Theatre Arts

THE193. Theatre Art Select Topic. 1-12 Credits.

Selected topics courses are regularly scheduled courses that focus on a particular topic of interest. Descriptions are printed in the Schedule of Classes each semester. Selected topics courses may be used as elective credit and may be repeated for credit, provided that the topic of the course changes.

THE199. Modular Course. 0 Credits.

THE208. Latin American Drama and Performance. 3 Credits.

A broad survey course introduces students to cultural ideas that influence the development of Latin American performing arts. Viewings and readings provide context for discussions of art within major regions of Latin America.

THE209. Live Theatre Experience. 3 Credits.

Students witness New York City theatre productions and New Paltz productions. Through lectures, discussions, and written assignments, the course examines the appeal and ingredients of live theatrical presentations. Focus will be on plays and musicals, rather than on dance and opera. FEE FOR TICKETS AND TRANSPORTATION.

THE211. Rehearsal and Production. 1 Credit.

This course is designed to give the students a means of earning liberal arts credit for research, execution and evaluation of work directly related to the process of preparing a production for public presentation.

THE212. Rehearsal and Production. 2 Credits.

This course is designed to give the students a means of earning liberal arts credit for research, execution and evaluation of work directly related to the process of preparing a production for public presentation.

THE213. Rehearsal and Production. 3 Credits.

This course is designed to give the students a means of earning liberal arts credit for research, execution and evaluation of work directly related to the process of preparing a production for public presentation.

THE230. Introduction to Acting. 3 Credits.

An introductory acting course designed to increase student understanding and appreciation of the actor and the art of acting.

THE231. Introduction to Performance. 3 Credits.

A practical exploration of the art and craft of acting, with emphasis on the body, voice, and actor’s imagination. This course provides the beginning student with basic techniques and vocabulary through exercises, monologues, and scene work.

THE232. European Drama. 3 Credits.

A survey of European theatre beginning with its foundations in the Dark Ages through beginnings of the Modern Theatre in the early 20th Century. Specific attention will be focused on the evolution of theatre architecture and literature in the western world. Elements of audience, actor, stage scenery and their relation to each other and to the social elements and intellectual environment of these periods are also studied.

THE235. Introduction To Theatre. 3 Credits.

A survey tracing the origin of Western theatre, the evolution of the structure of drama and the component parts of playmaking, experiencing theatre and creating theatre, through lecture, discussion and live performance.

THE236. Play Analysis. 3 Credits.

Play analysis is the study of a critical approach to dramatic literature. The course will focus on methodologies for study and understanding the play as a literary genre in relationship to theatre. Emphasis will be placed on critical analysis of structure, genre, theme, style, character, language, dramatic event and point of view. Discussion of each play will result in an essay based on research of the playwright, research of the historical context of the play and structural analysis of the play.

THE237. African American Drama. 3 Credits.

African American Drama is a survey course in African American and Caribbean Drama. Students analyze historical and contemporary plays and study play production in the cultural context of the United States. COURSE FEE APPLIES TO SOME SECTIONS.

THE239. History of Fashion. 3 Credits.

Students gain a broad understanding of the development and evolution of the art of dress as aesthetic, cultural, and creative expression. Particular focus is given to European dress history and the modern fashion system within a global context from prehistoric times through the first half of the 20th century. Early world civilizations, diverse global cultures and their influences on Western clothing will be explored. The course examines the social, environmental and economic implications of clothing and dress and how this impacts and mirrors the development of human cultures across time and today.

THE240. History of World Dress. 3 Credits.

An exploration of the evolution of dress and adornment from early humans through the present day in culturally diverse regions of the world demonstrating how and why dress is central in the history of humankind. This course will examine themes such as how and why human beings adorn their bodies and how the intimate practice of clothing the body, creative practices, aesthetics, identity and dress traditions inform us about cultural evolution, social, environmental and economic development around the world.

THE251. Foundations: Theory and Collaboration. 3 Credits.

This course explores the synthesis of theatrical theory and practice as a preparation for imaginative and creative work in the theatre. This course builds skills of collaboration, communication, and creative problem solving amongst the students to prepare them for production work in the department while also laying the foundational groundwork for other classes within the core curriculum by incorporating theatre theory.

THE252. Introduction to Theater Production. 3 Credits.

Introduction to basic materials and techniques used in technical theater production. This course will include the study of Stagecraft, Lighting Technology and Audio Engineering techniques in current use. Practical application in departmental productions.

THE253. Costume Production I. 3 Credits.

An introduction to the costume shop, its equipment and its use. Projects to develop basic skills and techniques used in costume construction.

THE260. Introduction to Design. 3 Credits.

A fundamental course examining basic techniques and methods employed in theatrical design. This course will explore the principles and elements of design as applied to scenic, lighting, costume and sound design (Scenographic technique).

THE261. Drawing and Painting for Theatre. 3 Credits.

Drawing, illustration, painting and other artistic techniques most useful to theatre design and technical students will be introduced. Course content will include perspective drawing, color theory, painting techniques, texture and fabric rendering, and figure drawing.

THE293. Selected Topic. 3-12 Credits.

Selected topics courses are regularly scheduled courses that focus on a particular topic of interest. Descriptions are printed in the Schedule of Classes each semester. Selected topics courses may be used as elective credit and may be repeated for credit, provided that the topic of the course changes.

THE295. Indep Study Theatre Arts. 1-6 Credits.

THE299. Modular Course. 0 Credits.

THE301. Theatre Arts Participation. 1 Credit.

Advanced participation in theatre activities; supervised laboratory experiences in the areas of design, technical theatre, management, acting, directing.

THE303. Voice for the Musical Theatre 1. 3 Credits.

A basic course designed to help the singing actor improve vocal techniques used in musical theatre. Emphasis is on performing solo songs from both traditional and contemporary music theatre literature.

THE304. Voice for the Musical Theatre 2. 3 Credits.

Continuation of THE303. Emphasis is on performing songs with partners, ensemble singing and advanced techniques for singing musical theatre for both traditional and contemporary music theatre literature. COURSE FEE.

THE305. Musical Theatre Workshop I. 3 Credits.

Development of fundamental skills necessary for performing in musical theater. Focus will be on individual vocal performance of classical musical theater material, supplemented by movement and scene work, and the development of a portfolio of songs for each student. Chronological study of classic and contemporary composers. FEE FOR PROFESSIONAL TRAINING WORKSHOPS.

THE306. Musical Theatre Workshop II. 3 Credits.

Continuation of THE305 with an emphasis on ensemble performance. Students will perform selected vocal and dance ensemble pieces (duets, trios, quartets, etc.) with other members of the class; exercises, games, and improvisation which deal with problems of blocking, choreography, vocal techniques, timing, and rhythm. An ensemble piece may result, depending on class enrollment.

THE310. Live Theatre Experience. 3 Credits.

Through lectures, discussions, and written assignments, students examine the appeal and construction of live theatrical presentations of plays, attending productions on campus and in New York City. This course succeeds THE209 Live Theatre Experience and, as an upper level course, requires students to read the plays, prepare questions and lead discussion, and submit additional essays.

THE314. Period Styles. 3 Credits.

This course covers material culture (domestic, architecture, decorative arts, furniture, fashion and music), as well as significant points of social history from the late Middle Ages through the 20th Century.

THE318. History of Global Performance I. 3 Credits.

A survey of global theatrical and performance traditions from ancient times to the 16th century.

THE319. History of Global Performance II. 3 Credits.

A survey of global theatrical and performance traditions from the 17th century to today.

THE323. World Drama. 3 Credits.

World Drama provides an introduction of dramatic literature and performance practice from around the world. Students will read an array of dramatic texts from the non-Western dramatic and literary tradition including Africa, the Caribbean, The Middle East, Central Asia, Japan, China, and India. The course balances an exploration of dramatic literature and staging with an investigation of the theories that have affected both the literature and practice of theatre.

THE324. Dramaturgy. 3 Credits.

Introduction to dramaturgy with a special emphasis on working as a dramaturg both collaboratively on a production team and cooperatively within a larger organization.

THE325. Devising Theatre. 3 Credits.

An exploration, through lectures, improvisation and exercises, of the process of creating structured performance vehicles for the theatre. Various methods of playmaking will be examined.

THE326. 20th Century Design. 3 Credits.

An overview of theatrical design in the twentieth century. Emphasis will be on design and architectural styles and artistic movements in the development of scenographic design for theatre and film. The class will be taught through Power Point presentation lectures.

THE327. Race Gender and Performance. 3 Credits.

A reading, lecture, and discussion course about the experience of cultural difference in the United States. Students read theoretical articles about gender, cultures, and identity, and then analyze plays that reflect distinct cultural approaches to United States history and lifestyles.

THE328. Asian Theatre. 3 Credits.

A survey course introduces Asian theatre of China, Japan and Korea. Students study traditional to contemporary Asian theatre and analyze the Asian influence to Western theatre and the Western influence to Asian theatre.

THE329. American Drama. 3 Credits.

A survey of the evolution of American drama from its origins in the 18th century through the 20th century. Selected plays will represent the broad variety of periods, styles, and perspectives of American drama with major emphasis on modern American drama. This course will examine the relationship of American drama to social, political, and cultural forces and its place in the construction of an American identity.

THE330. Contemporary Drama. 3 Credits.

The class will explore developments of the last 10 years in drama and performance and examine the social, political, and cultural milieu in which it was developed.

THE332. Acting I. 3 Credits.

Understanding the basic craft of acting through fundamental technique based on the methods of Stanislavsky and American derivations including Meisner, Hagen, Adler, and Strasberg. Attention to rehearsal process as applied to scene work in contemporary American Realism.

THE333. Acting II. 3 Credits.

Continuation of THE332. Preparation of students who wish to enter the theatre as actors. The class functions as a diagnostic of the actor's strengths and problems, and expands the range of the actor's work to include various classical styles with emphasis on Shakespeare.

THE334. Speech for the Stage. 3 Credits.

Positive conditioning and heightened perception of the entire body as the actor's vocal instrument. Developing a clear understanding of the mechanics of strong, effective voice and speech for the stage, using Linklater, Lessac, and Berry techniques.

THE335. Stage Makeup I. 3 Credits.

Studio course in the fundamentals of theater makeup techniques and design skills as they relate to the creation of characters for the stage. Includes realistic and non-realistic, 2-dimensional and basic 3-dimensional makeups.

THE337. Introduction to Movement. 3 Credits.

An introduction to specific movement and performance skills. This course provides the basics for students to explore, develop and build a movement language and foundation based in awareness and freedom.

THE338. Tap Dance. 3 Credits.

A series of technical basics developed to orient the student to the foundation of tap dance and the progression of sounds that constitute the art of the discipline.

THE341. Dialects for the Stage. 3 Credits.

Exploration and study of foreign dialects for use in stage productions. Initial emphasis on mastery of International Phonetic Alphabet for dialect transcription. Presentation/performance of scripted material using selected dialects.

THE342. Stage Management. 3 Credits.

A study of organizational methods and working procedures currently in use by stage managers in all venues of production. This course will involve practical as well as theoretical work.

THE343. Scene Painting. 3 Credits.

To learn broad techniques employed in scene painting. Starts from realistic style as the foundation for gradually approaching the styles which support the emotional qualities of plays.

THE344. Theatre Management. 3 Credits.

This course is designed to acquaint students with the fundamental principles of managing the arts and producing theatre. Students will learn about the business of theatre and about the basic components of presenting a theatrical event or theatre series.

THE347. Choreography for Musical Theatre. 3 Credits.

Participation in the creation and rehearsal of choreographed movement specifically designed for a musical theatre production, culminating in public performances.

THE351. Drafting for the Theater. 3 Credits.

Studio course in theatrical drafting. A study of the graphic communications language and mechanical drawing skills for the theater.

THE352. Introduction to Computer Assisted Design. 3 Credits.

Computer Assisted Design employing software currently in use by industry professionals.

THE353. Costume Production II. 3 Credits.

Advanced study of the patterns and construction methods used during the major periods in costume history and their adaptation for theatrical costume.

THE354. Scene Design 1. 3 Credits.

The course will explore the complex nature of scene design for Theater, utilize the principles and elements of design, and develop an ability in translating verbal concepts into the visual and graphic medium.

THE355. Costume Design 1. 3 Credits.

The techniques and practices of theatrical costume design, including play analysis, research, color theory, drawing, use of different artists' media, and creative thinking. Class work will result in renderings and other portfolio materials.

THE356. Lighting Design 1. 3 Credits.

An introduction to Stage Lighting Design. Study of equipment and media available to the theatrical lighting designer. Lighting laboratory exercises culminate in basic lighting designs using standard graphic conventions.

THE357. Sound Design 1. 3 Credits.

Application of the elements of design, script analysis, research techniques, digital audio editing, composition & recording to create sound designs for theatrical production.

THE358. Audio Engineering 1. 3 Credits.

Examination of acoustics, basic sound reinforcement system, computer audio playback, intercom & video communication for sound engineers in theatrical production.

THE362. Improvisation and Performance. 3 Credits.

Exploration of the theory and practice of improvisation as a performance form in the tradition of Chicago's Second City. Development of specialized skills, with emphasis on imagination, spontaneity, teamwork, and on-the-spot creativity.

THE363. Scene Study. 3 Credits.

Continuation and refinement of technique begun in Acting II, with intensified application of technique to selected scene material. Content includes understanding demands of text and meeting challenges of different dramatic material. Special attention to scoring the scene.

THE365. Theatrical Movement Technique. 3 Credits.

This course is to further develop the actor's physical and movement skills. It will explore techniques to help the actor better understand physical expression and spatial awareness, and will focus on physicalizing character and text.

THE393. Theatre Art Select Topic. 1-12 Credits.

Selected topics courses are regularly scheduled courses that focus on a particular topic of interest. Descriptions are printed in the Schedule of Classes each semester. Selected topics courses may be used as elective credit and may be repeated for credit, provided that the topic of the course changes.

THE399. Modular Course. 0 Credits.

THE411. Rehearsal and Production. 1 Credit.

This course is designed to give the student a means of earning liberal arts credit for research, execution and evaluation of work directly related to the process of preparing a production for public presentation.

THE412. Rehearsal and Production. 2 Credits.

This course is designed to give the student a means of earning liberal arts credit for research, execution and evaluation of work directly related to the process of preparing a production for public presentation.

THE413. Rehearsal and Production. 3 Credits.

This course is designed to give the student a means of earning liberal arts credit for research, execution and evaluation of work directly related to the process of preparing a production for public presentation.

THE420. American Musical Theatre. 3 Credits.

Survey of the American Musical Theatre from its earlist roots in American popular culture through the present. There is a particular emphasis on the cultivation of its present form through an American socio-cultural perspective.

THE421. Queer Theatre. 3 Credits.

A reading and discussion course exploring queer characters in contemporary theatre. Students read essays about gender and culture, analyze plays and make connections between queer identity, history and socio-cultural movements.

THE432. Acting III. 3 Credits.

Advanced phase of the acting program for those students who have chosen to enter the theatre as actors. Extends the actor's work in character and play analysis, and in preparation of audition materials, resume, pictures, approaching agents, Actor's Equity, etc. FEE FOR PROFESSIONAL TRAINING WORKSHOPS.

THE434. Advanced Voice and Speech. 3 Credits.

An intermediate level voice and speech course that provides the student with a variety of techniques from various acclaimed teachers to further develop their working repertoire of voice and speech tools and skills.

THE441. Directing I. 3 Credits.

The director's analysis of a script, the use of space as environment, the elements of composition and movement, emotional key and tempo, casting, rehearsal techniques, and the director's relationship to the other artists of the theatre.

THE442. Directing II. 3 Credits.

Continuation of THE441 with emphasis upon interpretation, theatrical styles, and the director-actor relationship. Each student's class activities culminate in the preparation, rehearsal, and presentation of a one-act play.

THE453. Costume Crafts. 3 Credits.

Techniques in dyeing, painting and surface decoration of fabric, use of foam and other non-woven materials and millinery.

THE454. Scene Design 2. 3 Credits.

A continuation of Scene Design 1. Recognize and explore the complex nature of scenography for the Theater. Sharpen theatrical sensitivities and develop conceptual design skills.

THE455. Costume Design 2. 3 Credits.

An advanced look at techniques and challenges of the costume designer. This course includes advanced artists' techniques, as well as research, and will result in more in-depth projects than Costume Design 1.

THE456. Lighting Design 2. 3 Credits.

Advanced exploration of the artistic process of lighting design. Study and practice of hand drafted plots and sectionals. CAD drafted plots and sectionals, industry standard paperwork, and boards.

THE457. Sound Design 2. 3 Credits.

An advanced study of sound design. Students will design sound for a play and a musical. Special focus will be on original composition and system design for theatrical production.

THE458. Audio Engineering 2. 3 Credits.

Examination of current techniques employed by system engineers regarding reinforcement techniques for live theatrical events. Emphasis will be on digital audio networking, wireless microphones, live sound mixing technique, and show control programming.

THE465. Senior Seminar: Professional Development. 3 Credits.

Capstone course for all senior theatre majors. Students will focus on preparation for graduate school or entering the professional theatre in their specific areas of concentration.

THE490. Senior Project in Theatre. 3 Credits.

Advanced work on an individual basis, awarded to a theatre major, subject to approval of instructor.

THE492. Fieldwork in Professional Theatre. 3 Credits.

The course is offered to theatre students recommended into the internship program created by an agreement between The College and Middletown Union Local 311 of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (I.A.T.S.E.). Successful completion of this course allows students to make application for membership into the Union.

THE493. Theatre Art Select Topic. 3-12 Credits.

Selected topics courses are regularly scheduled courses that focus on a particular topic of interest. Descriptions are printed in the Schedule of Classes each semester. Selected topics courses may be used as elective credit and may be repeated for credit, provided that the topic of the course changes.

THE494. Fieldwork In Theatre Art. 1-12 Credits.

THE495. Indep Study Theatre Arts. 1-12 Credits.

THE499. Modular Course. 0 Credits.