Course Listing
| THEA 072 F - Movement and Performance Skills for One hour lecture and one hour laboratory per week. | This exciting summer theatre program is an in-depth analysis and application of the techniques and skills necessary for the creation of, and execution of, choreography for Musical Theatre. Emphasis is on analyzing and performing a variety of styles, culminating in a fully staged performance. Course may be taken four times for credit. (Non-degree credit) |
| THEA 100 F - Introduction to the Theatre (3) (CAN DRAM 18) | This course is designed for those students who wish to explore more thoroughly the art of theatrical performance with special attention given to all the contributing elements. This course examines all areas of theatre production through lecture, demonstration, laboratory participation, small-group discussion, guest performers, and speakers. This course prepares the student for other course offerings in the theatre curriculum. Enrollment in THEA 149 F Stage Crew Activity is strongly recommended. (CSU) (UC) (Degree credit) |
| THEA 104 F - Introduction to Theatre Appreciation (3) Letter grade or Credit/no credit option. Two hours lecture and three hours laboratory arranged per week. | A study of the combined elements of contemporary theatre through examination of audience/performer relationships and the organization of support personnel. A study of current and classical plays, with special emphasis on dramatic analysis and cultural significance. Mandatory attendance at a selected group of live theatrical productions required. Approximate cost of semester admissions is $100. (CSU) (UC) (Degree credit) |
| THEA 105 F - Musical Theatre History (3) Three hours lecture per week. | This course explores the uniquely American art form that is Musical Theatre. From its early development in the colonial period to the present time, emphasis will be placed on the chronological examination of various musical theatre productions. Students will learn how the composers, librettists, lyricists, choreographers, directors and designers contribution to the formation and the population of musical theatre as it exists today. (CSU) (UC) (Degree credit) |
| THEA 106 F - Principles of Playwriting (2-2) Two hours lecture per week. | Beginning playwriting as a creative approach to writing dramatic material for stage, screen, and television. Course may be taken twice for credit. (CSU) (Degree credit) |
| THEA 108 F - Multicultural Perspectives in American Theatre (3) Three hours lecture per week. | This course provides students with an appreciation for the historical contributions of Native-Americans, Chicanos/Latinos, African-Americans, Asian-Americans and gays and lesbians to American Theatre. In this introductory class students read and discuss contemporary plays that represent the rich variety of American multi-ethnic and multi-cultural society. This course will explore traditional and cultural backgrounds from which theatre springs, the genre or movement to which a particular play belongs, and the cultural, sociological and political climate in which these plays were created. |
| THEA 109 F - Modern Dramatic Literature (3) Three hours of lecture per week. | This course involves the analysis and research of contemporary dramatic literature. Through the examination of dramaturgical structure, thematic presentation, character development and production design requirements, students will explore how analysis and research can aid in the transforming of a script into a theatrical experience. This course includes play readings, lectures, discussions and student reports. (UC) (Degree Credit) |
| THEA 120 AF - Principles of Acting (3) Corequisite: THEA 149 F Stage Crew Activity (.5 units) Two hours lecture plus four lab per week. | This course is an examination and application of theatre elements that relate directly to the actor including but not limited to criticism, emotion, stage movement, vocal techniques, theatrical terminology, rehearsal and performance techniques and script analysis. Open to all majors. (CSU) (UC) (Degree credit) |
| THEA 120 BF - Principles of Acting (3) (CAN DRAM 8) Prerequisite: THEA 120AF Principles of Acting. Concurrent enrollment: Technical theatre class Two hours lecture and four hours lab per week | Advanced study in the principles and practices of contemporary acting techniques. Students will analyze and evaluate the acting theories of the Stanislavski system of acting, as assessed by the 20th century American acting leaders, i.e., Uta Hagen, Stella Adler, Robert Benedetti, Lee Strassberg, and Boleslavski. Students will apply these principles to their scene work, improvisations, workshop exercises and evaluate their progress and that of their classmates. This class is required for the major. (CSU) (UC) (Degree credit) |
| THEA 120 CF - Advanced Acting (3) Prerequisite: THEA 120BF Principles of Acting. Concurrent enrollment: Technical theatre class Two hours lecture and four hours lab per week. | Continuation of acting skills with emphasis on the applications of stylistic techniques for the classics. Individual exercises and scene work in Elizabethan, Restoration, Greek plays as well as exploration of French farce, comedy of manners, and Chekhov. (CSU) (UC) (Degree credit) |
| THEA 120 DF - Advanced Acting (3) Prerequisite: THEA 120BF Principles of Acting. Concurrent enrollment: Technical theatre class Two hours lecture and four hours lab per week. | In-depth study and practice of acting skills with increased emphasis on the application of the principles and theory of creative acting. Public performance of dramatic literature is required. (CSU) (UC) (Degree credit) |
| THEA 121 F - Movement For Actors (3-3) Two hours lecture plus three hours lab per week. | his course explores movement as an actor’s tool to aid in the acting process and to enhance the actor’s physical ability to communicate on stage through the use of basic movement skills, focusing on physical awareness, movement improvisation, choreography, and stage combat and concentrating on the structure, organization and control of time, space, energy, and sound. Emphasis on the integration of verbal and non-verbal forms of communication focusing on movement and gesture as means to inform and illuminate text. The goal is to achieve the fullest range and clarity of physical and emotional expression of the body as it moves in relation to the surrounding space. Course may be taken twice for credit. (CSU) (UC) (Degree credit) |
| THEA 122 F - Improvisation for Television, Film Theatre (2) One hour lecture plus three hours lab per week. | The principles and techniques of improvisational acting designed to increase the actor’s creativity, problem solving, and performance skills. This course develops student awareness of the importance of the cooperative dynamics of theatre, television and film and the value of the individual actor’s creative process. This course emphasizes individual performance, ensemble work and the development of the actor’s physical, vocal, and emotional instrument as it relates to performance. |
| THEA 123 F - Acting Techniques (3-3) One and one-half hour lecture plus one and one-half hour lab per week. | This course explores acting for the modern stage through scene study and performance. It incorporates play analysis, character development, improvisation and staging. Course may be taken twice for credit. (CSU) (UC) (Degree credit) |
| THEA 125 F - Musical Theatre Performance Techniques (2-2-2-2) One hour lecture plus three hours lab per week. | This course explores the development of the fundamentals of acting, singing, and movement for musical theatre through exercises, auditions, solo performances and full staged scenes. Course may be taken four times for credit. (CSU) (UC) (Degree credit) |
| THEA 127 F - Oral Interpretation (3) Three hours lecture per week. | This course explores the fundamentals of the effective presentation of oral literature before an audience. It includes the study of voice and diction for the purpose of developing effective reading and correct habits of speech. It develops an appreciation of literature through oral expression and a historical overview of literary genres. Recommended for teaching majors both elementary and secondary. (CSU) (UC credit limitation — THEA 127 F and 126 F (both semesters) combined — maximum credit 6 units.) (Degree credit) |
| THEA 129 F - Beginning Voice for Actors (3-3) Three hours lecture per week. | This course will include academic study and practical application of the efficient and effective use of the speaking voice, particularly in meeting the special demands of acting for the stage. Along with a thorough introduction to the International Phonetic Alphabet, study in physical relaxation, breathing techniques, vocal expression, and articulation of general American speech will be covered with attention placed on the individual needs of each student. Stress will be placed on exercises designed to identify and correct breathing problems, diction problems, and to create conscious control of speech function. The theories and principles of the course will be applied in written assignments, oral performances before the class, and through vocal exercises done in class and at home. Course may be taken twice for credit. (CSU) (UC) (Degree credit) |
| THEA 130 F - Acting Workshop (3-3-3-3) Corequisite: THEA 120AF Principles of Acting. Three hours lecture and six hours laboratory per week | A continuation of acting fundamentals with increased emphasis on the application of the principles and theories of creative acting. Additional performance and technical support work in workshop theatre is required. Course may be taken four times for credit. (CSU) (UC) (Degree credit) |
| THEA 133 F - Theatre Practicum (2-2-2-2) Advisory: Admission by audition or interview only. Twelve hours lab per week for nine weeks. | This course provides the study and laboratory exploration of all aspects of theatre production, culminating in a series of public performances. Enrollment is by audition or interview only. Actors audition for acting, singing or dancing roles. Students interested in technical work interview for back stage positions in stage management, set construction, scene painting, costumes, makeup, lighting, sound, and publicity. This course may be taken four times for credit. (CSU) (UC) (Degree credit) |
| THEA 135 F - Resident Theatre Company (3-3-3-3) 8) Advisory: Admission by audition or interview only. Two hours lecture plus three hours lab per week. | This course involves the study and practical development of new and experimental plays. Students enrolling in this course will serve as playwrights, dramaturges, actors, directors and administrative production assistants. Enrollment is by audition or interview only. This course may be taken four times for credit. (CSU) (Degree credit) |
| THEA 136 F - Touring Theatre Productions: Rehearsal and Performance (2) Two hours lecture plus three hours lab per week. | This course presents the rigorous requirements of a touring theatrical production. Students are given the opportunity to participate in one or more activities of the production company including acting, directing, stage managing, design, costuming, lighting, scenery, sound, properties and make up. The company will travel locally, nationally, and internationally depending on the year and circumstances. This course may be repeated three times for credit. |
| THEA 137 F - Summer Theatre Workshop (3-3-3-3) Advisory: Admission by audition or interview only Five hours lecture plus fifteen hours lab per week. | Offered during the summer session, this course involves the study and laboratory exploration of all aspects of theatre production, culminating in a series of public performances. Enrollment is by audition or interview only. Actors audition for acting, singing, or dancing roles. Students interested in technical work interview for back stage positions in stage management, set construction, scene painting, costumes, make-up, lighting, sound and publicity. Course may be taken four times for credit. (CSU) (UC) (Degree credit) |
| THEA 141 A - Introduction to Technical Theatre (3) Advisory: Admission by audition or interview only Two hours lecture plus four hours lab per week. | This course introduces the student to the study and execution of theatrical stage mechanics, scenery, lighting, sound, costumes, makeup, properties and scene painting. Through project based learning, students will learn theatrical design principles and gain practical experience in each technical theatre area. (CSU) (UC) (Degree credit) |
| THEA 142 F - Theatre Crafts Laboratory (1-2, 1-2, 1-2, 1-2) One Unit Class: One hour lecture and two hours laboratory per week arranged. Two Unit Class: Two hours lecture and four hours laboratory per week arranged. | Design, construction, and operation in all areas of scenery, lighting, sound, costumes, and properties. Students are given practical experience in each area of production. Offers a theatre arts major the opportunity to develop confidence in his personal skills and technical capabilities. Course may be taken four times for credit. (CSU) (UC) (Degree credit) |
| THEA 143 F - Stagecraft (3) (CAN DRAM 12) Three hours lecture plus three hours lab per week. | This course involves the study and execution of theatrical scenery with emphasis on construction, drafting, tools, materials and their relationship to the design and implementation process. Students enrolling in the course will be given hands-on practical experience in all the practical aspects of designing scenery for the theatre. (CSU) (UC) (Degree credit) |
| THEA 144 F - Lighting (3-3) Corequisite: THEA 149 F Stage Crew Activity 1/2 unit (11/2 hours per week) Two hours lecture and three hours laboratory per week, plus one and one-half hours per week in Stage Crew Activity (THEA 149 F). | This course involves the study and execution of stage lighting with emphasis on equipment, control, color and their relationship to design. Course may be taken twice for credit. (CSU) (UC) (Degree credit) |
| THEA 145 F - Theatrical Costuming (3-3) (3-3) Two hours lecture and three hours laboratory per week, plus one and one-half hours per week in Stage Crew Activity (THEA 149 F). | Two hours lecture and two hours laboratory per week. Introduction to basic theatrical costuming including design, history, use of sewing machines, pattern making and fabric selection culminating in a final project that reflects the student’s creativity. Course may be taken twice for credit. (CSU) (UC) (Degree credit) |
| THEA 146 F - Scene Painting (3) Corequisite: THEA 149 F Stage Crew Activity 1/2 unit (11/2 hours per week) Two hours lecture plus three hours lab per week. | Introduction to the development of professional scenic artist techniques as they apply to the painting of scenery for the performing arts. Techniques used will include use of brush, roller, spray gun, texturing, rock background, wood graining, wallpaper, masonry, scenic drops and other techniques. The course may be taken twice for credit. Concurrent enrollment: THEA 149 F Stage Crew Activity .5 unit (1.5 hours per week) is required. (CSU) (UC) (Degree credit) |
| THEA 147 AF - Stage Makeup (3) (CAN DRAM 14) Two hours lecture and three hours laboratory per week. | This course will include instruction and laboratory experience in all phases of theatrical makeup. Age, look-alike, stylized, historical period styles, facial hair, corrective makeup and color theory are covered in detail. (CSU) (UC) (Degree credit) |
| THEA 147 BF - Advanced Theatrical Makeup (3) Prerequisite: THEA 147AF Stage Makeup. Two hours lecture and three hours lab per week. | This course is a continuation of THEA 147AF Stage Makeup with special emphasis placed upon masks, prosthesis (foam and liquid latex), hair ventilation, and its use in legitimate stage and television production. Students enrolled in this course are responsible for the coordination of the makeup requirements for the Theatre Arts Department productions. (CSU) (UC) (Degree credit) |
| THEA 149 F - Stage Crew Activity (0.5-3, 0.5-3, 0.5-3, 0.5-3) | Practical lab experience in the technical aspects of theatre resulting in public performances of theatrical productions. Students may choose from such diverse areas as scenery construction, scene painting, costume construction, lighting, audio, property construction, make-up, management, audience development and promotion. Enrolling in .5 units required 27 hours per semester; 1 unit requires 54 hours per semester; 2 units requires 108 hours; and 3 units requires 162 hours per semester. Course may be taken four times for credit. (CSU) (UC) (Degree credit) |
| THEA 150 F - Performance LAB (1-1-1-1)(12) Corequisite: Concurrent enrollment: MUS 288 F BRAVO Song/Dance Ensemble Six hours rehearsal per week plus two and one-half hours per week arranged in rehearsals, studio recording and concerts. | Rehearsal and performance of standard and current commercial music for singers who dance. Accompanied by a small instrumental group, the class includes choreography, staging and microphone techniques. Student compositions and arrangements are encouraged. Course may be taken four times for credit. (CSU) (Degree credit) |
| THEA 196 HF - Honors Creative Arts (3) Three hours lecture per week plus one hour arranged in attendance at museums, concerts, and theatrical performances. | This course explores the nature of creativity through exposure to the performing arts, literature, and the fine arts. Honors students will make independent investigations into the various art forms and apply aesthetic theory to discover interrelationships between genres. Students who receive credit in this course may not receive credit in ART 196HF or MUS 196HF. (CSU) (UC Credit Limitation) (Degree credit) |
| THEA 222 F3-3) - Acting for the Camera (2-2)(3-3) Prerequisite: THEA 120AF Principles of Acting One hour lecture and three hours lab per week. | Study and exercise in the special techniques of acting for the motion picture and television camera. Emphasis will be placed on gaining an understanding of the various camera angles, shots, positions, and actor behavior: philosophies and approaches unique to acting before a camera. Practical work with the camera required. Course may be taken twice for credit. (CSU) (UC) (Degree credit) |
| THEA 225 F - Stage Directing (3) Prerequisite: THEA 120AF Principles of Acting Corequisite: Technical theatre class Two hours lecture and three hours lab per week. | This course is a study of the background and techniques of the director in theatre with an emphasis on practical experience in directing through class projects and public performance. (CSU) (UC) (Degree credit) |
| THEA 235 F - Experimental Theatre (2-2-2-2) Advisory: Admission by audition or interview only Six hours lab per week. | This course involves the study and lab exploration of student directed and produced productions. Enrollment is by audition or interview only. Directors are interviewed and accepted for specific projects, actors audition for acting, singing, or dancing roles and students interested in technical and design work interview for production positions. Course may be taken four times for credit. (CSU) (UC) (Degree credit) |
| THEA 255 F - Theatrical Costume Construction (2, 2) Prerequisite: THEA 145 F Theatrical Costuming Two hours lecture and two hours lab per week. | Continued research and application of costume construction techniques and design elements unique to historical periods and their application to present day costume construction and design. Course may be taken twice for credit. (CSU) (Degree credit) |
| THEA 265 F - Theatre Management (2) Two hours lecture per week. | This course is designed to teach the business of “show business” in educational, community, and professional theatre. Emphasis is placed on the contributions of the producer, production manager, and artistic director and the impact they have on theatre operations. This course is required of all students who are interested in management positions for the Theatre Arts Department productions. (CSU) (Degree credit) |
| THEA 290 F - Theatre Arts Seminar (1-3, 1-3, 1-3, 1-3) Lecture/laboratory hours may vary with credit given. | Various classes designed to meet the interest and needs of students and faculty may be offered from semester to semester. Course may be taken four times for credit. (CSU) (UC Credit Limit depending on content) (Degree credit) |
| THEA 299 F - Theatre Arts Independent Study (.5-2, .5-2, .5-2, .5-2) Prerequisite: All classes listed in specific performance area. One hour conference per week. | Designed for capable students who wish to increase their knowledge and experience in theatre. Unit credit may range from 1/2 to 2 units in any given semester. Consult class schedule to verify credit for that particular term. Course may be taken four times for credit. (CSU) (UC review required) (Degree credit) |
| THEA 900 F - Stage Management (2) Two hours lecture per week. | This course involves the study and the practical application of the practices of the stage manager as they pertain to the theatrical production process. Emphasis is placed on the duties, responsibilities and procedures from pre-production to postproduction. The course is required of all students who are interested in stage management positions for the Theatre Arts Department productions. (Degree credit) |