THA

The course is designed for the college student possessing little or no background in the performing arts, and for experienced performers who wish to brush up on their skills. Course content includes beginning technique, theory, and the methodology needed to grasp the concept of acting. The practice of acting is explored through exercises using imagination, concentration, relaxation, intention, improvisation, spontaneity, and the reality of doing (as each applies to the craft of acting).

Introduction to Theatre explores the fundamentals of the theatre by bringing to the forefront the work of the theatre practitioners -- playwrights, actors, directors and designers -- working in the world theatre today. The course will also examine the social, political, and artistic forces that shape a play in relation to culture and history.

Acting II is an intermediate level acting course that delves more intensely into scene work, and builds upon the basic skills acquired in Intro to Acting. The curriculum focuses primarily on the foundations of Stanislavski's Method, but also emphasizes two offshoots of his concepts - the distinctive acting styles of both Stella Adler and Sanford Meisner. By concentrating on objectives, given circumstances, sensory work, affective memories, characterization, and moment-to-moment work, students will acquire the discipline and framework necessary to create a theatrical performance.

Acting for the Camera introduces the basic concepts of acting for film and television and the specific tools used in the medium. Building upon the basic skills acquired in Intro to Acting, the curriculum focuses on student actors who want to develop skills that will improve their performance on camera.

Introduction to Playwriting is designed to create a supportive and stimulating environment for student playwrights to develop the essential tools necessary to craft plays. The art of playwriting is explored through analytic as well as creative work, including the use of writing prompts, play analysis, re-writing exercises, and play readings. The study and practice of these fundamental playwriting techniques culminate in the writing of a 10-minute play.

This course introduces students to a wide variety of dramatic forms through the study of plays ranging from ancient Greece to modern times. Students will learn to read, discuss and write about plays exemplifying a variety of approaches to drama.

Contemporary Drama focuses on late 20th - 21st Century plays, and the analysis of their theatrical structures from the perspective of theatre artists - playwrights, actors, directors, and designers. The emphasis of the course is to develop the student's ability to appreciate the intellectual and intuitive work required to create a theatrical experience from a written text in today's theatre.