DR 101. Understanding Theater.3 Credits.
This course presents an introduction to the practices and purposes of theater through attending plays, readings in theater history, dramatic theory and stage production work.
Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, All
UC: Fine Arts
DR 140. Stagecraft.3 Credits.
Stagecraft is a practical, semester-long workshop on the process of transforming a design concept into a workable end. This course provides an introduction to the theory, techniques, materials and equipment of theater technology with an emphasis on the ways in which practical considerations inform the process and product of theater making. Areas of study include set and costume construction, scene painting, lighting, projection and sound. The course incorporates extensive practical work both in and outside of class; and students are required to complete 28 hours of technical production work for the mainstage production season.
Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Fall and Spring
UC: Fine Arts
DR 150. Performance Fundamentals.3 Credits.
This course provides an introduction to the basic vocal, physical and improvisational skills necessary for successful performance in a variety of areas. Skills to be emphasized include vocal support and projection, physical relaxation and focus, diction, articulation and improvisational techniques. Students interested in broadcast journalism, newscasting, public relations and advocacy, as well as more theatrical areas of public performance, learn to work effectively in front of an audience while maintaining focus and energy.
Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed
UC: Fine Arts
DR 160. Acting I.3 Credits.
Students are introduced to the basic principles of acting, including scene analysis, motivation, intention and character work. Students perform exercises, monologues and scenes.
Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Fall and Spring
UC: Fine Arts
DR 181. Improvisational Acting.3 Credits.
This course introduces students to long-form improvisational theater. In this form, actors build scenes from scratch with only a one-word suggestion from the audience. This course is an introductory course and is suitable for students with or without prior performance experience. The semester culminates with a class performance for an invited audience.
Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Fall and Spring
UC: Fine Arts
DR 191. Theater Practice I.1 Credit.
Students complete a minimum 40 hours of production work or related professional experience. Students must obtain approval from the theater program director before beginning their work. Approval is not automatic. Students are expected to articulate how the proposed experiential learning aligns with their post-graduation goals.
Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed
DR 199. Independent Study.1-3 Credits.
A student may, in collaboration with an instructor, create course which focuses on specific area of dramatic study. Internships and work on university theater program productions are possible areas of focus.
Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed
DR 200. Special Topics.3 Credits.
This course focuses on a specialized area of theater study. Past topics have included unique performance approaches, scenic and lighting design and special topics in theater history and dramatic literature. Course may be repeated for credit.
Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed
UC: Fine Arts
DR 220. Voice and Movement.3 Credits.
This course covers practical laboratory work in vocal production and movement, utilizing developmental techniques of Kristen Linklater, Alexander Feldenkrais, Jerzy Grotowski, Michael Chekhov, with special emphasis on individual coaching and problem solving. Studio work also may include techniques of characterization, including neutral and character mask exploration, work with classical texts, and acquisition of dialect skills.
Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Fall
UC: Fine Arts
DR 221. Voice and Diction.3 Credits.
Speaking clearly is a valuable skill that serves the individual in any facet of her/his post-university life. A dynamic speaking voice can convey emotion, captivate an audience and propel a career forward regardless of whether your goal is to become an actor, an on-air personality, a businessperson, a doctor, a social worker, a teacher or a lawyer. Perfecting the skills offered by Voice & Diction helps the student excel in all areas of life in and beyond university. No prior performance experience is necessary. Students who would like to improve their public speaking and communication skills find great benefits from this course.
Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed
UC: Fine Arts
DR 230. Directing I.3 Credits.
This course serves as an introduction to the craft of the theatrical director. Topics include play analysis and interpretation, director's concept, visual composition and the history and theories of directing. Also included: methods of actor coaching, rehearsal techniques and working with the creative team of designers, dramaturges and production staff. As a final project, each student directs a scene that is presented in a student workshop performance at the end of the semester.
Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, All
UC: Fine Arts
DR 250. Stage Management.3 Credits.
This course introduces current stage management theory and practices. Students will learn about the role of the stage manager; read first and second-hand accounts of current practicing stage managers; discover how a stage manager is responsible for the atmosphere of a production; apply theory to assignments and projects; engage in hands on activities to learn the technical aspects of the position, and reflect and evaluate on their personal process. These topics will be presented through readings, lectures, activities, demonstrations, and discussions, and applied through assignments and projects. Classwork will be evaluated through discussion participation, assignments, and projects
Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed
UC: Fine Arts
DR 257. Design for the Theater.3 Credits.
This course provides an introduction to theatrical design history, process and implementation. Students explore the concept of design and what it is in the theater. They read first- and second-hand accounts of historic designers and movements in theatrical design. They examine the design process and apply it to class projects. They also reflect and evaluate on their personal process. These topics are presented through readings, lectures and discussions, and applied through group and individual assignments. Although the main focus is scenic, lighting and costume design, all aspects of theater are explored. This course is suitable for students with or without prior theater experience.
Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, All
UC: Fine Arts
DR 260. Acting for Film/Tv.3 Credits.
This is an intermediate studio course in which students gain experience in the specialized performance skills demanded by the film and television mediums. Students work on monologues and scenes that emphasize truth and emotional reality and receive training in the techniques of Stanislavski, Lee Strasberg and Sanford Meisner. When scheduling permits, students collaborate with a mass communications video production class in filming/taping acting scenes.
Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Fall and Spring
UC: Fine Arts
DR 261. Auditioning for the Actor.3 Credits.
In this course, students learn how to excel at all aspects of the audition process. From how to select and perform audition appropriate monologues, to mock interviews and self-presentation tips, students learn how to succeed. All students are required to complete the course with a headshot and resume as well as two audition-ready monologues. This course is open to all students regardless of major. No prior acting experience is necessary. Students who would like to improve their public speaking, interview and interpersonal skills find great benefits from this course.
Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed
UC: Fine Arts
DR 270. World Theater History and Dramatic Literature I.3 Credits.
In this course, students integrate a multicultural history of world theater with the study of performance traditions and dramatic literature. Participants study the ritual foundations of theater through the theater of the early Renaissance period, emphasizing the importance of historical and literary research in devising actual production concepts for period plays. Students apply their knowledge in active and creative projects. Does not have to be taken in sequence with DR 275.
Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Fall
UC: Fine Arts
DR 270H. Honors World Theater History and Dramatic Literature I.3 Credits.
This course covers the historical development of European theater covering the Classical, Medieval and Early Modern periods. It also examines various types of non-Western performance traditions with a focus on India, Africa, Japan and China. Plays from each time period are read and placed within their historical, political and cultural contexts. The historical development of theater architecture, stage craft, acting theory, and the changing status of the theater artist also is explored. Students apply their knowledge in scholarly and creative projects. Does not have to be taken in sequence with DR 275.
Prerequisites: None
DR 275. World Theater History and Dramatic Literature II.3 Credits.
This course traces the development of European theater from the Renaissance through the late 19th century and the beginning of modern drama. It also examines non-Western performance traditions in India, China, Japan and Africa. Students learn the importance of locating dramatic literature within its cultural, political and historical contexts. The historical development of theater architecture, stage craft, acting theory, and the changing status of the theater artist also is explored. Students apply their knowledge in scholarly and creative projects. Does not have to be taken in sequence with DR 270.
Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Spring
UC: Fine Arts
DR 282. Landscapes and Lenses.3 Credits.
This course will teach critical engagement with the field of theatre through application of social justice theory. Topics will include critical race and gender theory and its application to the American theatre of yesterday and today. This course is ideal for anybody interested in making theatre a more egalitarian and restorative industry. No prerequisites are required.
Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Spring
UC: Fine Arts
DR 286. Script Analysis.3 Credits.
Students learn methods of script analysis that can be used to successfully interpret dramatic texts for performance & production. This skill is essential for all theater practitioners and can be useful to any student who wishes to sharpen his or her analytical and interpretive skills.
Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Fall and Spring
UC: Fine Arts
DR 288. From Script to Stage.3 Credits.
In this course, students study four scripts of plays being produced in nearby professional theatres, such as Long Wharf Theatre, Yale Repertory Theatre, TheaterWorks, and Hartford Stage. Through writing and discussion, students develop their own ideas about how these scripts might be presented onstage most effectively. Then the students and their instructor travel by bus to see each production. Upon returning, students discuss how each production compared with their own visions. Finally, students write reviews of each production they have seen, thereby learning not only how to analyze a theater production, but also how to write a strongly persuasive essay.
Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Spring
UC: Fine Arts
DR 290. Acting for Classical Stage.3 Credits.
This intermediate studio course emphasizes the performance skills necessary to execute a classical role. Students work on monologues and scenes drawn from the plays of the Greek tragedians, Shakespeare, Moliere and the writers of the English Restoration. Students acquire the techniques necessary to speak verse and to physically embody a classical character.
Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed
UC: Fine Arts
DR 291. Theater Practice II.3 Credits.
Students complete a minimum 120 hours of production work or related professional experience. Students must obtain approval from the theater program director before beginning their work. Approval is not automatic. Students are expected to articulate how the proposed experiential learning aligns with their post-graduation goals.
Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed
DR 299. Independent Study.1-6 Credits.
This intermediate level tutorial course stresses independent investigation of a topic in theater/drama selected in consultation with the instructor. One conference weekly; oral and written reports. Course may be repeated for credit.
Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed
DR 305. Theater for Young Audiences.3 Credits.
This seminar course allows students to explore various aspects of creating theater for young audiences. Performance skills in improvisation and creative dramatics, adaptation of fairy tales, folklore and other children's literature for plays, and the integration of drama into classroom curriculum are emphasized. Students conduct enrichment workshops at participating area schools and/or perform for young audiences in staged readings, workshops and/or fully mounted productions. Community outreach and service learning are emphasized. Requires permission of instructor. This course may be repeated for credit.
Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Spring
UC: Fine Arts
DR 307. Drafting and Rendering for Theater.3 Credits.
This studio course explores hand drafting and color rendering for the theater. Students learn to generate hand drafting of ground plans and detail drawings and then interpret these plans into sketches and watercolor renderings. Students use pencils, acrylic paints, watercolor paints and an array of hand drafting tools to communicate their theatrical designs.
Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every other year, Spring
UC: Fine Arts
DR 335. Musical Theater Performance.3 Credits.
In this studio course, students gain expertise in the special skills and techniques necessary to perform in the musical theater style. Each student performs solo, duet and trio musical theater selections with CD accompaniment. (Music is provided; however, students may choose a different solo piece, provided they have the accompaniment track or access to a pianist.) As a culminating exercise, students select pieces drawn from the semester's performance exercises, and these pieces are performed with appropriate costumes, props and choreography in a public cabaret setting.
Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Spring
UC: Fine Arts
DR 340. Scenic Design.3 Credits.
This class provides an introduction to the world of scenic design. Through discussion, reading, lecture and demonstration, participants explore the theory and practice of designing for the stage. Using this as a base, students research, sketch, paint and model designs for two plays. By investigating the design process in both an academic and hands-on manner, students gain knowledge in the area of scenic design as well as generally improving their problem-solving skills. Students are expected to purchase materials for sketching and model making.
Prerequisites: Take 1 DR course.
Offered: Every other year, Fall
UC: Fine Arts
DR 341. Lighting Design for the Theater.3 Credits.
This course provides hands-on experience with the technical and design elements of stage lighting. Students use equipment and techniques directly relating to the theatrical productions scheduled in a given semester, using an artistic and collaborative approach and working with lighting systems in a theater.
Prerequisites: Take DR 140 or DR 257.
Offered: Every other year, Spring
UC: Fine Arts
DR 342. Costume Design.3 Credits.
This course provides an introduction to the theory, techniques, materials and equipment of costuming. Participants focus on costume construction, fabric, fasteners, sewing machine use, dyeing techniques and costume design. Extensive practical work is completed on an individual student basis. Students participate in costume construction for two productions during the semester.
Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every other year, Fall
UC: Fine Arts
DR 345. Dance for the Musical Theater.3 Credits.
Students learn musical theater dance styles and choreography through studio performance. As a culminating exercise, students select dance pieces to perform with appropriate costumes, props and choreography in a cabaret setting open to the public.
Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Fall
UC: Fine Arts
DR 350. Playwriting: The Ten-Minute Play.3 Credits.
This course centers on the 10-minute play. Students develop their own unique styles and strategies for writing short plays. In addition to writing their own plays,students complete a series of writing exercises designed to develop specific skills. The semester culminates with a public reading of each student's best work.
Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Fall
UC: Fine Arts
DR 360. Acting II.3 Credits.
In this studio course, student actors use exercises in acting technique to deepen and refine their ability to create reality on stage. Students explore the skills necessary to create a sense of truth on stage, beginning with scene analysis and enhanced by weekly in-class scene showings. Discussions on reading written by industry leaders focus on how to apply performance techniques to students' individual scenes and daily lives.
Prerequisites: Take DR 160.
Offered: As needed
UC: Fine Arts
DR 370. Internship, Conservatory or Professional Experience.3 Credits.
Senior theater majors are required to complete a minimum of 120 hours at an internship, conservatory or professional experience in theater or a related field. Students must obtain approval from the theater program director before beginning their work. Approval is not automatic. Students are expected to articulate how the proposed experiential learning aligns with their post-graduation goals.
Prerequisites: Senior status required.
Offered: Every year, Fall
DR 375. History and Dramatic Literature of the Contemporary Theater.3 Credits.
This advanced seminar class encompasses a socio-historical study of dramatic literature and theory from the beginnings of the modern era to the present with an emphasis on relevance to contemporary performance techniques. The course examines such movements as realism, naturalism, futurism, symbolism, expressionism, surrealism, constructivism and absurdism, studying the texts, artists and critics of the modernist and post-modernist movements in an attempt to locate contemporary theater within its social, historical and political contexts.
Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed
UC: Fine Arts
DR 380. Theater Administration.3 Credits.
Students explore the economic, legal and managerial aspects of professional theater. The course examines the roles of producers, managers, agents, house managers and box office managers as well as the responsibilities of marketing, programming, touring, public relations, strategic planning and fundraising.
Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every other year, Fall
UC: Fine Arts
DR 391. Playwriting: The Full-Length Play.3 Credits.
This course centers on the full-length play. Students develop their own unique styles and strategies for writing plays while exploring the diverse techniques employed by the playwrights who have already established a foundation for the craft. The semester culminates with a public reading of each student's best work.
Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Spring
DR 410. Senior Seminar.3 Credits.
This seminar is required for all senior theater majors. Students engage in a culminating project. During their junior year, students work with an adviser to prepare and submit a detailed proposal outlining their project. Approval is not automatic. Projects are reviewed by a faculty committee and students may be asked to submit revisions or alternative proposals.
Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Spring