Degree Offered
- Bachelor of Fine Arts
Nature of the Program
The B.F.A. in Theatre Design & Technology introduces the student to all aspects of theatre and is coupled with an extensive breadth of liberal arts requirements drawing from many other disciplines throughout the University. The program is designed for the student who intends to pursue a professional theatre career, graduate study in theatre, or who may choose to enter a related profession where design and technology skills are highly desirable.
The core curriculum in this B.F.A. program allows the student to learn all facets of theatre design and technology. Through upper level courses and elective options students can hone their skills in a specified career path such as costumes, lighting, scenery, sound, or technical direction. Throughout the course of study, students must demonstrate a talent and ability in more than one area of the art form. Training also involves active participation in the production program and the opportunity to design fully-produced mainstage productions. Emphasis on hands-on learning in the theatre and laboratories with state-of-the-art equipment is at the core of the Design & Technology Program.
In addition to completing the required coursework, students enrolled in the design and technology program must participate in a portfolio review at the end of each semester beginning with their sophomore year. Furthermore, additional mid-term assessments may be required at the discretion of the Director or the Design & Technology Program Director. Students must successfully complete these assessments to be allowed to continue in the program.
Admissions
Students must meet all WVU Undergraduate Admissions entrance requirements. Prior to admission into the BFA Theatre Design and Technology program, applicants must successfully pass an interview and portfolio review. The portfolio review consists of theoretical and/or realized production work.
The School of Theatre & Dance will administer these interviews and portfolio reviews typically in November and early spring semester in Morgantown. Additional interview and review dates may also be scheduled. Applicants are to contact the CCA Office of Recruitment at (304) 293-4339 to schedule their individual interview and portfolio review. For more information, please visit our website.
Due to Covid-19 – Admission requirements may differ from what is listed on this page. Please review the most up-to-date program admission requirements for the School of Theatre & Dance.
Admission Requirements 2023-2024
The Admission Requirements above will be the same for the 2023-2024 Academic Year.
Major Code: 2584
Click here to view the Suggested Plan of Study
General Education Foundations
Please use this link to view a list of courses that meet each GEF requirement.
NOTE: Some major requirements will fulfill specific GEF requirements. Please see the curriculum requirements listed below for details on which GEFs you will need to select.
| General Education Foundations | ||
| F1 - Composition & Rhetoric | 3-6 | |
| Introduction to Composition and Rhetoric and Composition, Rhetoric, and Research | ||
or ENGL 103 | Accelerated Academic Writing | |
| F2A/F2B - Science & Technology | 4-6 | |
| F3 - Math & Quantitative Reasoning | 3-4 | |
| F4 - Society & Connections | 3 | |
| F5 - Human Inquiry & the Past | 3 | |
| F6 - The Arts & Creativity | 3 | |
| F7 - Global Studies & Diversity | 3 | |
| F8 - Focus (may be satisfied by completion of a minor, double major, or dual degree) | 9 | |
| Total Hours | 31-37 | |
Please note that not all of the GEF courses are offered at all campuses. Students should consult with their advisor or academic department regarding the GEF course offerings available at their campus.
Curriculum Requirements
| University Requirements | 37 | |
| Theatre Design & Technology Major Requirements | 85 | |
| Total Hours | 122 | |
University Requirements
| General Education Foundations (GEF) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 (31-37 Credits) | ||
| Outstanding GEF Requirements 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 8 | 25 | |
| THET 191 | First-Year Seminar | 2 |
| General Electives | 10 | |
| Total Hours | 37 | |
Theatre Design & Technology Major Requirements
| Theatre Studies | ||
| Select one of the following (GEF 6): | 3 | |
| Acting | ||
| Fundamentals of Acting | ||
| THET 160 | Theatre Fundamentals | 3 |
| THET 170 | World Theatre and Drama (GEF 7) | 3 |
| THET 301 | History of Western Theatre (GEF 8) | 3 |
| THET 302 | Directing | 3 |
| THET 327S | History of Costume and Decoration 1 | 3 |
| THET 328S | History of Costume and Decoration 2 | 3 |
| THET 365 | Traditions of Dramatic Literature (Fulfills Writing and Communication Skills Requirement) | 3 |
| Design & Technology | ||
| Foundation | ||
| THET 103 | Stagecraft | 3 |
| THET 104 | Stagecraft Lab | 1 |
| THET 105 | Costuming | 3 |
| THET 106 | Costuming Lab | 1 |
| THET 113 | Stage Management Principles | 3 |
| THET 220 | Fundamentals of Lighting | 3 |
| THET 222S | Drafting for the Stage | 3 |
| THET 225S | Introduction to Stage Design 1 | 3 |
| THET 226S | Introduction to Stage Design 2 | 3 |
| THET 315S | Portfolio Development | 3 |
| Intermediate Technical | ||
| Select three from the following: | 9 | |
| Intermediate Costume Construction | ||
| Theatre Makeup | ||
| Stagecraft 2 | ||
| Theatrical Rigging | ||
| Stage Properties | ||
| Computer Assisted Design for the Stage | ||
| Rendering Techniques | ||
| Puppet Construction | ||
| Model Building | ||
| Advanced Technical | ||
| Select three of the following: | 9 | |
| Advanced Stage Makeup | ||
| Costume Crafts | ||
| Advanced Technical Production | ||
| Advanced Costume Construction | ||
| Automation | ||
| Lighting Technology | ||
| Scene Painting | ||
| Sound Seminar | ||
| Theatre Health and Safety | ||
| Design | ||
| Select three of the following: | 9 | |
| Scene Design | ||
| Advanced Scene Design | ||
| Costume Design 1 | ||
| Lighting Design | ||
| Advanced Costume Design | ||
| Lighting Design 2 | ||
| Practicum | ||
| Practicum Courses | 5 | |
| Production Practicum (Repeat twice for 2 credit hours total) | ||
| Advanced Production Practicum (Repeat three times for 3 credits hours total) | ||
| Capstone | ||
| THET 401 | Capstone Experience | 3 |
| Total Hours | 85 | |
- *
Actual number of credits will be determined by the number and level of the elected GEF courses.
Suggested Plan of Study Design/Technology Emphasis
| First Year | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall | Hours | Spring | Hours |
| THET 103 & THET 104 | 4 | ENGL 101 (GEF 1) | 3 |
| THET 160 | 3 | THET 105 & THET 106 | 4 |
| THET 170 (GEF 7) | 3 | THET 113 | 3 |
| THET 191 | 2 | GEF 3 | 3 |
| GEF 4 | 3 | THET 144S or 102 (GEF 6) | 3 |
| 15 | 16 | ||
| Second Year | |||
| Fall | Hours | Spring | Hours |
| ENGL 102 (GEF 1) | 3 | THET 200 | 1 |
| THET 200 | 1 | THET 226S | 3 |
| THET 220 | 3 | THET 301 (GEF 8) | 3 |
| THET 222S | 3 | Intermediate Tech Course 2 | 3 |
| THET 225S | 3 | GEF 2 | 4 |
| Intermediate Tech Course 1 | 3 | Elective | 1 |
| 16 | 15 | ||
| Third Year | |||
| Fall | Hours | Spring | Hours |
| THET 302 | 3 | Select one of the following: | 3 |
| Select one of the following: | 3 | ||
| THET 328S | 3 | ||
| THET 327S | 3 | THET 400 | 1 |
| THET 400 | 1 | Advanced Tech Course 1 | 3 |
| Intermediate Tech Course 3 | 3 | GEF 5 | 3 |
| GEF 8 | 3 | Elective | 3 |
| 16 | 16 | ||
| Fourth Year | |||
| Fall | Hours | Spring | Hours |
| THET 365 | 3 | THET 315S | 3 |
| THET 400 | 1 | THET 401 | 3 |
| Select one of the following: | 3 | Advanced Tech Course 3 | 3 |
| Elective | 3 | ||
| GEF 8 | 3 | ||
| Advanced Tech Course 2 | 3 | ||
| Elective | 3 | ||
| 13 | 15 | ||
| Total credit hours: 122 | |||
Major Learning Outcomes
Theatre Design and Technology
Common Body of Knowledge and Skills for B.F.A. Theatre students
Students must acquire:
Technical skills requisite for artistic self-expression in at least one major area of production (for example, acting, design/technology, playwriting, musical theatre) and those skills must be progressively developed to the highest level appropriate to the particular area of concentration.
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An overview understanding of the major aspects, techniques, and directions in the area of concentration.
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Fundamental, comprehensive understanding of the various elements and basic interrelated processes of creation, interpretation, performance, and production.
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Fundamental, conceptual understanding of the expressive possibilities of theatre.
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Knowledge and skills sufficient to work in both collaborative and individual roles in matters of theatre interpretation.
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Growth in artistry, technical skills, collaborative competence, and knowledge of repertory through regular performance and production experiences. Students must have such experiences throughout the degree program.
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Repertory. Students must acquire:
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Familiarity with theatre literature of various historical periods, cultural sources, and modes of presentation.
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Experience with specific repertories and comparative standards of production quality through performance, academic study, and attendance at productions.
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Theoretical and Historical Studies
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Students must acquire:
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The ability to analyze plays perceptively and to evaluate them critically.
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An understanding of the common elements and vocabulary of theatre and of the interaction of these elements, and be able to employ this knowledge in analysis, including analyses of their productions.
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The ability to place works of theatre in historical and stylistic contexts and have some understanding of the cultural milieu in which they were created.
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The ability to develop and defend informed judgments about theatre.
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Technology. Students must acquire a working knowledge of technologies and equipment applicable to their area(s) of specialization.
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Synthesis. While synthesis is a lifetime process, by the end of undergraduate studies students should be able to work independently on a variety of professional problems by combining, as appropriate to the issue, their capabilities in performance, repertory, theory, history, and technology, as well as other fields they have studied.
Upon completion of any B.F.A. professional undergraduate degree program:
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Students must demonstrate achievement of professional, entry-level competence in the area of specialization including significant technical mastery, the capability to produce work and solve professional problems independently, and a coherent set of artistic/intellectual goals that are evident in their work.
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Students must demonstrate their competence by developing a body of work for evaluation in the major area of study. A senior project or presentation in the major area is required in many concentrations, and strongly recommended for all others.
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Students must have the ability to communicate ideas, concepts, and requirements to theatre professionals and laypersons related to the practice of the major field. Such communication may involve oral, written, visual, and musical media.
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Design & Technology
Essential Competencies, Experiences, and Opportunities (in addition to those stated for all degree programs above)
- Ability to conceptualize and realize a design aesthetic consistent with the overall artistic concepts of a production.
- Ability to understand and articulate basic elements and principles of design theory.
- Ability to understand and articulate basic elements and principles of composition related to line, shape, color, texture, and sound
- Understanding of the aesthetic use of color.
- Understanding of the aesthetic use of sound.
- Ability to communicate design ideas and realities to other personnel involved in the production, including directors, other designers, stage managers, and actors.
- Ability to produce and communicate design ideas with freehand drawings.
- Ability to provide formalized, accurate production models and drawings by hand and/or through the use of current industry standard software programs.
- Fundamental knowledge of the total design process, including the progression of raw materials through multiple design “shops” and the roles that various craftspeople play in the creation of a finished product.
- Fundamental knowledge of décor, architecture, furniture, dress, crafts, and art as they relate to various historical periods.
- Ability to demonstrate an understanding of basic engineering principles (electrical, mechanical, and/or structural) as they relate to chosen design specializations.
- Knowledge of federal, state, and local health and safety codes, best practices, and industry standards as they relate to theatrical venues and production elements.
- Preparation and presentation of a professional résumé and a portfolio of design- and technology-related work that demonstrate one’s abilities, strengths, processes, and experiences.
- Opportunities for experience in the design/technology aspects of theatre in a variety of formal and informal settings throughout the entire degree program, including an opportunity to design and/or create the technology for at least one fully realized production that will be presented before an audience prior to graduation.
THET 101. Introduction to the Theatre. 3 Hours.
(Open to all students.) A survey of the nature and function, the arts and crafts, and major phases in the historical development of the theatre.
THET 102. Acting. 3 Hours.
(Open to all students.) Basic theories and concepts in stage acting for the beginning student. Emphasis on the physical, intellectual, emotional, and personality languages of acting.
THET 103. Stagecraft. 3 Hours.
Fundamentals of scenery construction and technical theatre through formal lecture. Requirements include assignments on running crews for Division productions.
THET 104. Stagecraft Lab. 1 Hour.
PR or CONC: THET 103. (May be repeated for a maximum of 3 credits.) Fundamentals of scenery construction and technical theatre through practical crew experience. Requirements include assignments on scenic construction for Division productions.
THET 105. Costuming. 3 Hours.
Introduction to Stage Costuming through lecture and demonstration. Emphasis on the application of basic sewing skills and processes used in costume construction.
THET 106. Costuming Lab. 1 Hour.
(May be repeated for a maximum of 3 credit hours.) Introduction to stage costuming through practical experience. Emphasis on the application of basic sewing skills and processes used in costume construction for Division productions.
THET 113. Stage Management Principles. 3 Hours.
An examination of the fundamental principles that govern the contemporary stage manager.
THET 143S. Freshman Directing Workshop. 1 Hour.
Exploration of the collaborative relationship between actor and director from the actor's point of view.
THET 144S. Fundamentals of Acting. 3 Hours.
PR: Theatre major. An introduction to the fundamental techniques of acting with a focus on ensemble building, action, imagination, concentration of attention, and objectives. Course projects include structured improvisations and exercises leading to beginning scene study in Realism. Pre-requisite(s) and/or co-requisite(s) may differ on regional campuses.
THET 160. Theatre Fundamentals. 3 Hours.
An examination of basic theatre concepts, the roles of practitioners in the production process, and an analysis of scripts in light of major theoretical and critical movements.
THET 170. World Theatre and Drama. 3 Hours.
Introduction to theatre and drama traditions in ten world cultures. An intercultural study of theaters, performance and staging practices, the cultural milieu, and dramatic literature.
THET 191. First-Year Seminar. 3 Hours.
Engages students in active learning strategies that enable effective transition to college life at WVU. Students will explore school, college and university programs, policies and services relevant to academic success. Provides active learning activities that enable effective transition to the academic environment. Students examine school, college and university programs, policies and services.
THET 200. Production Practicum. 1 Hour.
PR: THET 104 or THET 106 or consent. (May be repeated for a maximum of 4 hours.) Assigned theatre projects as an introduction to the elements of theatrical production.
THET 206S. Stage Management Seminar. 1-3 Hours.
PR: THET 113. The practical application of stage managing for a theatrical production.
THET 213. Intermediate Stage Management. 3 Hours.
PR: THET 113. A follow-up course to Stage Management Principles. The course will go into greater depth about stage managing for musicals, dance, and alternate forms of entertainment. Students will practice calling cues to music and choreography. In addition, students will learn to interpret labor law and union contracts, beginning with Actor’s Equity Association/LORT rulebook.
THET 219S. Intermediate Costume Construction. 3 Hours.
PR: THET 105. Study and practical application of costume construction techniques and introduction to pattern making with an emphasis on their applications through extensive hands-on experience with construction projects for division productions.
THET 220. Fundamentals of Lighting. 3 Hours.
PR: THET 103. Fundamentals of stage lighting through formal lecture and practical experience. Laboratory requirements include assignments on the lighting/electrics crews for school productions.
THET 221. Theatre Makeup. 3 Hours.
Lecture-laboratory course in art of stage makeup. Practical makeup for the University Theatre productions.
THET 222S. Drafting for the Stage. 3 Hours.
PR: THET 103. Techniques in drafting in accordance with current graphic standards for stage design and technology. Introduction and refinement of technique and graphic style through projects and exercises.
THET 225S. Introduction to Stage Design 1. 3 Hours.
Study elements/principles of two/three dimensional design and application to scenery, lighting and costume design. Emphasis on creative analysis and communication using techniques in drawing, painting, and model making.
THET 226S. . 3 Hours.
PR: THET 225 or THET 225S. Experience applying elements/principles of two/three dimensional design to study of scenery, lighting, and costume design. Studio course focusing on color theory, painting and finishing techniques in model making.
THET 230. Text Analysis. 3 Hours.
For the student theatre practitioner in acting, design, directing, and stage management. Explorations include: anchoring techniques, concept of pressures, and the parameters of a dramatic event.
THET 231. Advanced Text Analysis. 3 Hours.
PR: THET 230. For the student practitioner in the studio acting program only exploring, in more depth, and with new challenging texts, analysis techniques of THET 230 but with total focus on performing the text.
THET 240S. Fundamental Vocal Technique 1. 2 Hours.
PR: Majors only. Developing the expressive voice. Understanding the anatomy and physiology of the voice, breath and resonance. Release of physical blocks.
THET 242S. Fundamentals of Movement. 2 Hours.
PR: Consent. An investigation into the fundamentals of human movement, and issues of movement in performance. Exercises concentrate on the development of spatial and self-awareness, ensemble skills, and character development.
THET 244. Intermediate Acting. 3 Hours.
PR: THET 144. Continued exploration of acting techniques including exercise work in objectives, beats, actions, personalization, environment improvisation, monologue, and scene study work.
THET 244S. Intermediate Acting. 3 Hours.
PR: THET 144 or THET 144S. Continued exploration of acting techniques including exercise work in objectives, beats, actions, personalization, environment improvisation, monologue, and scene study work.
THET 246S. Auditioning and Career Development. 3 Hours.
PR: THET 102 or THET 144 or THET 144S or permission of the instructor. Preparatory and laboratory class in auditioning for theatre, film and television. Examination of the entertainment industry including headshots, resumes, unions, casting, representation, self-branding and promotion, and personal career development.
THET 293. Special Topics. 1-6 Hours.
PR: Consent. Investigation of topics not covered in regularly scheduled courses.
THET 300. Practicum. 1 Hour.
PR: THET 104 or THET 106 or consent. (May be repeated for a maximum of 4 credit hours.) Assigned independent production projects supervised by a faculty mentor.
THET 301. History of Western Theatre. 3 Hours.
A survey of important movements, people, innovations, styles, and traditions in European and American theatre from the Greeks to the present.
THET 302. Directing. 3 Hours.
Fundamental theory and practice of directing for live theatre with emphasis on script analysis, director-actor communication, ground plan, and composition.
THET 310S. Stagecraft 2. 3 Hours.
PR: THET 103. Study of advanced technical procedures including welding, materials, wood joinery, and practical construction problem solving. Emphasis on the practices and development of skills through projects.
THET 312. Theatrical Rigging. 3 Hours.
PR: THET 222. An examination of the tools, equipment, hardware, and safety practices commonly used in theatrical rigging.
THET 315S. Portfolio Development. 3 Hours.
A 3 hour lab course on techniques of portfolio development focusing on both digital and traditional portfolio formats and related general techniques of graphic design and image preparation.
THET 317. Costume Pattern Drafting Techniques. 3 Hours.
PR: THET 105 and THET 106. This course centers on the practice of interpreting 2-dimensional drawings and pictures into drafts that can be built into a wearable 3-dimensional object. The common application is the creation of custom clothing but can also include hats, shoes, gloves, scarves, crowns, armor, and other accessories. Students will learn the necessary math required to draft the shape of the human form.
THET 321S. Stage Properties. 3 Hours.
PR: THET 103. Techniques and methods for designing and fabricating stage properties for theatrical production. Practical experience in the construction of properties for class projects and for the School's productions.
THET 322S. Scene Design. 3 Hours.
PR: (THET 222 or THET 222S) and (THET 225 or THET 225S). Introduction to the fundamentals of scenic design including conceptualization, development, drafting, rendering, model building and techniques of design presentation.
THET 323S. Advanced Scene Design. 3 Hours.
PR: THET 322 or THET 322S. Advanced study of scenic design with an emphasis on conceptualization, rendering, model building, and alternative forms of design presentation for the performing arts. (May be repeated for a maximum of 9 credit hours.).
THET 324S. Costume Design 1. 3 Hours.
PR: THET 226 or THET 226S. Study of basic design elements as applied to costume design. Script analysis leading to conceptualization and communication through visual language. Experience in practical organization skills, paperwork and budgeting.
THET 325S. Lighting Design. 3 Hours.
PR: THET 220. Experience in the design of stage lighting including conceptualization, drafting and rendering techniques related to the development and presentation of lighting design.
THET 326S. Advanced Costume Design. 3 Hours.
PR: THET 324 or THET 324S. Experience applying the basic principles of costume design to text, movement text, opera, dance, and puppetry. Emphasis on rendering techniques, presentation, composition, and fabric selections. (May be repeated for a maximum of 6 credit hours.).
THET 327S. History of Costume and Decoration 1. 3 Hours.
PR: (THET 225 or THET 225S) and (THET 226 or THET 226S). A historical survey of clothing, artistic style and decoration from ancient Egypt to 1750. Emphasis on how stage designers employ style in the design of costumes, scenery, and properties. (Field trip required.).
THET 328S. History of Costume and Decoration 2. 3 Hours.
PR: (THET 225 or THET 225S) and (THET 226 or THET 226S). A historical survey of clothing, artistic style, and decoration from 1750 to the present. Emphasis on how stage designers employ style in the design of costumes, scenery and properties. (Field trip required.).
THET 329S. Computer Assisted Design for the Stage. 3 Hours.
PR: THET 222 or THET 222S. Study of the graphic applications of computer assisted design and drafting for stage design through project work and exercises in a studio format.
THET 330S. Rendering Techniques. 3 Hours.
This course allows the students to explore and develop different techniques of rendering scenic, costume, and lighting designs. Students will work in watercolor, acrylic, marker, pencil and other media.
THET 340S. Intermediate Vocal Techniques 1. 2 Hours.
PR: (THET 240 or THET 240S) and consent. Extending vocal range, power, and flexibility. Achieving personal connection between words and self. Formation of speech sounds.
THET 341S. Intermediate Vocal Techniques 2. 2 Hours.
PR: (THET 340 or THET 340S) and consent. Developing of flexibility and muscularity of the voice. Phonetics.
THET 342S. Stage Movement 1. 2 Hours.
PR: (THET 242 or THET 242S) and consent. Continuation of THET 242S. Workshop in movement skills related to the actor's craft, including the analysis, description and execution of a broad range of movement qualities.
THET 343S. Stage Movement 2. 2 Hours.
PR: (THET 342 or THET 342S) or consent. An exploration of compositional techniques through the development of original performance material using movement as a basis. Will include a study of the history of theatrical performance art works and artists. (May be repeated for a maximum of 6 credit hours.).
THET 344S. Acting Studio. 3 Hours.
PR: (THET 244 or THET 244S) or consent. The purpose of studio is to reexamine basic acting principles and introduce advanced techniques in characterization, personalization, and given circumstances through exercises, monologue work, and intensive scene study coordinated with rehearsal and performance in THET 345S.
THET 345S. Advanced Acting Studio. 3 Hours.
PR: Consent. Continuation of THET 344S. Applied application of intermediate work in personalization, given circumstances, action, and objectives. Includes rehearsal and performance of play from the Modern Contemporary Theatre.
THET 346S. Actor's Craft. 3 Hours.
PR: THET 244 or THET 244S. Gives the general theatre student a studio style acting class experience, emphasizing exercises and monologue and scene work in a variety of styles.
THET 348S. Studio Scene Study 1. 1 Hour.
PR: THET 244 or THET 244S. The presentation of scenes chosen from modern and contemporary theatre, before a panel of acting, voice, and movement faculty for critique.
THET 352S. Acting the Song. 3 Hours.
PR: THET 144 or THET 144S. Exploration of lyric, rhyme, imagery, storytelling, phrasing, musical composition and overall theme of a song for clues the actor can use in performance.
THET 355S. Musical Theatre Studio. 3 Hours.
PR: (THET 244 or THET 244S) and (MUSC 226 or MUSC 226S). Examine, explore and execute acting techniques and styles applicable to the musical through scene and musical performance study as well as classroom exercises. (May be repeated for a maximum of 6 credit hours.).
THET 365. Traditions of Dramatic Literature. 3 Hours.
PR: THET 260 or THET 301. An overview of dramatic literature from the Greeks to Pinter. The class will study one play per week in a seminar-style format with written assignments appropriate to a Writing course.
THET 370. Production Dramaturgy. 3 Hours.
PR: THET 112. A process-oriented course dealing with the demands and possibilities for dramaturges in the contemporary theatre. Casebooks and work with other sources contribute to the skill set for dramaturges assisting productions.
THET 375S. Puppet Construction. 3 Hours.
PR: THET 105. This studio class focuses on puppetry through the study of basic mechanical systems, printing, sculpting, sewing and finishing techniques.
THET 393. Special Topics. 1-6 Hours.
PR: Consent. Investigation of topics not covered in regularly scheduled courses.
THET 400. Advanced Production Practicum. 1 Hour.
PR: THET 200 or consent. (May be repeated for a maximum of 6 hours.) Assigned advanced production projects that are supervised by a faculty mentor.
THET 401. Capstone Experience. 3 Hours.
This course provides a culminating senior project for students in the areas of BFA acting, design, puppetry, and children's theatre, as well as for the BA in theatre.
THET 402. Repertory Theatre. 1-6 Hours.
PR: Consent. Rehearsal and performance techniques for producing plays in rotating repertory. Emphasis is on the creation of synthesized company of performers, designers, and technicians. (May be repeated for maximum of 12 credit hours.).
THET 403S. Advanced Directing. 3 Hours.
PR: THET 302. Emphasis on the work of the director as an integrating artist. High level of proficiency in the direction of a one-act play is required of all students enrolled.
THET 404S. Playwriting. 3 Hours.
PR: Consent. Development of basic playwriting techniques. Specific assignments explore characterization, dramatic event, dialogue, tension, compression. Emphasis on the student finding one's own voice, style, and courage to dramatize one's view of the world.
THET 405S. Advanced Playwriting. 3 Hours.
PR: THET 404 or THET 404S. Further exploration of dramatic technique, with emphasis on orchestrating the longer play. Also touches on script analysis of known dramatic texts and on practical problems of a playwriting career.
THET 406S. Advanced Stage Management Seminar. 1-3 Hours.
PR: THET 113 and (THET 206 or THET 206S). The advanced practical application of stage managing, allowing the students more independence to demonstrate a mastery of skills developed in previous coursework. Students are expected to stage manage or assist as Production Manager for a fully produced School of Theatre & Dance production and advise their peers and assistants on communication strategies to facilitate effective production team collaboration.
THET 417. Tailoring. 3 Hours.
PR: THET 425 or Instructor Approval. The Tailoring course teaching strategies and techniques used in the art of structured garments. The course emphasizes precision, teaching students to block, cut, and stitch accurately and consistently. They will also learn of internal jacket structures, complex pockets, and shaping collars. The key goal for tailoring is to create a crisply stitched garment that fits on an actor.
THET 418. Draping for Costumes. 3 Hours.
PR: THET 219. Draping is the practice of taking a 2-dimensional costume rendering and using fabric to realize that design on a mannequin. Once students learn how to accurately interpret shapes, they will engineer the foundations that make the garment wearable, including internal interfacings, closures, and body shapers. From there, students will learn to correct patterns based on fit.
THET 421S. Lighting Design 2. 3 Hours.
PR: THET 200 and (THET 325 or THET 325S). An advanced study of lighting design with emphasis on design development, cueing, and design refinement during technical rehearsals.
THET 422S. Advanced Stage Makeup. 3 Hours.
PR: THET 221. An advanced study of stage makeup materials and techniques. Intensive focus on facial anatomy, casting, sculpting, and design.
THET 423S. Costume Crafts. 3 Hours.
PR: THET 111 and (THET 425 or THET 425S). Identification and application of the materials and techniques used in the fabrication of costume crafts. Emphasis on research and practical experience through hands on project work.
THET 424. Advanced Technical Production. 3 Hours.
PR: THET 103 and THET 222. Detailed study of the fundamentals and principles of technical direction. The course will examine leadership principles, the flow of information needed to successfully implement a design, different phases of a production/build, budgeting, theatrical construction methods, and how to apply them to given design challenges.
THET 425S. Advanced Costume Construction. 3 Hours.
PR: THET 111. Study and practical application of costume construction techniques through development of flat-pattern drafting skills. Emphasis on use of research to interpret the costume rendering. Extensive hands-on experience with construction projects for Division productions. (May be repeated for a maximum of 6 credit hours).
THET 426. Automation. 3 Hours.
PR: THET 329. Automation is the exploration of motorized equipment used in the arts and how it can be utilized for production purposes. Topics from electricity to mechanical design will be discussed.
THET 427. Lighting Technology. 3 Hours.
PR: THET 220. An advanced study of the tools and technology available to lighting designers with an emphasis on contemporary lighting systems. Including electrical calculations, power distribution, networking and advanced industry specific software.
THET 428S. Scene Painting. 3 Hours.
PR: (THET 322 or THET 322S) and (THET 622 or THET 622S) or consent. An introduction to the basic tools, materials, and techniques of scene painting for the stage.
THET 429S. Sound Seminar. 3 Hours.
PR: THET 103 and THET 104. An exploration of sound design and equipment for the theatre with practical emphasis on producing and recording sound effects using computer software.
THET 433S. Model Building. 3 Hours.
PR: (THET 225 or THET 225S) and (THET 226 or THET 226S). Design and construction methods of the scenographic model are examined. Mastery is attained through the construction of three or four projects in the design studio.
THET 435. Theatre Health and Safety. 3 Hours.
Course investigates common health and safety issues encountered in Theatrical Production. Examines the laws and governing agencies in the theatrical industry. Certifies students in CPR and First Aid.
THET 440S. Advanced Vocal Techniques. 2 Hours.
PR: Consent. Meeting the demands of heightened texts requiring greater emotional and physical commitments. Tutorials.
THET 441S. Advanced Vocal Techniques 2. 2 Hours.
PR: (THET 440 or THET 440S) and consent. Integrating vocal techniques in the context of rehearsal and performance in plays of heightened text and issues of period and style.
THET 442S. Advanced Stage Movement 1. 2 Hours.
PR: (THET 343 or THET 343S) or consent. Practical application of issues of performance theory and composition. Studies in the relationship of text and movement in performance, and in the development of original performance material that uses movement as a point of departure.
THET 443S. Advanced Stage Movement 2. 2 Hours.
PR: (THET 442 or THET 442S) or consent. Intensive study of issues related to physicality i performance; special topics, which may include, but are not limited to stage combat, mask, and large group composition.
THET 444S. Advanced Acting Studio. 3 Hours.
PR: Consent. Continuation of advanced exercises focusing on the works of Shakespeare. Includes verse scansion, text analysis, dynamics, scene study, exercise work and characterization.
THET 445S. Advanced Acting Studio. 3 Hours.
PR: Consent. Continuation of THET 444S. Rehearsal and presentation of style project, (Shakespeare, Comedy of Manners, Shaw, etc.). Also includes seminars in special topics in performance.
THET 447S. Studio Scene Study 2. 1 Hour.
PR: THET 444 or THET 444S. The presentation of scenes chosen from Shakespeare and other plays of heightened text, before a panel of acting, voice and movement faculty for critique.
THET 450S. The Complete Performer. 3 Hours.
PR: (THET 447 or THET 447S) and (THET 455 or THET 455S). This lab-based course employs the best pedagogical approaches to strengthen the abilities of the actor who sings, acts, and dances. Students will work with musicians, lyricists, and book writers toward creating an original musical short, presented at the end of the semester. It is designed to cultivate student ability to compete in the musical theatre community as a triple threat.
THET 455S. Advanced Musical Theatre Studio. 3 Hours.
PR: (THET 344 or THET 344S) and (THET 355 or THET 355S). Presentation of scenes and musical performances from the American Musical Theatre genre (1960-Present) with instruction and critique from a panel of acting, music, and dance faculty. Students will examine, explore and execute acting techniques and styles applicable to the musical through scene and musical performance study and classroom exercises. (May be repeated for a maximum of 6 credit hours.).
THET 460. Contemporary Drama. 3 Hours.
PR: ENGL 102 or ENGL 103. Contemporary drama provides an analysis and exploration of a set of representative living playwrights with research and context. Also, writing and discussion will follow current issues of the periodical American Theatre.
THET 461S. Creative Dramatics. 3 Hours.
PR: THET 144 or THET 144S. Study and practice of creative drama for theatre education or classroom/curriculum use. Instructional methods for drama techniques and practical activities are stressed.
THET 462S. Puppetry. 3 Hours.
Comprehensive study of puppetry as a theatrical form. Construction, manipulation, and production methods for adult and youth audiences are highlighted.
THET 463S. Puppetry for Educators. 3 Hours.
PR: Consent. Study of the use of puppetry in the classroom and other educational settings; Construction, manipulation, scripting, story-telling ideas to use with children. Curricular issues will be covered.
THET 464S. Children's Theatre. 3 Hours.
PR: Consent. Study of theatre for child audiences. Writing, acting, designing, directing and producing plays with detailed analysis of scripts and children as audience members. (Field trip required.).
THET 490. Teaching Practicum. 1-3 Hours.
PR: Consent. Teaching practice as a tutor or assistant.
THET 491. Professional Field Experience. 1-18 Hours.
PR: Consent. (May be repeated up to a maximum of 18 hours.) Prearranged experiential learning program, to be planned, supervised, and evaluated for credit by faculty and field supervisors. Involves temporary placement with public or private enterprise for professional competence development.
THET 492. Directed Study. 1-3 Hours.
PR: Consent. (May be repeated for a maximum of 12 credit hours.) Directed study, reading, and/or research.
THET 493. Special Topics. 1-6 Hours.
PR: Consent. Investigation of topics not covered in regularly scheduled courses.
THET 494. Seminar. 1-3 Hours.
PR: Consent. Presentation and discussion of topics of mutual concern to students and faculty.
THET 495. Independent Study. 1-6 Hours.
Faculty supervised study of topics not available through regular course offerings.
THET 496. Senior Thesis. 1-3 Hours.
PR: Consent.
THET 497. Research. 1-6 Hours.
Independent research projects.
THET 498. Honors. 1-3 Hours.
PR: Students in Honors Program and consent by the honors director. Independent reading, study or research.