practical speech preparation, from interviews and group discussions to formal platform speaking, is covered. Additional emphasis is placed on voice and diction.
THS 109 Prose and Poetry: Oral Interpretation - 3 credits
Active participation is required in reading works of literature, prose and poetry aloud in class. Students develop their ability to share the rhythm and natural music of selected pieces. This course is an excellent confidence-builder for people who must speak to large groups or for actors working on vocal control and expression.
THS 150 Stagecraft - 3 credits
Stagecraft is a course designed to introduce students to the materials and techniques used in the technical production of a play. It is a lab-oriented course which explores production areas such as scenery, costume construction, lighting and sound.
THS 170 History of Fashion - 3 credits
An historical survey of fashion from the ancients to the 21st Century; students also complete several creative projects involving topics related to fashion.
THS 206 Computer Graphics and Design - 3 credits
The use of graphics and/or computer-aided design software for drawing and design in a wide variety of application areas. The course will cover fundamental commands, graphics primitives, editing, enhancing drawings, output, and dimensioning
THS 222 Healthcare Theatre- Simulated Healthcare Performer 3 credits
In coordination with the Department of Nursing, students study the practical application of acting within the context of healthcare education. Students engage in specific performance and therapeutic communication techniques and portray Simulated Healthcare Performers (SHPs) within live simulation lab experiences with healthcare learners. The first few class sessions explore fundamental acting techniques and introduce the simulation experience with the remainder of the course time engaged in fulfilling simulation requirements, rehearsals, observations, debriefing and feedback sessions, self and peer evaluations, and reflective journaling. The ideal student for this class is self-motivated and flexible. Work in a scheduled simulation is required outside of normal class meetings.. All simulations are observed by faculty. Does not require any previous acting experience
PREREQUISITES: To register for this course students must attend an information session and complete a personal interview. Students must be sophomore or higher.
THS 230 Playwriting - 3 credits
Like all writing, playwriting is a process. In this introductory course students will explore their dramatic voice and produce written dialogue that expresses stories and themes of personal interest to them. Understanding of playwriting is explored through close reading of numerous contemporary plays, in class oral reading and analysis as well as through short writing assignments culminating with each student writing the own one act play. Prerequisite: None
THS 231 History of Theatre: Ancients to 17th Century - 3 credits
A survey of dramatic literature and historical influences. Course content includes extensive play-reading, writing and analysis of periods and style. This course fulfills a WRI-2 requirement .No prerequisite.
THS 232 History of Theatre: 18th Century - 1950 - 3 credits
A survey of dramatic literature and historical influences. Course content includes extensive play reading, writing and analysis of periods and style. This course fulfills a WRI-2 requirement. No prerequisite.
THS 240 Design for the Stage - 3 credits
The various areas of theatrical design (set design, costuming, scenic painting, sound and lighting design are topics offered in a studio/lecture format. No prerequisite. May be repeated under a different topic.
THS 250 Production - 3 credits
Three credits per show toward graduation may be earned by dancing, acting, designing, choreographing or stage-managing for faculty-directed theatre productions. Permission of the instructor or audition is required. ( may be repeated)
THS 251 Practicum – 1-3 credits
One to three credits per production toward graduation may be earned by completing practical application projects relevant to faculty-directed or faculty choreographed productions in the area of sets, lights, sound or costumes. Requirements include a minimum of 40 hours of supervised activity in a specific theatre shop, backstage or on a technical production crew relevant to the production of a dance or theatre event. Permission of the instructor is required. This course may be repeated.
THS 260 Special Topics in Theatre - 3 credits
THS 201 Acting and Directing Workshop –
Advanced projects in acting and directing. The instructor will determine the academic assignments for each student based on their prior acting or directing experience.
3 credits ( maybe be repeated)
THS 335 Creative Drama in Education - 3 credits
The course is designed to demonstrate through theory and experimental projects the uses and implementation of creative drama in any elementary or secondary school curriculum. Practical application to unit planning is stressed. Prerequisites: THS 100 and 120 or declared education major.
THS 340 Design Tutorial - 1-3 credits
Advanced study in specific design areas. Prerequisite: Junior standing, THS 240, and permission of instructor.
THS 390 Independent Study - 1-3 credits
Prerequisites: for declared theatre majors; Junior status required.
