Fine Arts Department
Theatre Arts Courses
(Only Level 3 and 4 Courses are Included in GPA)
Theatre Arts I
FA1018 - 0.5 CREDITS - SEMESTER LONG - GRADES 9-12
Prerequisite:
- None
Theatre Arts I is a performance-based course designed to introduce students to the basic elements of Theatre. Students will develop basic acting skills such as pantomime, improvisation, physical character building, voice work, script analysis and emotional connection. Students will be expected to memorize and perform contemporary monologues and scenes and develop believable characters, physically and emotionally. Projects include performing scripted scenes and monologues, keeping a journal to reflect upon their own work, and reviewing peer performances.
Theatre Arts II L4
FA1419 - 0.5 CREDITS - SEMESTER LONG - GRADES 9-12
Prerequisite:
- B- or better in Theatre Arts I; OR
- B- or better in Shakespeare: Playing the Text
Theatre Arts II is a performance based class that builds on Theatre Arts I to further students’ understanding of acting principles, theatrical conventions, and the role of a director. Students will develop understanding of audition techniques, performance of classical and Shakespearean texts, scene study skills, and introductory playwriting and directing concepts. Students will focus on creating their own acting “method” using exercises from Stanislavsky, Meisner, Hagen, Spolin, Boal, and other acting greats. Projects include performing scripted monologues and scenes, self-scripting and performing monologues, keeping a journal to reflect upon their own work, and reviewing peer and professional performances.
Theatre Foundations
FA138 - 0.5 CREDITS - SEMESTER LONG - GRADES 9-12
Prerequisite:
- None
As an introduction to the theatrical process, students will learn design principles, technical roles and responsibilities, directing methods and theories, and stage and arts management techniques. This course will also explore Theatre History and cover the evolution of theatrical styles and performances from the Origins of Theatre through the 20th century.
Integrated Theater Arts I (Option for L3)
FA136 - 0.5 CREDITS - SEMESTER LONG - GRADES 9-12
Prerequisite:
- None
Designed in conjunction with the Special Education department, Integrated Theater Arts is an introductory theater arts course designed to connect students with diverse learning abilities and backgrounds. The course utilizes Theater to practice and strengthen independence in life skills, such as self-advocacy, collaboration, and social skills. Students will work collaboratively to stage a theater performance, developing acting, directing, and technical theater skills. Projects will include a class performance at the end of the semester, as well as reflections in and outside of class.
Integrated Theater Arts II (Option for L3)
FA137 - 0.5 CREDITS - SEMESTER LONG - GRADES 9-12
Prerequisite:
- Successful completion of Integrated Theater Arts I
Designed in conjunction with the Special Education department, Integrated Theater Arts II is a continuation of Integrated Theater Arts I and is designed to connect students with diverse learning abilities and backgrounds. The course utilizes Theater to practice and strengthen independence in life skills, such as self-advocacy, collaboration, and social skills. Students will work collaboratively to stage a theater performance, developing acting, directing, and technical theater skills. Students taking Integrated Theater Arts II will take on leadership and mentor roles to complete a class performance at the end of the semester, as well as reflections in and outside of class.
Theatrical Ensemble I & II L4
FA243/341 - 0.5 CREDITS - SEMESTER LONG - GRADES 10-12
Prerequisite:
- Limited by audition to students who have successfully completed Theatre Arts I plus one other Theatre offering with a B- or better, or by permission of the instructor.
Created in the mold of theatre companies such as the Wooster Group, the Group Theater, Upright Citizens Brigade and Steppenwolf, this class aims to provide students with an opportunity to create and explore their own work and its relevance to the world around them. This is the third and concluding course in the Theatre Arts sequence.
Using a specific topic chosen by the instructor (such as transcendentalism, the Grecian wars, community issues, One Act Form, 10 Minute Play Form) students will create an original piece of material in a process driven environment. Students will explore how to properly use their bodies to express the emotional and concrete actions of characters, how to construct effective scenes, and how to strengthen their overall craft as theatrical artists. The class will culminate in a performance of these materials in front of a live audience.
Using a specific topic chosen by the instructor (such as transcendentalism, the Grecian wars, community issues, One Act Form, 10 Minute Play Form) students will create an original piece of material in a process driven environment. Students will explore how to properly use their bodies to express the emotional and concrete actions of characters, how to construct effective scenes, and how to strengthen their overall craft as theatrical artists. The class will culminate in a performance of these materials in front of a live audience.