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Goals
The Liberal Arts Model Major in Applied Fine Arts offers students the opportunity to develop their artistic skills. By taking courses in two or three academic disciplines, students will be able to learn and refine their ability to produce art in several different ways. Students completing Liberal Arts Model Major in Applied Fine Arts will be preparing for a career as an artist or an advanced degree in Fine Arts.
Courses
Fine Arts
This studio course acquaints the student with the language, techniques, and conventions of theatrical set, lighting, and costume design. Weekly assignments will emphasize the development of practical skills.
This course provides opportunities for the musician who seeks to improve technique and musicality through the study of repertoire. Students will identify a specific performance goal and develop a plan to achieve it. Students may retake this course up to three additional times for a maximum of four credit hours.
This course is a workshop in painting for beginning students. Lectures, course projects, and individual critiques in the studio classroom are provided by the instructor. Students undertake a variety of thematic and stylistic approaches using acrylic paints. Available for reference are art works in the Castellani Art Museum.
This course is an intermediate workshop for students who have successfully completed FAA 170. Each student pursues one theme, creating a series of acrylic paintings in the studio classroom under the instructor's supervision.
A studio course in the history of hand papermaking and its use as an art form for beginning and advanced students. Lecture, slides, and examination of handmade papers illustrate and explain the history and methods of paper production. Demonstration and hands-on experience facilitate the exploration of the nature and techniques of making paper by hand. Basic vocabulary and art/design principles are stressed.
This course deals with the complex art scene following the French Revolution of 1789. Styles examined are neo-classicism, romanticism, realism at mid-century, and impressionism at the close. Students learn about major painters and sculptors while developing visual literacy. Videos, slides, lecture-discussion and museum visiting are included.
This course studies the aesthetic and social revolutions of modern art that began in the 19th century but erupted in Fauvism in 1905 Paris. Cubism, Futurism, Dadaism and Surrealism are examined, as well as the art scene in America up to the 1960's. Videos, slides, lecture-discussion and visits to the Castellani Art Museum are included.
A survey course designed to develop an appreciation of Western music and its relationship to culture throughout history. Selected works illustrate various musical elements from early beginnings to the present. Some attention is given to the development of vocal, instrumental and electronic music.
A study of music made or used by the people of the Americas and United States, from its Native American and Colonial beginnings to the present. Works studied illustrate how culture is represented in American music's pluralism. Some attention is given to the development of jazz, musical theatre, popular and avant-garde music as American expressions.
Students will be given the unique experience of creating an exhibition of works by Latin American artists in the Castellani's collection from the initial selection process through the various components of publicizing the show, thus introducing the full behind the scenes activities of museum work. The rich stylistic history of the 20th century Latin American art will be introduced week by week as students delve deeper into researching the artwork and museum procedures to display and explain it. This course is taught in English.
The works and lives of modern women artists such as Mary Cassatt, Georgia O'Keefe, Joan Mitchell, Kathe Kollwitz, Sylvia Plimack Mangold, Cindy Sherman, Susan Rothenberg, and Jenny Holzer are studied critically and historically. Gallery and museum visits, lectures by working women artists, hands-on activities such as drawing, a student-directed exhibition of art work, and written work supplement the course.
This course examines the changing face of contemporary art, using the achievements of the 20th century as a context for future exploration. Emphasis is placed on how art reflects cultural diversity, technological innovation, and socio-political issues. The course focuses on the collection of 20th century/contemporary art housed at the university's Castellani Art Museum.
This course acquaints the student with the theory, techniques, and practical application of theatrical scenic painting. The student will gain hands-on experience by painting projects in and outside of class sessions. Projects include scenic paint representations of bricks, marble, wallpaper, wood grain, cornice molding, drapery, foliage and full scale versions of small scale scenes. Lab fee.
This course aims to develop skills in drawing the object, still life, figure, and landscape. An introduction to various tools and media encourages the student to explore concepts in line, texture, composition, and design. Creative imaging is exercised in a final drawing project.
Under the supervision of a staff member, the student selects a major independent theatre project he or she wishes to develop and complete.
An investigation of the equipment and techniques used in modern audio practice to improve and reinforce sound in the theatre and create theatrical sound effects.
This course provides students with fundamental knowledge of the major developments that shaped architecture, painting, sculpture, and the related arts in Western civilization from prehistoric times through the conclusion of the Gothic era.
This course provides students with fundamental knowledge of the major developments that shaped architecture, painting, sculpture, and the related arts in Western civilization from the Renaissance to the 19th century.
A study of painting, sculpture and architecture from the 14th century to the 16th century. The course concentrates on Italian art but includes lectures on Flemish and German art as well. Lectures are illustrated by slides and videos. Students learn to differentiate artistic styles and expand their intellectual understanding of art within society.
Under the supervision of a staff member, the student selects a fine arts studio or research project to develop, create, and complete. With the guidance of the appropriate staff person, arrangements are made for planning, developing, and critiquing the project.
This is a studio course in which the student will learn the fundamentals of costume construction through demonstrations and practical applications. Topics include: taking accurate & precise measurements, hand and machine sewing techniques, proper layout and cutting of patterns, basic construction techniques and adjusting commercial patterns to fit their body. Lab fee.
This course serves as an introduction to the purpose and organization of museums including historical origins, philosophy, and the societal role of museums. Topics will include the acquisition, care, presentation and interpretation of museum objects and an overview of the variety of jobs and responsibilities museum professionals hold.
This class introduces students to the study of folklore (traditional expressive behavior) by focusing on creativity in everyday life. Contemporary traditional arts, ideas, and practices of folk groups in the United States, including ethnic, occupational, regional, and religious groups, will be explored. Topics will include urban legends, fairytales, festivals, and folk art.
This is a studio course which acquaints the student with the techniques and practical application of theatrical make-up. The student will be required to design and execute make-up for specific characters. Lab fee.
This course explores the fundamentals of urban sketching, or drawing on location, as a popular means of artistic storytelling relevant to travel, architectural, and social/cultural issues. Students will develop sketching, ink, and color media techniques unique to observational drawing through exercises, sketch journals, and an urban sketching exhibition.
Students learn the process of costume design for the theatre. Techniques covered include: script analysis, character conceptualization, research, and basic rendering. Art supplies required.
This course will introduce students to the basic skills required to be a scenic designer. The goal of the course is to expose, explore and develop methods of visual communication within the design process of scenic design. This course will introduce students to script analysis, research, drafting, painting, collage and model building. Drafting kit and art supplies required.
An introductory study of the art of lighting for the stage from the initial concept through electricity, instruments, color, plots, and designing for various types of stages.
This is a studio course in which the student will learn the fundamentals of pattern drafting through demonstrations and practical applications. Topics covered include: drafting a basic pattern set consisting of a bodice, skirt and sleeve, manipulating darts, adding fullness and learning how to fit the body.
This course is a study of clothing and the decorative arts (architecture, furniture, sculpture, painting). The historical periods from prehistory to the Baroque and the societies within which they developed will be covered. The student will gain knowledge of the connections between the present and the past in Western culture.
This course is a study of clothing and the decorative arts (architecture, furniture, sculpture, painting). The historical periods from the Rococo to the present and the societies within which they developed will be covered. The student will gain knowledge of the connections between the present and the past in Western culture.
In this studio course students will examine in detail the fundamental construction and application techniques used to create a variety of costume specialties. Sample topics: corsets and petticoats, mask making, jewelry making, millinery, dancewear and men's tailoring. This course may be taken up to three times with different course topics. Lab fee.
The design, creation and use of prosthetics, wigs, facial hair, blood and other special effects are used to create realistic and fantastical characters. Lab fee.
Communication Studies
A first year seminar for majors and minors, this course is designed to orient students to the field of communications, provide an overview of career possibilities and give students a critical analysis of the importance of communication in today's world. The emphasis on the course is identifying the communications values which reflect the theme of the program-communicating for social justice.
This course is designed to give students a more critical understanding of how media function and influence individuals and society. By not taking media and their products ?for granted,? students will be able to better interpret the messages and images they consume. The course will especially focus on the role of television and the new technologies in conveying information, entertainment and larger cultural values.
A specialized discussion of how to communicate through the mass media, focusing on the planning and writing of effective messages for print, radio, television, and web media. For analysis purposes, the student concentrates on journalism and public relations and their communicative and social role in contemporary society.
The course combines a cross cultural history of the communication field with a survey of the main theoretical models advanced to explain the relationship between media and society during the twentieth and early twenty-first centuries. Students formulate positions on the role and effects of theory in daily media practices. (Satisfies Media and Culture Elective)
The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the many uses of writing for informational video including management, employee, and customer relations; training and instructional tools; and community and social issue awareness documentary. Through the development of client- and/or issue-centered video scripts and critique of existing informational videos, students will learn all phases of the message design and pre-production processes. (Satisfies Media Writing Elective)
This course will introduce students to the basics of screen writing. Students will learn to format and write scripts for various types of programming, both long and short form, including narrative comedy/ drama, documentary/reality, and/or promos. The course will also cover how to write preproduction documents such as show treatments and show bibles. (Satisfies Media Writing Elective)
This course provides an introduction to writing for digital environments, with specific emphasis on web pages. Students learn about the history of The Internet, the development of network digital information production/retrieval environments, and the forms and practices of writing for a web page. Activities occur in the classroom and in a web-based online lab. (Satisfies Media Writing Elective)
Students will read and write creative nonfiction from a number of sub-genres, including nature writing, personal essay/memoir, profiles, and reportage, considering possibilities for publication. They will explore the literature of reality from the power of true stories, to the fascination of odd facts, to the revelation of insight. (Satisfies Media Writing Elective)
This course is designed to help students appreciate the nature of freelance and feature writing and the importance of independent journalism in today's media. Students will complete a variety of writing assignments and attempt to sell their work to an appropriate media outlet. (Satisfies Media Writing Elective)
This course introduces students to the many kinds of special interest journalism while conducting exercises in the shared skills required to practice any of them. Students learn about the industry as well as the research techniques, writing methods, ethics, and editing procedures used to practice specialty journalism. Areas of content may change from semester to semester. They will include sports, business and finance, ethnicity, the environment, science, technology and the arts. (Satisfies Media Writing Elective)
This course puts students behind the scenes at the center of media organizations where they make decisions and plan for new programming. The course provides an introduction to the legal, ethical and political environment influencing media institutions as well as the specific practices required of managers. In class based problem solving sessions and through a term-capping special project students execute each of the steps in the procedures of management and programming.
This course is an introduction to the history, basic concepts, and skills of digital media design and production. Through the creation and critique of projects incorporating images, audio, and video, students will gain knowledge of potential careers, acquire life-long production skills, and produce a portfolio of their digital media work.
Sports Broadcasting is a hands-on course designed around the production and broadcasting of sporting events at Niagara University using live, multiple camera production techniques. Students learn the principles, tools, and techniques of producing for live sporting events aired on ESPN and other web streaming platforms.
This is an introduction to the interpretation of cinema. Students learn the cultures, practices, genres, directors, theories, technologies, politics and economics that have influenced the development of motion pictures. Required for the Film Studies Minor.
Basic course in the strategy and execution of advertisements for the mass media. Topics include the history of advertising, relationship to economy and society, organization, selection of media, layout, production and use of advertising appeals in radio, television and the press.
An analysis of the principles and practices of public relations in corporate, institutional and public service organizations including the technical and human relations skills utilized in the public relations profession.
This course provides an overview and critique of mass media research methods and techniques. The research process, a survey of scientifically studying mass media as a human phenomenon is explored. The course will also focus on the particular roles and problems of public opinion research and television ratings methodology in determining mass tastes and preferences. Students will also gain a practical understanding of data analysis.
This course focuses on the acquisition of investigative skills, techniques and ethics used for research and writing in academic and journalistic work. Students apply their acquired tools in a semester long investigation of issues within an International Public Affairs sector. In an ongoing lab setting students interact continuously within an Internet environment. (Satisfies Media Writing Elective)
This is a course in the fundamentals of digital photography designed for students with little or no previous experience. Students will learn basic photographic skills including manual camera operation and digital image manipulation and printing. Photographic history, and visual theory and criticism will be addressed in class discussions and critiques. The course explores the use of photography as a tool of communication and self-expression.
After a detailed survey of the vocabulary, tools, techniques, and conventions of video production, the student is led through a series of creative exercises in both studio and remote video production. Students will learn producing and directing techniques in preproduction, production, and post-production, developing both a critical aesthetic and technical proficiency. Course includes lab exercises and projects in non-linear digital video production.
This course presents a critical analysis of the meaning and function of the mass media and culture in our world. Fictional programming, entertainment and sport media are analyzed for their impact on individuals, society and the media themselves. (Satisfies Media and Culture Elective)
This course will examine contemporary cultural perceptions through a variety of cinematic examples taken from feature films. The impact of film on social, historical, and economic cultural traits will be analyzed. Although the primary focus is cultural analysis, thematic discussion will be coupled with an introduction to vocabulary used in cinema and historical discussion of the evolution of the film industry. (Satisfies Media and Culture Elective, Film Studies Elective)
This course aims to understand the 21st century convergence of cross-cultural forces and digital new media creating a global culture. Three questions are addressed: (1) Where do New Media? come from? (2) How have new media interacted with cultural forms to influence the formation of civilization? (3) How are new media practices experienced and applied in social, environmental, ideological, political and economic spheres of cross-cultural relations. (Satisfies Media and Culture Elective)
This course presents a critical analysis of television and how it impacts our lives. Via in-class screenings, class discussion, and written assignments students will learn the history of television, the business of the industry, and the ways in which a variety of social issues manifest through the medium.
This course is designed as a one-time course to be offered whenever departmental resources are sufficient to do so. It will deal with special topics in the mass media, journalism, or broadcasting according to the research agenda and interests of a particular professor. Topics could include, but are not limited to: ethical, legal, theoretical, and societal issues in the mass media; practical applications of video, photographic, print, and/or computer-based media production.
This course examines the role of communications media in a democratic system of governance. We will look at the media's performance in electoral and other public campaigns, the role of the news media in presenting information on national and global issues and how political themes surface in non-news media genres. (Satisfies Media and Society Elective)
Popular media have given a great deal of attention to the emerging ?Information Age?. This new ?era? is portrayed as distinct from prior epochs in human history. This course focuses on a critical evaluation of the role information technologies play in reshaping the democratic processes and political economy of our society and world. (Satisfies Media and Society Elective)
There are many oversimplified categorizations by which societies make distinctions among their members, including race, class, gender, and age. Such distinctions often lead to an inequitable distribution of political power, social well-being, and the resources available to individual members of society. In this course we seek to increase our awareness and understanding of such inequities and the power of the mass media in creating and potentially destroying them. (Satisfies Media and Society Elective)
This course introduces students to the study of comics as medium and narrative art form. Students explore important examples of comics storytelling, fundamentals of comics theory, and significant comics scholarship. The course may be focused on a particular creator, genre, or topic (e.g., the relationship between comics and other media).
Environmental humanities deconstruct how climate change and environmental issues are represented in different media and humanities content. Students will explore representations of the environment in film and television, literature, social media, music, gaming, graphic novels, news/journalism and others to understand what the environment and climate change mean to our culture.
This course is designed to give a basic understanding of communications and mass media law. Students will examine free speech, press issues and more contemporary topics in a case law format. Students will learn how First Amendment jurisprudence, as well as common and statutory laws, impact media and media producers.
Individual research of a substantive nature pursued in the student's major field of study. The research will conclude in a written thesis or an original project, and an oral defense. Required for University and Departmental Honors students.
Individual research of a substantive nature pursued in the student's major field of study. The research will conclude in a written thesis or an original project, and an oral defense. Required for University and Departmental Honors students.
Traces the development of the motion picture in terms of the interaction between the artist, the inventor and the business person. Considers particular examples of film types and genres to demonstrate how cinema documents cultural change. The style and techniques of various directors, from Georges Melies to Ingmar Bergman are illustrated by screenings and discussions at each class meeting.
Basic course in the strategy and execution of advertisements for the mass media. Topics include the history of advertising, relationship to economy and society, organization, selection of media, layout, production and use of advertising appeals in radio, television and the press.
This course is a continued exploration of the medium of digital photography, which begins where Basic Photography ends. The course includes creative problem solving through alternative photographic techniques, advanced digital imaging, and an introduction to the practices of photojournalism and social documentary photography.
An upper-level course in video production. Student will apply knowledge of production aesthetics and theory in producing short videos. Course covers effective message design, script writing, video production, and non-linear postproduction. Assignments focus on producing videos for non-profit organizations and for submission to various video festivals.
A research seminar designed to evaluate areas of media effects, creative media projects, and critical analysis of media content. Majors will complete an individually designed research or media production project. Oral defense and written documentation will be required.
The media internship is an independent applied experience in the field of mass media. With guidance from the instructor, students are expected to contact an appropriate organization and set up guidelines for working. The course allows students to apply class room knowledge while exploring a professional position in the mass media. Determination of credit hours will be established at pre-registration by the chair of the department in consultation with the dean. Junior or Senior ranking.
The media internship is an independent applied experience in the field of mass media. With guidance from the instructor, students are expected to contact an appropriate organization and set up guidelines for working. The course allows students to apply class room knowledge while exploring a professional position in the mass media. Determination of credit hours will be established at pre-registration by the chair of the department in consultation with the dean. Junior or Senior ranking.
A junior or senior work study program providing relevant paid employment experience. The student must work full-time for one semester. Registration will occur at the beginning of experience. The objective of the program is to integrate classroom theory and practical work experience, thus lending relevancy to learning and providing the student with a realistic exposure to career opportunities.
A junior or senior work study program providing relevant paid employment experience. The student must work full-time for one semester. Registration will occur at the beginning of experience. The objective of the program is to integrate classroom theory and practical work experience, thus lending relevancy to learning and providing the student with a realistic exposure to career opportunities.
A junior or senior work study program providing relevant paid employment experience. The student must work full-time for one semester. Registration will occur at the beginning of experience. The objective of the program is to integrate classroom theory and practical work experience, thus lending relevancy to learning and providing the student with a realistic exposure to career opportunities.
A junior or senior work study program providing relevant paid employment experience. The student must work full-time for one semester. Registration will occur at the beginning of experience. The objective of the program is to integrate classroom theory and practical work experience, thus lending relevancy to learning and providing the student with a realistic exposure to career opportunities.
The independent study elective provides an opportunity to do intensive work in an area of particular interest to the student under the supervision of an individual faculty member. Departmental approval necessary.
Theatre Studies
A course for the performance and general emphasis student comprising a range of separate skills classes, including: Acting-Foundations, Dance and Movement, and Vocal Performance I. Lab fee.
A course for the performance and general emphasis student comprising a range of separate skills classes, including: Acting-Foundations, Introduction to Ballet, Physical Theatre I, and Speech I. Lab fee.
An introduction to the collaborative nature, origin, and general history of the theatre, as well as an examination of the contributions of the producer, director, actor, and design team to the theatrical event. Also presented is an overview of the dominant dramatic forms.
This course is an introduction to the craft of sets, lighting, and costumes for the theatre. It examines the organization of a theatre from the production end and introduces the student to the basic tools, materials, techniques, and procedures used in technical theatre.
A study of elementary theory and sight singing to aid music reading and rhythm. This course focuses on beginning music theory and sight singing.
A study of advanced music theory, keyboarding, and sight singing to aid music reading and rhythm. This course focuses on music theory, keyboarding, and sight singing skills for the student who already possesses a background in music literacy.
This is an introductory course in the basic vocabulary and theory of acting. This course is designed to begin the acting sequence for theatre or non-theatre majors.
This course, a continuation of THR 107, is an introductory course in basic methods and approaches to acting, monologue, and scene work are included as well as the analysis of dramatic text.
A study of elementary theory to aid music reading and rhythm. Basic singing techniques, including breath control, diction, projection, and phrasing are taught, as well as the basic techniques for musical theatre singing.
A study of elementary theory to aid music reading and rhythm. Basic singing techniques, including breath control, diction, projection, and phrasing are taught, as well as the basic techniques for musical theatre singing.
This course studies the exploration and development of movement, gestures, and dance forms common to a basic understanding of dance with emphasis on alignment and basic loco motor patterns. It includes an introduction to improvisation, basic ballroom, and tap dance.
This course continues studying the exploration and development of movement, gestures and dance forms common to a basic understanding of dance with emphasis on alignment and basic loco motor patterns with a focus on pedagogy. This course is a continuation of THR 111.
This course is designed for the dancer with previous ballet training. The class will reinforce the fundamental vocabulary and technique of ballet. It will include body alignment, weight placement, transfer of weight, and coordination. Prerequisite may be waived with prior dance experience.
This studio course acquaints the student with the language, techniques, and conventions of theatrical set, lighting, and costume design. Weekly assignments will emphasize the development of practical skills.
In this course students will learn about the active role theatre, performance, and spectacle play in society. Participants will watch historically important filmed performances, attend live theatre, devise their own performance events, and explore dramatic texts in the classroom.
A course for the performance emphasis student comprising a range of separate skills classes, including: Acting-Shakespeare, Introduction to Jazz Dance, Speech II, and Physical Theatre II. Lab fee.
A course for the performance emphasis student comprising a range of separate skills classes, including: Acting-Shakespeare, Unarmed combat, Ballet, and Vocal performance II. Lab fee.
An elementary study of the principles of voice (spoken) production, articulation, diction, rhythmic variety, and projection as they apply to the actor. Additionally, the International Phonetic Alphabet is taught in order to express sounds of accents of foreign languages as well as distinct American regions.
An elementary study of the principles of voice (spoken) production, articulation, diction, rhythmic variety, and projection as they apply to the actor. Additionally, the International Phonetic Alphabet is taught in order to express sounds of accents of foreign languages as well as distinct American regions.
Through rehearsal and performance techniques and written assignments, students will work with the dramatic texts of Shakespeare to master the performance of classical material.
Through rehearsal and performance techniques and written assignments, students will work with the dramatic texts of Shakespeare to master the performance of classical material.
This course is designed as a continuation of THR 113 for the less experienced ballet student. The class will focus on basic transfer of weight at barre and center; increase of strength and flexibility; and coordination of upper and lower body.
This course is a continuation of THR 114. It is designed to teach the intermediate level of ballet which includes turning, petite allegro, grand allegro, and adagio work. This course is designed to aid in the skills necessary to perform in auditions.
Through this introductory course, students will learn the fundamental techniques, skills, and vocabulary of basic unarmed stage combat to understand the illusions behind theatrical violence.
Students will further develop their performance techniques, skills, and vocabulary in various disciplines of armed stage combat. Students apply these skills by collaborating on the creation of theatre performances using various weapons. Safety is emphasized in each discipline.
This course acquaints the student with the theory, techniques, and practical application of theatrical scenic painting. The student will gain hands-on experience by painting projects in and outside of class sessions. Projects include scenic paint representations of bricks, marble, wallpaper, wood grain, cornice molding, drapery, foliage, and full scale versions of small scale scenes. Lab fee.
An exploration of the basic functions and responsibilities of the stage manager as applied to a variety of theatrical production formats, and the roles and responsibilities of the other various management positions in professional theatre. The management of presentations, events, and productions outside the traditional theatre structure will also be explored.
This course will introduce students to the basics of screen writing. Students will learn to format and write scripts for various types of programming, both long and short form, including narrative comedy/ drama, documentary/reality, and/or promos. The course will also cover how to write preproduction documents such as show treatments and show bibles. (Satisfies Media Writing Elective)
Under the supervision of a faculty member, the student selects a major independent theatre project he or she wishes to develop and complete.
Under the supervision of a faculty member, the student selects a major independent theatre project he or she wishes to develop and complete.
An investigation of the equipment and the techniques used in modern audio practice to improve and reinforce sound in the theatre and to create theatrical sound effects.
The art of jazz dance is studied with an emphasis on proper technique and alignment to develop the dynamic sensitivity of the body to be able to communicate through movement. Specific jazz styles are studied chronologically according to performance trends using basic steps. Students need no previous training.
The art of jazz dance is studied with an emphasis on proper technique, alignment and style to expand the dynamic sensitivity of the body's ability to communicate through movement. Jazz styles are studied chronologically according to performance trends utilizing complex steps and combinations. Prerequisite may be waived with prior dance experience.
This is a studio course in which the student will learn the fundamentals of costume construction through demonstrations and practical applications. Topics include: taking accurate & precise measurements, hand and machine sewing techniques, proper layout and cutting of patterns, basic construction techniques, and adjusting commercial patterns to fit their body. Lab fee.
This is a studio course which acquaints the student with the techniques and practical application of theatrical make-up. The student will be required to design and execute make-up for specific characters. Lab fee.
A course for the theatre major comprised of two separate skills classes, including two from the following: Acting-Shakespeare, Introduction to Jazz Dance, Speech II, Physical Theatre II, Acting-Styles, Tap Dance, Armed Combat, Vocal Performance III, Acting-Synthesis & the Profession, Advance Ballet, and Physical Theatre IV. This course may be taken up to three times with different course topics. Lab fee.
A course for the performance emphasis student comprising a range of separate skills classes, including: Acting-Styles, Tap Dance, Armed combat, and Vocal Performance III. Lab fee.
A course for the performance emphasis student comprising a range of separate skills classes, including: Acting-Styles, Jazz Dance, and Physical Theatre III. Lab fee.
An advanced course in acting styles and techniques, addressing students' individual needs, and work in special periods and playwrights.
An advanced course in acting styles and techniques, addressing students' individual needs, and work in special periods and playwrights.
A continuation of THR 109-110 in which more advanced techniques are explored with a focus on interpretation and audition techniques. Students continue to develop necessary skills for successful music theater performance utilizing the widening body of music theatre repertoire.
A continuation of THR 109-110 in which more advanced techniques are explored with a focus on interpretation and audition techniques. Students continue to develop necessary skills for successful music theater performance utilizing the widening body of music theater repertoire.
This class is geared to the student with some formal experience in jazz dance training. This course engages the dynamic sensitivity of the body to be able to communicate through movement. Specific jazz styles and choreographic formats are studied using basic steps and challenging combinations. The area of dance choreography is introduced.
This class is geared to the student with extensive formal experience in jazz dance training. This course challenges the dynamic and sensitivity of the body to be able to communicate through movement. Specific jazz styles and choreographic formats are studied using complex steps and challenging combinations. The area of dance choreography is introduced,
The accomplished actor combatant will explore advanced techniques in certain martial styles, ranging from classical to contemporary. Emphasis will be placed on organic storytelling and the creation of collaborative performances. Safety is emphasized. Instructor permission required.
This course is an introduction to the field of tap dancing, beginning with basic single, double, triple, and quadruple sounds, simple combinations, rhythmic patterning, and routines. The material is designed for the novice and the beginning level.
This course is an exploration into the field of tap dancing, beginning with single, double, triple, and quadruple sounds, combinations, rhythmic patterning, and routines. The material is designed for the intermediate and advanced level.
Development of practical physical theatre skills: juggling, mime techniques and illusions, and body awareness. Exploration of analysis of movement theories. Performance of pantomime, gesture language, and gestural cartooning.
Practical study of mask play and visual character development using neutral, larval, expressive, and found masks, Simple mask making. Alternative puppetry. Examination of current trends in physical theatre.
An introductory course in the problems and practices of playwriting. Emphasis is placed on the development and revision of a one-act play. Students also are acquainted with opportunities for production and publication.
Students learn the process of costume design for the theatre. Techniques covered include: script analysis, character conceptualization, research, and basic rendering. Art supplies required.
This course will introduce students to the basic skills required to be a scenic designer. The goal of the course is to expose, explore, and develop methods of visual communication within the design process of scenic design. This course will introduce students to script analysis, research, drafting, painting, collage, and model building. Drafting kit and art supplies required.
An introductory study of the art of lighting for the stage from the initial concept through electricity, instruments, color, plots, and designing for various types of stages. Drafting kit required.
This is a studio course in which the student will learn the fundamentals of pattern drafting through demonstrations and practical applications. Topics covered include: drafting a basic pattern set consisting of a bodice, skirt, and sleeve, manipulating darts, adding fullness, and learning how to fit the body.
This course is a study of clothing and the decorative arts (architecture, furniture, sculpture, painting). The historical periods from Prehistory to the Baroque and the societies within which they developed will be covered. The student will gain knowledge of the connections between the present and the past in Western culture. This is an upper division course, not necessarily appropriate for freshmen students.
This course is a study of clothing and the decorative arts (architecture, furniture, sculpture, painting). The historical periods from the Baroques to the present, and the societies within which they developed will be covered. The student will gain knowledge of the connections between the present and the past in Western culture.
In this studio course students will examine in detail the fundamental construction and application techniques used to create a variety of costume specialties. Sample topics: corsets and petticoats, mask making, jewelry making, millinery, dancewear, and men's tailoring. This course may be taken up to three times with different course topics. Lab fee.
The design, creation, and use of prosthetics, wigs, facial hair, blood, and other special effects are used to create realistic and fantastical characters. Lab Fee.
A study of the history and development of dramatic theory and criticism. Tracts and essays from various writers, including Aristotle, Horace, Victor Hugo, August Strindberg, George Bernard Shaw, Bertolt Brect, Arthur Miller, Lorraine Hansberry, Amiri Baraka, Edward Albee, and Tony Kushner among others will be studied and discussed.
This course examines in-depth representative plays of Shakespeare in each of the genres: tragedy, comedy, history, and romance, as well as the sonnets.
An advanced course for the senior performance emphasis student comprising a range of separate skills classes including: Acting-Synthesis & The Profession, Ballet, and Physical Theatre IV. Lab fee.
An advanced course for the senior performance emphasis student comprising a range of separate skills classes including: Acting-Synthesis & The Profession, Advanced Jazz Dance, and Vocal Performance VI. Lab fee.
This course is designed to develop the advanced jazz dancer through the study of complex dynamic styles and combinations. Emphasis is placed on techniques and the importance of rhythms, special awareness, and projection as means of creating variety in dance. Musical theatre history and repertory is introduced.
This course is designed to develop the advanced jazz dancer by a complex study of dynamics, styles, and combinations. Emphasis is placed on technique, the importance of rhythms, spatial awareness, and projection as means of fine-tuning dance. Musical theatre history and repertory is introduced.
Individual research of a substantive nature pursued in the student's major field of study. The research will conclude in a written thesis or an original project, and an oral defense.
Individual research of a substantive nature pursued in the student's major field of study. The research will conclude in a written thesis or an original project, and an oral defense.
This course will concentrate on barre exercises in progressive combinations including: balances on releve, complex locomotive patterns, turns, and jumps. Students will be required to create ballet phrases and demonstrate complex movement.
This course is designed for the advanced ballet student. Class will be taught at an accelerated pace. It will include advanced and complex combinations incorporating jumps with turns, beats, partnering techniques, and choreographic exploration.
A study of the development of dramatic literature and theatrical production, from the Greeks through Oriental theatre to Shakespeare, with emphasis on reading and analyzing representative plays from each period.
A study of the development of dramatic literature and theatrical production, from the Italian Renaissance through the 19th century, with emphasis on reading and analyzing representative plays from each period.
A study of the development of dramatic literature and theatrical production, from 1879 to the present day, with emphasis on representative British and American plays.
This course examines the development of American theatre, historically and dramatically, from Colonial times to the advent of Eugene O'Neill. The emphasis is on plays from the 18th, 19th, and early 20th century theatre.
An advanced acting course emphasizing the synthesis of skills and techniques explored in the previous years of study. Special attention is placed on developing a range of audition material. Classes are devoted to the business aspects of the acting profession.
An advanced acting course emphasizing the synthesis of skills and techniques explored in the previous years of study. Special attention is placed on developing a range of audition material. Classes are devoted to the business aspects of the acting profession.
Practical study of physical character development and visual narrative using improvisation techniques, including contact improv, devised pieces, and articulating visual perceptions on paper. Classical Commedia dell 'Arte characters are explored, using masks, existing traditional scenarios, and modern commedia is introduced through performance of a new adaptation.
The class will apply the techniques of clowning and improvisation to the creation of physically based dramatic narratives. The process will include developing a personal clown, a family of clowns, and a clown play. Audition techniques from the visual perspective and the actor as creator will also be explored.
A study of general directorial problems and solutions: auditions, blocking, pace, rhythm, characterization, composition, picturization, movement, and general design. The student also prepares a short play from the beginning to actual performance.
The senior seminar is an integrative capstone course requiring general theatre students to conduct research on a question or problem in a specific area of theatre. It will be conducted as an independent research effort with each student meeting privately with his or her research adviser. Students will write a senior thesis applying their acquired skills to a central topic, theme, or question.
The Senior Seminar II is the continuation of an interactive capstone course, requiring specialized theatre students to conduct research on a question or problem in a specific area of concentration in theatre. It will be conducted as an independent research effort with each student meeting privately with his or her research advisor. Students will write a senior thesis applying their acquired skills to a central topic, theme or question and present the findings in a forum appropriate to the subject.
This independent study serves as the capstone course restricted to seniors in the design/technology sequence. Students will apply the knowledge and skills acquired over the course of their program to further their individual goals. The topics will be determined by the instructors and will vary by student need.
A junior or senior work-study program providing relevant employment experience. Registration will occur at the beginning of the experience. The objective of the program is to integrate classroom theory and practical work experience, thus lending relevancy to learning and providing the student with a realistic exposure to career opportunities. Students interested in taking an internship or co-op should talk to their adviser.
A junior or senior work-study program providing relevant employment experience. Registration will occur at the beginning of the experience. The objective of the program is to integrate classroom theory and practical work experience, thus lending relevancy to learning and providing the student with a realistic exposure to career opportunities. Students interested in taking an internship or co-op should talk to their adviser.
A junior or senior work-study program providing relevant employment experience. Registration will occur at the beginning of the experience. The objective of the program is to integrate classroom theory and practical work experience, thus lending relevancy to learning and providing the student with a realistic exposure to career opportunities. Students interested in taking an internship or co-op should talk to their adviser.
A junior or senior work-study program providing relevant employment experience. Registration will occur at the beginning of the experience. The objective of the program is to integrate classroom theory and practical work experience, thus lending relevancy to learning and providing the student with a realistic exposure to career opportunities. Students interested in taking an internship or co-op should talk to their adviser.