School of Theatre & Dance

DANC 123 Music Fundamentals for Theatre and Dance Artists (Units: 3)

Prerequisite: Restricted to Theatre Arts and Dance majors and minors.

Theatre and Dance artists develop the foundational skills to understand and read basic musical notation and rhythms, in addition to the skills needed to follow a score or other more advanced musical compositions. Lecture, 2 units; activity, 1 unit.
(This course is offered as TH A 123 and DANC 123. Students may not repeat the course under an alternate prefix.)

DANC 160 African-Haitian Dance I (Unit: 1)

Beginning skills in African-Haitian dance. Activity. May be repeated for a total of 2 units.

DANC 163 Ballet I (Unit: 1)

Ballet I is a beginning classical ballet technique class. May be repeated for a total of 4 units.

DANC 170 Integrated Dance Technique I (Units: 3)

Basic dance skills in ballet, modern, and jazz dance. May be repeated for a total of 6 units. (Plus-minus letter grade only)

DANC 173 Modern Dance I (Unit: 1)

Beginning skills in modern dance.

DANC 176 Jazz Dance I (Unit: 1)

Beginning skills in jazz dance.

DANC 207 Dance in Cultural Context (Unit: 1)

Movement vocabulary, performance practice and cultural context of a vernacular dance form. Topic to be specified in Class Schedule. May be repeated for a total of 4 units when topics vary. Activity, 1 unit.

Topics:

1. Afro-Brazilian Contemporary
2. Capoeira
3. Rhythm Tap Dance
4. Balinese Dance

DANC 208 Cultural History of Dance (Units: 3)

Study of dance traditions in their social and artistic contexts. Lectures on the history and development of dance genres supplemented by workshops in dance technique and performance conventions. Topics to be specified in the Class Schedule. Lecture, 2 units; activity, 1 unit. May be repeated for a total of 9 units only when topics vary.

Course Attributes:

• C1: Arts
• Am. Ethnic & Racial Minorities

Topics:

1. Survey of Dance in the Philippine Diaspora
2. Survey of Tap Dance in American Culture
3. Survey of Jazz Dance in American Culture

DANC 232 Dance Composition: Choreography I (Units: 3)

Prerequisite: DANC 170 (may be taken concurrently) or permission of the instructor.

Choreography and creative process in dance: improvisation, exploration, form, and content in the formation of solo works. Lecture, 1 unit; activity, 2 units.

DANC 236 Folklore of Dance: African-Haitian (Units: 2)

Development of African-Haitian dance in connection with ritual and celebration. Practice of African-Haitian dance forms. Lecture, 1 unit; laboratory, 1 unit.

DANC 263 Ballet II (Units: 2)

Prerequisite: DANC 170 (may be taken concurrently) or DANC 163 with permission of the instructor.

Intermediate level classical ballet technique. May be repeated for a total of 8 units. Activity

DANC 275 Modern Dance II (Units: 2)

Prerequisite: DANC 170 (may be taken concurrently) or DANC 173 with permission of the instructor.

Intermediate-level modern dance technique. May be repeated for a total of 8 units. Activity

DANC 276 Jazz Dance II (Units: 2)

Prerequisite: DANC 170 (may be taken concurrently) or DANC 176 with permission of the instructor.

Intermediate-level jazz dance technique. May be repeated for a total of 8 units. Activity.

DANC 300GW Dance Organizational Strategies and Field Topics - GWAR (Units: 3)

Prerequisite: GE Area A2.

Survey of dance service organizations and professional field topics including grant writing, copyright liabilities, dance documentation, resumes, publicity strategies, and fiscal survivorship. (ABC/NC grading only) [CSL may be available]

Course Attributes:

• Graduation Writing Assessment

DANC 301GW Dance Research Methods and Theory (Units: 3)

Prerequisite: GE Area A2*.

Survey of theory and methods used in dance scholarship including movement analysis, ethnography, oral history, archival methods, performance studies, and cultural studies. (ABC/NC grading only)

Course Attributes:

• Graduation Writing Assessment

DANC 304 Issues in Dance Medicine I (Units: 3)

Prerequisite: Ge Area B2.

The musculoskeletal system: elements of physiology and nutrition as they apply to dance training. Lecture, 2 units; activity, 1 unit.

DANC 311 Alignment/Pilates Mat (Unit: 1)

Prerequisite: DANC 170 (may be taken concurrently) or permission of the instructor.

An activity course in pilates mat work including core stabilization, mind body centering, and related methods. May be repeated for a total of 8 units.

DANC 312 Alignment Study/Pilates Mat II-III (Unit: 1)

Prerequisite: DANC 311 or permission of the instructor.

Movement lab for intermediate/advanced experience in theory and practice of Pilates mat and small equipment; core stabilization, alignment; Pilates principles in relation to dance practice. Activity. May be repeated for a total of 4 units.

DANC 316 Dunham Dance Technique (Units: 2)

Prerequisites: DANC 160 and any ballet, jazz, or modern dance class.

Intermediate level dance technique developed by the Katherine Dunham School of Dance covering barre exercises and movement progressions based in African Haitian and modern dance. May be repeated for a total of 8 units.

DANC 340 Dance Pedagogy (Units: 3)

Prerequisite: Upper-division standing or permission of the instructor.

Teaching dance for children and adolescents. The relationship between the physical and mental processes of learning. May be repeated for a total of 6 units. Lecture, 1 unit; activity, 2 units. [CSL may be available]

DANC 350 Dance Aesthetics: Cultural/Historical Perspectives (Units: 3)

Prerequisites: GE Areas A1*, A2*, A3*, and B4* all with grades of C- or better or permission of the instructor.

Cultural and historical exploration of dance for the viewer, including dance theatre and folk forms and their place in arts and culture.

Course Attributes:

• UD-C: Arts and/or Humanities
• Global Perspectives

DANC 363 Ballet III (Units: 2)

Prerequisites: DANC 170 (may be taken concurrently) and DANC 263 or permission of the instructor.

Advanced-level classical ballet technique. May be repeated for a total of 8 units. Activity.

DANC 374 Modern Dance III (Units: 2)

Prerequisites: DANC 170 (may be taken concurrently) and DANC 275 or permission of the instructor.

Advanced modern dance technique. May be repeated for a total of 8 units. Activity.

DANC 376 Jazz Dance III (Units: 2)

Prerequisites: DANC 170 (may be taken concurrently) and DANC 276 or permission of the instructor.

Advanced-level jazz dance technique. May be repeated up to 8 units. Activity.

DANC 399 University Dance Theatre (Units: 2)

Prerequisites: Audition; completion of level II or III dance technique classes; concurrent enrollment in two dance technique classes.

Year-long repertory class in which students build and perform faculty and guest artist choreography. Activity. May be repeated for a total of 12 units. [CSL may be available]

DANC 400 Workshop in Contemporary Dance (Unit: 1)

Prerequisite: A lower division technique class or permission of the instructor.

Study of new forms: cultural/contemporary fusion, contact improvisation, voice and movement. May be repeated for a total of four units.

DANC 401 Ballet Pointe and Partnering (Unit: 1)

Prerequisites: DANC 170, DANC 263, or permission of the instructor.

Development of ballet pointe technique and partnering skills. Intended for strong intermediate-advanced ballet dancers. Emphasis on clarity of footwork, placement of the body in pointe positions, and building strength. Barre designed to lead dancers in pointe combinations and variations in center floor. Classical ballet partnering will include lifts and turns. Activity. May be repeated for a total of 4 units.

DANC 408 Performance in Asia and the Asian Diaspora (Units: 3)

Prerequisites: GE Areas A1*, A2*, A3*, and B4* all with grades of C- or better or permission of the instructor.

An examination of dance, drama, performance, theatrical aesthetics, and conventions of productions in Asia and/or the Asian diaspora.
(This course is offered as TH A 408 and DANC 408. Students may not repeat the course under an alternate prefix.)

Course Attributes:

• UD-C: Arts and/or Humanities
• Global Perspectives

DANC 416 Advanced Contemporary Dance Repertory and Skills (Unit: 1)

Prerequisite: DANC 170 or permission of the instructor.

Repertory works and performance techniques. May be repeated for a total of 8 units.

DANC 430 Historical Survey of Dance in the Western World (Units: 3)

Prerequisites: GE Areas A1*, A2*, A3*, and B4* all with grades of C- or better; or permission of the instructor.

Development of dance as a performing art in the western world, and its relationship to social and cultural changes.

Course Attributes:

• UD-C: Arts and/or Humanities

DANC 434 Dance Composition: Choreography II (Units: 3)

Prerequisites: DANC 232; and permission of the instructor.

Experience in literal and non-literal choreography including chance, narrative, and historical forms. Work on duets, trios, and larger group studies culminating in a workshop presentation. Lecture, 1 unit; activity, 2 units.

DANC 461 Advanced Choreography and Production (Units: 3)

Prerequisites: DANC 232, DANC 434, and Th A 302 (may be taken concurrently).

Choreography for the stage in conjunction with production planning and management of New Moves production. Includes publicity, budgeting, rehearsal management, and criticism. May be repeated for a total of 6 units. [CSL may be available]

DANC 463 Performance in Dance Production (Unit: 1)

Prerequisites: Intermediate level of dance experience; audition; and concurrent enrollment in dance technique class.

Performance experience in choreography for dance production to train dancers for the field. Students are admitted to course by audition during the first week of the semester. May be repeated for a total of 4 units.

DANC 465 Ballet IV (Units: 2)

Prerequisites: DANC 170 (may be taken concurrently) and DANC 363 or permission of the instructor.

Advanced-level classical ballet technique. May be repeated for a total of 8 units. Activity.

DANC 474 Modern Dance IV (Units: 2)

Prerequisite: DANC 170 (may be taken concurrently) and DANC 374 or permission of the instructor.

Advanced level modern dance technique. May be repeated for a total of 8 units. Activity.

DANC 476 Jazz Dance IV (Units: 2)

Prerequisite: DANC 170 (may be taken concurrently) and DANC 376 or permission of the instructor.

Advanced-level jazz dance technique and repertory. May be repeated for a total of 8 units. Activity.

DANC 490 Dance Theatre Workshop (Units: 1-3)

Prerequisites: Restricted to Dance and Theatre Arts majors and minors; TH A 130, DANC 170; audition.

Creative laboratory for exploration of expressive continuum of dancing, singing and speaking in contemporary multi-disciplinary performance. Activity. May be repeated for a total of 9 units. (Plus-minus letter grade only)
(This course is offered as DANC 490 and TH A 490. Students may not repeat the course under an alternate prefix.)

DANC 657 Ethnography of Dance (Units: 3)

Prerequisites: GE Areas A1*, A2*, A3*, and B4* all with grades of C- or better or permission of the instructor.

The function of dance in society in the context of anthropological literature.
(This course is offered as DANC 657 and ANTH 657. Students may not repeat the course under an alternate prefix.)

Course Attributes:

• UD-C: Arts and/or Humanities
• Global Perspectives

DANC 685 Projects in the Teaching of Dance (Units: 1-3)

Prerequisites: Restricted to upper-division Dance majors or minors; or consent of the instructor.

The teaching practicum provides students with an opportunity to serve as an instructional aide, participate in the teaching of a regular instructionally-related Dance class, and learn about educational dance through fieldwork. (Students may earn a maximum of 4 units toward the baccalaureate degree for any course(s) numbered 685 regardless of discipline.) (CR/NC only)

DANC 699 Independent Study (Units: 1-3)

Prerequisite: Permission of the supervising faculty member.

An intensive study of a particular problem under the direction of a faculty member in the department. May be repeated for a total of 9 units. [CSL may be available]

TH A 122 Basic Music I: Piano (Units: 3)

Development of basic skills in music fundamentals and piano. Lecture, 2 units; activity, 1 unit. Extra fee required. Open to all students.
(This course is offered as MUS 122 and TH A 122. Students may not repeat the course under an alternate prefix.)

Course Attributes:

• C1: Arts

TH A 123 Music Fundamentals for Theatre and Dance Artists (Units: 3)

Prerequisite: Restricted to Theatre Arts and Dance majors and minors.

Theatre and Dance artists develop the foundational skills to understand and read basic musical notation and rhythms, in addition to the skills needed to follow a score or other more advanced musical compositions. Lecture, 2 units; activity, 1 unit.
(This course is offered as TH A 123 and DANC 123. Students may not repeat the course under an alternate prefix.)

TH A 130 Acting Workshop I (Units: 3)

The craft of acting. Improvisations, theatre games, and exercises to develop flexibility, imagination, agility, and expressiveness. Lecture, 2 units; activity, 1 unit. (Plus-minus letter grade only)

Course Attributes:

• C1: Arts

TH A 131 The Foundations of Music Theory (Units: 3)

Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in a basic piano class recommended.

Comprehensive introduction to music fundamentals and development of aural skills. (Plus-minus letter grade only)
(This course is offered as MUS 130 and TH A 131. Students may not repeat the course under an alternate prefix.)

TH A 133 Improvisation Workshop (Units: 3)

Techniques, practice, and critique of improvisational techniques as a stand-alone art form and as they pertain to theatrical acting and performance. Development of the ability to speak and respond to unscripted material on the stage, at a conference, a business meeting, and in life. Lecture, 2 units; activity, 1 unit.

TH A 200 Introduction to the Theatre (Units: 3)

Examination of various theatrical arts: acting, directing, designing, playwriting; from the audience's and artist's point of view. Relation between theatre history and issues of contemporary concern. Contains a live viewing component.

Course Attributes:

• C1: Arts

TH A 201 Love and Sex in Theatre (Units: 3)

Exploration of love and sex in live theatre, from ancient origins to modern works.

TH A 202 Integrated Theatre Studies (Units: 3)

Foundational skills for academic success in the discipline of theatre arts. Topics include advising (campus resources, time management, etc.), theatre studies (landmark works), and theatre production. (Plus-minus letter grade only) [Formerly TH A 301]

TH A 206 Beginning Jazz/Pop Piano (Unit: 1)

Introduction to jazz and popular piano performance: left and right-hand chord voicings, right hand improvisation, and rhythmic comping in a variety of stylistic idioms. May be repeated for a total of 3 units.
(This course is offered as MUS 206 and TH A 206. Students may not repeat the course under an alternate prefix.)

TH A 220 Creating, Designing, and Streaming Virtual Performances (Units: 2)

Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in TH A 302 or permission of the instructor.

Practical experiences in technical tools and creative work associated with virtual productions. Lecture, 1 unit; activity, 1 unit. May be repeated for a total of 4 units.

TH A 221 Fundamentals of Ear Training and Musicianship I (Units: 2)

Prerequisites: Satisfactory performance audition; knowledge of written scales, key signatures, rhythms, intervals, and triads; ability to sing scales.

Ear training and sight singing. Melodic, rhythmic, and harmonic dictation. Laboratory. (Plus-minus letter grade only)
(This course is offered as MUS 221 and TH A 221. Students may not repeat the course under an alternate prefix.)

TH A 223 The Actor's Speaking Voice: Skills and Techniques for Acting and Characterization (Units: 3)

Prerequisite: Restricted to Theatre Arts majors and minors.

The actor's free and responsive voice for acting, performance, and developing vocal variety. Theory, readings, and lectures with exercises for breathing, diction, posture, projection, cold reading techniques, and practice applied to performances of simple texts and monologues to develop the full range of the actor's speaking voice and its coordination with body, emotion, and characterization.

TH A 225 Acting Action and Characterization (Units: 3)

Developing the actor's free and responsive body. Exercises, improvisations, and the performance of action and theatrical movement studies used to develop physical awareness, exploration, characterization, and range of movement. May be repeated for a total of 6 units. Lecture, 2 units; activity, 1 unit. (Plus-minus letter grade only) [Formerly TH A 125]

TH A 230 Acting Workshop II (Units: 3)

Prerequisite: TH A 130 or equivalent; or permission of the instructor.

Actor training: intermediate scene study. Topics to be specified in the Class Schedule. May be repeated for a total of 6 units when topics vary. Lecture, 2 units; activity, 1 unit. (Plus-minus letter grade only)

Topics:

1. Acting Study: Works of Latina/x/o Playwrights
2. Acting Study: Works of Contemporary Playwrights
3. Acting Study: Contemporary Scene Study in Spanish

TH A 234 Modern Musicianship: Theory, Application, and Ear Training I (Units: 3)

Prerequisite: MUS 130.

Explore music notation, terminology, rhythm, scales and modes, key signatures and the circle of fifths, intervals, transposition, chords and chord progressions, figured bass, lead sheet notation, Roman numeral analysis, and basic structures integrating the active performance of all concepts.
(This course is offered as MUS 234 and TH A 234. Students may not repeat the course under an alternate prefix.)

TH A 235 Modern Musicianship: Theory, Application, and Ear Training II (Units: 3)

Prerequisite: MUS 130.

Examine non-diatonic scales, advanced chords, chord inversions and voicings, chord substitutions, nonharmonic tones, lead sheet notation, Roman numeral analysis, and basic structures. Focus on the integration of written notation and active performance.
(This course is offered as MUS 235 and TH A 235. Students may not repeat the course under an alternate prefix.)

TH A 302 Foundational Skills in Theatre and Dance Production (Units: 3)

Prerequisite: Upper-division standing or consent of the instructor.

Foundational experiences in all areas of technical production associated with university productions. Introductions to the shop environments and design and technical processes of each area of production. (Plus-minus letter grades only)

TH A 303 Production Support for Theatre and Dance Performance (Units: 3)

Prerequisite: TH A 302* or Dance majors and minors.

Practical experiences in the technical work associated with School of Theatre & Dance performances in the various areas of theatrical and dance production.

TH A 304 Focus on Acting (Unit: 1)

Prerequisite: Upper-division standing or consent of the instructor.

Examination and practice of a specific area/influence of theatre and performance. Topic to be specified in Class Schedule. May be repeated for a total of 3 units when topics vary.

Topics:

1. Great Acting in World Theatre
2. Focus on Voice-Overs
3. Focus on Foreign Dialects
4. Focus on American Dialects
5. Focus on British Dialects

TH A 305 Foundational Elements of Theatre Design (Units: 3)

Prerequisite: TH A 302 (may be taken concurrently).

Introduction to concept-driven, script-based visual storytelling. Practice in the specific skills needed for proficiency as a theatrical designer. Lecture, 2 units; activity, 1 unit.

TH A 307 The Singing Actor: Exploring Music through the Craft of Acting (Units: 2)

Prerequisites: Restricted to upper-division standing and by audition.

Exploration of song through the craft of acting, with a focus given to storytelling through the intersection of poetic structure and device and musical composition. Activity. (Plus-minus letter grade only) [Formerly offered as MUS 307/TH A 307]

TH A 310 Scenery and Props Laboratory and Crew (Units: 3)

Prerequisites: TH A 202 or DANC 170 (may be taken concurrently) or permission of instructor.

Practical experience in technical work associated with university productions in the areas of scenery and properties. Laboratory, 2 units; activity, 1 unit. May be repeated for a total of 6 units. [Formerly TH A 210]

TH A 312 Costume and Makeup Laboratory and Crew (Units: 3)

Prerequisites: TH A 202 or DANC 170 (may be taken concurrently) or permission of instructor.

Practical experience in technical work associated with university productions in the areas of costuming and makeup. Laboratory, 2 units; activity, 1 unit. May be repeated for a total of 6 units. [Formerly TH A 212]

TH A 313 Lighting and Sound Laboratory and Crew (Units: 3)

Prerequisites: TH A 202 or DANC 170 (may be taken concurrently) or permission of instructor.

Practical experience in technical work associated with university productions in the areas of lighting and sound. Laboratory, 2 units; activity, 1 unit. May be repeated for a total of 6 units. [Formerly TH A 213]

TH A 314 The Design and Craft of Stage Properties (Units: 3)

Prerequisite: TH A 210.

Exploration of properties research and design, construction, and repair, including design and construction drawings, advanced building techniques, storage, and rental administration, special effects, production etiquette, and coordination between departments. Lecture, 1 unit; laboratory, 2 units.

TH A 315 Theatre Production: Technical Laboratory and Crew (Unit: 1)

Prerequisite: Consent of the instructor.

Practical experience in phases of technical work associated with university productions in the areas of scenery, scenic painting, properties, lighting, sound, costuming, or makeup. May be repeated for a total of 6 units.

TH A 318 Voice Major Applied Instruction (Unit: 1)

Prerequisites: Restricted to Music and Theatre Art majors; audition; MUS majors must have concurrent enrollment in MUS 150, MUS 394, a vocal or choral ensemble as assigned; approval of the department.

Vocal study for the Music and Theater degrees. May be repeated for a total of 8 units for music performance majors; for other majors, may be repeated for a total of 2 units. (Plus-minus letter grade only)
(This course is offered as MUS 313 and TH A 318. Students may not repeat the course under an alternate prefix.)

TH A 323 Light Board Operation (Unit: 1)

Prerequisite: Upper-division standing or permission of the instructor.

Exploration and training in modern theatrical light board control. May be repeated for a total of 3 units. Activity.

TH A 324 Light and Performance: Translating Real World Lighting Environments to the Stage, Dance, and Opera (Units: 3)

Prerequisite: Upper-division standing or consent of the instructor.

Examination of the way light changes space; investigation of lighting requirements for dance, opera, and theatre; expansion of skills to communicate about light. Lecture, 2 units; laboratory, 1 unit.

TH A 330 Acting Workshop III (Units: 3)

Prerequisites: TH A 125, TH A 223, TH A 230.

Creating roles through intensive scene study. Approaches to individual actor problems. May be repeated for a total of 6 units. Lecture, 2 units; activity, 1 unit. (Plus-minus letter grade only.)

TH A 331 Voice Acting and Voiceover Training and Techniques (Units: 3)

Prerequisites: TH A 130 and TH A 230 or permission of the instructor.

Training and techniques in the milieu of voice acting. May be repeated for a total of 6 units. Lecture, 2 units; activity, 1 unit.

TH A 332 Asian Acting for Western Actors (Units: 3)

Prerequisites: TH A 130 and audition or consent of the instructor.

Principles of acting based on Asian models: physical training for "Western" actors. Models include: No, Kabuki, the Suzuki Method, and Beijing opera. May be repeated for a total of 6 units. (Plus-minus letter grade only)

TH A 333 Musical Theatre Technique (Units: 3)

Prerequisite: TH A 230 (may be taken concurrently) or permission of the instructor.

Fundamental techniques of lyric theatre. Integration of acting, singing, and movement as utilized in music theatre performance, and in preparation for TH A 433. (Plus-minus letter grade only)

TH A 335 Rehearsal and Performance Techniques (Unit: 1)

Prerequisite: Audition.

Work on a major production with rehearsal and performance as requirements. Activity. May be repeated as often as admitted by audition. May not be counted towards major or minor requirements in drama. (CR/NC grading only)

TH A 340 Principles of Directing (Units: 3)

Prerequisites: TH A 210 and TH A 230 or equivalent.

The qualifications of the director; the choice of plays for production; tryouts and methods of casting; preparation of the play script; building the rehearsal schedule; fundamentals of composition, movement, stage business, and characterization. Directing laboratory. Activity. (Plus-minus letter grade only)

TH A 341 History of Directing (Units: 3)

Prerequisite: TH A 130.

Introduction to the principal schools of stage direction as practiced by directors past and present. Lecture/demonstrations covering nascent stages of Duke of Saxe-Meinengen and Antoine, and culminating with contemporary artists such as Mnouchkine, Brook, Wilson.

TH A 355 Theatrical Design Studio (Units: 3)

Prerequisite: TH A 305 or equivalent experience.

Design for various forms of theatre, television, and cinema. Research and presentation techniques and other methods of pictorial representation of conceptual ideas. Production-related laboratory required, which may include but is not limited to scenic painting, costume construction, properties/set construction, lighting/sound installation. Topics to be specified in the Class Schedule. May be repeated for a total of 6 units.

Topics:

1. Scenic and Costume Design Studio
2. Lighting and Sound Design Studio

TH A 399 Musical Theatre Pit Band/Orchestra (Units: 2)

Prerequisite: Audition or consent of the instructor.

Small to medium-sized instrumental groups that perform in a variety of styles in support of the musical theatre productions produced by the School of Theatre & Dance. Activity. May be repeated for a total of 8 units.

TH A 401 Global Theatre History I (Units: 3)

Prerequisite: Restricted to sophomore standing or above; TH A 202* (may be taken concurrently) or TH A 301*.

Survey of key plays and theatrical traditions from antiquity to the advent of Modernism.

TH A 402 Global Theatre History II (Units: 3)

Prerequisite: Restricted to sophomore standing or above; TH A 101 and TH A 301*.

Survey of key plays and theatrical traditions from Modernism to the 21st century.

TH A 404 Musical Theatre History and Literature (Units: 3)

Prerequisite: Lower division GE Area C: Arts and Humanities.

Examination of the historical, philosophical, and significant emergence of the musical theatre. Exploration of the context of the musical throughout history as a multicultural study of Musical Theatre, and of specific works of literature pertaining to the creation of librettos, books, and scores of musicals.

TH A 405GW Analyzing and Writing About Theatre - GWAR (Units: 3)

Prerequisites: Theatre Arts majors; GE Area A2.

Instruction and practice in analyzing and writing about theatre performance, theatre history, dramatic literature, and design with literacy and precision. (ABC/NC grading only)

Course Attributes:

• Graduation Writing Assessment

TH A 406 The Art of Comedy (Units: 3)

Prerequisites: GE Areas A1*, A2*, A3*, and B4* all with grades of C- or better or permission of the instructor.

Techniques and materials of the art of comedy. Consider what makes people laugh, from simple jokes to intricate stage farces. Discussions with working comedians, comic actors, and writers.

Course Attributes:

• UD-C: Arts and/or Humanities

TH A 407 Popular Theatre/Popular Entertainment (Units: 3)

Prerequisites: GE Areas A1*, A2*, A3*, and B4* all with grades of C- or better or permission of the instructor.

Theatrical forms which have or once had a large, appreciative public. These popular forms include musical theatre, puppetry, melodrama, circus, farce, physical comedy, cabaret, and Peking opera. Examined through lectures and discussion.

Course Attributes:

• UD-C: Arts and/or Humanities
• Global Perspectives

TH A 408 Performance in Asia and the Asian Diaspora (Units: 3)

Prerequisites: GE Areas A1*, A2*, A3*, and B4* all with grades of C- or better or permission of the instructor.

An examination of dance, drama, performance, theatrical aesthetics, and conventions of productions in Asia and/or the Asian diaspora.
(This course is offered as TH A 408 and DANC 408. Students may not repeat the course under an alternate prefix.)

Course Attributes:

• UD-C: Arts and/or Humanities
• Global Perspectives

TH A 409 Queer Theatre and Performance (Units: 3)

Prerequisite: Upper-division standing and a GWAR course.

Close readings of plays and performances from the 20th-21st centuries in order to analyze the representation of LGBTQ characters, the telling of LGBTQ stories, and the work of LGBTQ playwrights and performance artists. Topics include history of drag in theatre, "coming out" plays, AIDS/HIV in plays, and lifting up work by trans artists and queer artists of color. Identify ways these pieces both support and subvert the dominant narratives of heteronormativity. Study how queer theatre reflects and impacts the historical moment including its intersection with race, class and ability. Celebrate the power of theatre to disrupt convention and create community.

TH A 410 Scene Design for Stage and Screen (Units: 3)

Prerequisite: TH A 302 and TH A 305.

Stage and production design for various forms of theatre, television, and cinema. Developing floor plans; methods of pictorial representation, scale drawings, color perspective, models. Scene painting laboratory. May be repeated for a total of 6 units. Lecture, 2 units; activity, 1 unit. (Plus-minus letter grade only)

TH A 411 Costume Design for Stage and Screen (Units: 3)

Prerequisites: TH A 205, TH A 305, TH A 504 or TH A 505, or consent of the instructor.

Stage and film costume design. Character and script analysis. Theoretical design projects in various theatrical genres. Use of various media and styles of design presentation. Crew required. (Plus-minus letter grade only)

TH A 413 Stage Lighting Design I (Units: 3)

Prerequisites: TH A 205, TH A 213, and TH A 305.

Stage lighting design process. How a design is created. In-depth coverage of stage lighting fixtures, graphics, color, and angle in light, and the point of view in design. Crew required. May be repeated for a total of 6 units. (Plus-minus letter grade only)

TH A 414 Technical Direction (Units: 3)

Prerequisite: TH A 210.

Theory and practice in managing the theatrical construction and installation process. Emphasis on working drawings (drafting) and paperwork. Lecture, 2 units; laboratory, 1 unit.

TH A 415 Sound Design in Theatre (Units: 2)

Prerequisites: TH A 210, TH A 212, TH A 213, and TH A 315, or equivalents.

Sound design for the theatre, including use of contemporary sound technology, developing a sound design concept, creation of a sound plot for production, and collaboration with directors and other designers. (Plus-minus letter grade only.)

TH A 433 Musical Theatre Workshop (Units: 3)

Prerequisite: TH A 130 or equivalent.

An intensive study in musical theatre performance. Students explore the intersection of song, dance, and acting as it pertains to style, period, history, and cultural impact. Students create a well-integrated, musical theater showcase that promotes team building, development of character, rehearsal process, ensemble work, and choreography through selected musical numbers from well-known musicals. Activity. May be repeated for a total of 6 units. Lecture, 2 units; activity, 1 unit. (Plus-minus letter grade only)

TH A 435 Advanced Topics in Performance (Unit: 1)

Prerequisite: TH A 130* or equivalent and permission of the instructor.

Advanced training in performance musical theatre, audition technique, or audition preparation for graduate study and further education. Topics to be specified in the Class Schedule. Supervision. May be repeated for a total of 2 units. (Plus-minus letter grade only)

Topics:

1. Live Theatre & Taped Auditions Techniques
2. Adv Technique in Acting Songs for Musical Theatre
3. Audition and Interview Preparation

TH A 437 Audition Techniques for Musical Theatre (Units: 3)

Prerequisites: Restricted to upper-division standing; TH A 230 or equivalent; or consent of the instructor.

Designed to introduce and/or enhance the student to specific techniques and skills necessary to audition for academic and professional theatre with confidence. Development of audition material and presentation skills will be the principal focus. The introduction of sound philosophies in obtaining successful and sound, practical tools for the preparation and execution of a successful audition will be established. Other aspects of auditioning including discussions on the business of "the show" wardrobe, social media, and networking will be addressed. Lecture, 2 units; activity, 1 unit.

TH A 440 Acting/Directing Workshop (Units: 3)

Prerequisites: For actors: TH A 230 and audition. For directors: TH A 340 and consent of the instructor.

Extensive participation in the performance of student-directed scenes from plays of various types and periods. Laboratory. May be repeated for a total of 6 units. (Plus-minus letter grade only)

TH A 451 Storytelling and Folk Literature (Units: 3)

Prerequisites: GE Areas A1*, A2*, A3*, and B4* all with grades of C- or better or permission of the instructor.

Methods and techniques of storytelling using selections from folktales, myths, legends, fables, and special types of poetry. (Plus-minus letter grade only)

Course Attributes:

• UD-C: Arts and/or Humanities
• Global Perspectives

TH A 452 Theatre Pedagogy (Units: 3)

Prerequisite for TH A 752: Graduate standing or consent of the instructor.
Prerequisites for TH A 452: Upper-division standing; GPA of 3.0 or higher; or consent of the instructor.

Methods of developing theatre curricula across educational contexts.
(TH A 752/TH A 452 is a paired course offering. Students who complete the course at one level may not repeat the course at the other level.)

TH A 454 The Business of Acting (Units: 3)

Prerequisites: GE Areas A1*, A2*, A3*, and B4* all with grades of C- or better or permission of the instructor.

Examine the social/cultural contexts of actors in different cultures past to present. Analysis of process actors use to find acting or theatre-related careers: Business skills, agents, resumes, headshots; audition research, digital technology to improve monologue performance for auditions.

Course Attributes:

• UD-C: Arts and/or Humanities
• Global Perspectives

TH A 460 Play Development Workshop (Units: 3)

Prerequisite: TH A 130 or TH A 200 or equivalent.

Workshop in which playwrights, directors, actors, and designers develop and refine new theatre pieces by producing them. Studio development of new plays from existing drafts through staged readings to showcase productions. May be repeated for a total of 6 units. Lecture, 2 units; activity, 1 unit.

TH A 467 On the Cultural Frontlines: Contemporary Trends in Israeli Art (Units: 3)

Prerequisite: GE Area A2.

An examination of contemporary Israeli culture through literature, cinema, and theater. Inner conflicts and shared visions of the Israeli psyche are revealed through the arts and in conversation with Israeli artists.
(This course is offered as JS 467, BECA 467, C W 467, and TH A 467. Students may not repeat the course under an alternate prefix.)

TH A 490 Dance Theatre Workshop (Units: 1-3)

Prerequisites: Restricted to Dance and Theatre Arts majors and minors; TH A 130, DANC 170; audition.

Creative laboratory for exploration of expressive continuum of dancing, singing and speaking in contemporary multi-disciplinary performance. Activity. May be repeated for a total of 9 units. (Plus-minus letter grade only)
(This course is offered as DANC 490 and TH A 490. Students may not repeat the course under an alternate prefix.)

TH A 501 Topics in Theatre Performance, Dramatic Literature, and History (Units: 3)

Prerequisite: Upper-division standing or consent of the instructor.

Exploration of theatre performance, dramatic literature and history of specific periods and artists. Consideration of innovative developments and theories in world theatre, special attention to prospects for new and future productions. Topic to be specified in Class Schedule. May be repeated for a total of 6 units.

Topics:

1. English Stage Satire from Augustans to Present
2. Brecht, Artaud, and their Followers

TH A 504 Historical Styles of Decor and Clothing (Units: 3)

Prerequisite: Upper-division standing or permission of the instructor.

A historical and contextual study of decor, ornament, architecture, clothing, and costume as it pertains to theatrical design; emphasis on periods with significant dramatic literature canons and/or influential cultural contributions. Visual research methods.

TH A 505 Historical Styles for the Theater: Clothing (Units: 3)

Prerequisite: TH A 205 or consent of the instructor.

World history of clothing and costume, emphasizing periods with significant dramatic literature canons and/or influential cultural contributions. Visual research methods. (Plus-minus letter grade only)

TH A 507 Survey of Jazz and Blues in Film (Units: 3)

Prerequisites: GE Areas A1*, A2*, A3*, and B4* all with grades of C- or better or permission of the instructor.

Survey of the history and impact of jazz and blues on the American film industry from the early "soundies" and "The Jazz Singer" to modern-day cinema. Noted jazz composers such as Henry Mancini, Quincy Jones, Melba Liston, and Oliver Nelson, as well as works by jazz-influenced composers of the 1970's film era.
(This course is offered as MUS 507 and TH A 507. Students may not repeat the course under an alternate prefix.)

Course Attributes:

• UD-C: Arts and/or Humanities
• Am. Ethnic & Racial Minorities

TH A 510 Advanced Stagecraft (Units: 3)

Prerequisite: TH A 210 or equivalent.

Drafting stage carpentry and working with various construction materials; problems of stage rigging, stage machinery, and special effects; organization and operation of the scene construction shop. May be repeated for a total of 6 units. Laboratory. (Plus-minus letter grade only)

TH A 512 Theatre Costume Design and Construction (Units: 3)

Prerequisite: TH A 212 or equivalent.

Pattern drafting, wardrobe plotting, choice of materials, techniques in adapting historical styles. Work on crews for productions. May be repeated for a total of 6 units. Laboratory. (Plus-minus letter grade only)

TH A 515 Management and Administration for Theatrical Production (Units: 3)

Prerequisites: Upper-division standing; TH A 302 and TH A 303.

Practical application of theatre management and administration skills, including but not limited to stage management of theatrical productions, projects in organization and supervision, public relations, promotion and publicity, writing programs, box office operations, house management, mission statements, budgeting, grant applications, ethics, and the practical considerations of creating a theatre company. Lecture, 1 unit; activity, 2 units. May be repeated for a total of 6 units. (Plus-minus letter grade only)

TH A 530 Acting: The Play (Units: 3)

Prerequisites: TH A 302, TH A 223, TH A 230, and an audition.

Performance techniques through detailed work on faculty-directed scripts; integration of theory and techniques of acting. Laboratory. May be repeated for a total of 9 units. (Plus-minus letter grade only)

TH A 531 Advanced Topics in Theatre Performance (Units: 3)

Prerequisite: TH A 130 or equivalent.

Advanced topics in theatre performance. Topics to be specified in the Class Schedule. May be repeated when topics vary. Activity.

Topics:

1. Understanding & Performing Shakespeare's Plays
2. Radio Acting and Audio Theatre
3. Performing the Drama of the Spanish Golden Age

TH A 532 Asian Theatre Workshop (Units: 3)

Prerequisites: TH A 130 and audition or consent of the instructor.

Analytical and creative study of Asian theatre; practice in acting and directing traditional Asian theatre pieces or Western plays with Asian techniques; development of new performance style based on Asian examples. May be repeated for a total of 6 units.(Plus-minus letter grade only)

TH A 533 Advanced Musical Theatre Workshop (Units: 3)

Prerequisites: TH A 433 and audition.

Advanced practice in performance techniques for musical plays, with participation in selected scenes. May be repeated for a total of 6 units. Laboratory. (Plus-minus letter grade only)

TH A 557 Acting Technique for Film and Television (Units: 3)

Prerequisite: TH A 230 or permission of the instructor.

The rehearsal, directing, and recording of acting for the media of film and television. Emphasis is on the collaboration between actor and director at every stage of the process. Actors must have performance experience.

TH A 558 Writing and Performing in Film and Theatre (Units: 3)

Prerequisites: Restricted to upper-division students; CINE 450* or CINE 454* or CINE 456* or TH A 130* or equivalent; or permission of the instructor. Students are restricted to a maximum of two 400-level or two 600-level CINE courses per semester. CINE 450, CINE 454, CINE 458, or CINE 601 may be taken concurrently without a formal exception.

Advanced course pairs screenwriting students (Cinema majors) with performing students (Theatre majors) to workshop original scripts through performance.
(This course is offered as CINE 654 and TH A 558. Students may not repeat the course under an alternate prefix.)

TH A 559 Women in Jazz (Units: 3)

Prerequisites: GE Areas A1*, A2*, A3*, and B4* all with grades of C- or better or permission of the instructor.

The role of women in the history of jazz.
(This course is offered as MUS 559 and TH A 559. Students may not repeat the course under an alternate prefix.)

Course Attributes:

• U.S. History
• UD-C: Arts and/or Humanities
• Am. Ethnic & Racial Minorities

TH A 600 Collaborative Processes in Theatre (Units: 3)

Prerequisite: Permission of the instructor.

Design colloquium addressing the processes of theatrical collaboration. May be repeated for a total of 6 units. (Plus-minus letter grade only.) [Formerly TH A 711]

TH A 605 Writing and Performing Monologues (Units: 3)

Prerequisites: Restricted to Creative Writing, English Education, and Theatre Arts majors; TH A 130. For C W majors: C W 301; C W 511GW or C W 512GW or C W 513GW.

Workshop in the creation of contemporary performance monologues. Development of original pieces through writing, performance, and critique; study of artists in the field.
(This course is offered as TH A 605 and C W 605. Students may not repeat the course under an alternate prefix.)

TH A 609 Introduction to Computer Aided Drawing for Theatrical Applications (Units: 3)

Prerequisites: TH A 205 and TH A 305*.

Introduction to the use of computer-aided drafting as utilized in the professional areas of the entertainment industries (theatre, film, television). Topics typically include drawing in 2D and 3D, use of tools, page planning, and layout, sizing, importing and exporting, printing, and file management. The application used is Vectorworks. May be repeated for a total of 6 units. Activity.

TH A 610 Practicum in Theatre (Units: 3)

Prerequisite: Permission of the supervising staff.

Individual projects in costume, make-up, lighting, or scene design; properties, stagecraft; theatre administration or theatre architecture. May be repeated in a different area for a total of 12 units. (Plus-minus letter grade only)

TH A 611 Seminar in Costume Design and Technology (Units: 3)

Prerequisites: TH A 411 and TH A 504 or TH A 505.

The role of costume design and technology in modern theatre practices. Topic to be specified in Class Schedule. May be repeated for a total of 12 units when topics vary. (Plus-minus letter grade only)

Topics:

1. Period Patternmaking and Tailoring for the Stage
2. Advanced Costume Design for Stage and Screen

TH A 613 Stage Lighting Design II (Units: 3)

Prerequisites: TH A 205, TH A 213, TH A 305, and TH A 413.

Lighting designs for opera, dance, and theatre. Students design productions for class and productions for the university. May be repeated for a total of 6 units. (Plus-minus letter grade only)

TH A 640 Play Production Concepts (Units: 3)

Prerequisite: Upper-division standing; TH A 305; or permission of the instructor.

Methods and principles that encourage a conceptual approach toward play production. Formal techniques and thematic studies provide the theatre practitioner with a coherent perspective for the interpretation of dramatic material. May be repeated for a total of 6 units. (Plus-minus letter grade only) [Formerly TH A 740]

TH A 657 Practicum in School and Community Drama (Units: 3)

Prerequisite: Consent of the department.

Supervised fieldwork experience in conjunction with school and community performing arts program. May be repeated for a total of 6 units with consent of supervisor. (Plus-minus letter grade only)

TH A 660 Advanced Play Development Workshop (Units: 3)

Prerequisites: TH A 130 or TH A 340 or TH A 460, consent of the instructor.

Development of original plays by students, through rehearsal and presentation of staged readings. New plays: the process and technique of mounting the staged reading for playwrights, directors, and dramaturgs. May be repeated for a total of 9 units.

TH A 661 Play Development Showcase (Units: 3)

Prerequisites: Upper-division standing, consent of the instructor.

Development and presentation of short plays and monologues by SF State students. Writers, actors, and directors collaborate in rehearsal, production, and performance. Admission by audition/submission and permission of instructor only. May be repeated for a total of 9 units.

TH A 671 Stage Management (Units: 3)

Prerequisites: Two of the following: TH A 210, TH A 212, TH A 213, or equivalents.

Advanced theoretical and practical application of stage management techniques; examination of the resources and responsibilities of a successful stage manager at SF State and in the professional arena. May be repeated for a total of 6 units. (Plus-minus letter grade only)

TH A 685 Projects in the Teaching of Theatre Arts (Units: 1-3)

Prerequisites: Theatre Arts majors; TH A 130; completion of course in instructional subject matter; consent of the instructor.

The teaching practicum provides students with an opportunity to serve as an instructional aide, participate in the teaching of a regular instructionally-related Theatre Arts class, and learn about educational theatre through fieldwork. (Students may earn a maximum of 4 units toward the baccalaureate degree for any course(s) numbered 685 regardless of discipline.)

TH A 690 Brown Bag Theatre Company (Units: 3)

Prerequisites: TH A 130, TH A 230, TH A 223, audition; concurrent enrollment in TH A 330.

Intensive study and studio presentation of 14 different texts during the semester. May be repeated for a total of 6 units. (Plus-minus letter grade only)

TH A 699 Independent Study (Units: 1-3)

Prerequisite: Upper-division standing or consent of the instructor.

Special projects or independent study of some aspect of the field under the supervision of a department faculty member. May be repeated for a total of 9 units.

TH A 700 Theatre Research and Writing Practicum (Units: 3)

Prerequisite: Graduate standing or consent of the the instructor.

Introduction to theatre research methods and the writing of essays about theatre. Students write and discuss papers that reflect advanced skills in composition, research, and criticism.

TH A 701 Seminar: Theatrical History and Historiography (Units: 3)

Prerequisite: TH A 401 or ENG 570 or ENG 571 or equivalent.

Selected topics from theatrical history. Special emphasis on the relation between the theatre and its cultural contexts, the uses of theatrical history in contemporary production, and on the techniques of production reconstruction. (Plus-minus letter grade only)

TH A 702 Shakespeare: Text and Performance Seminar (Units: 3)

Prerequisite: TH A 401 or ENG 570, or equivalent.

An exploration of representative Shakespearean texts and their expressions as performance.

TH A 703 Seminar: The American Stage (Units: 3)

Prerequisite: TH A 402 or ENG 574 or equivalent.

The American tradition in the theatre; major plays and productions from O'Neill to the present. (Plus-minus letter grade only)

TH A 704 Seminar: Contemporary Plays and Performance (Units: 3)

Prerequisite: TH A 402 or ENG 574 or equivalent.

Playwrights and production styles in the contemporary theatre. The "new naturalism," performance art, and post-modernism. (Plus-minus letter grade only)

TH A 705 Playcrafting and Dramaturgy (Units: 3)

Prerequisite: Undergraduate background as appropriate.

Close study of play development and dramaturgy, with special emphasis on the construction of performance scenarios and on the director-dramaturg collaboration.

TH A 707 Thesis Proposal (Unit: 1)

Prerequisite: Graduate standing or consent of the instructor.

Completion of a thesis proposal or creative work project proposal with a faculty adviser. Must be completed satisfactorily prior to taking TH A 894 or TH A 898.

TH A 709 Seminar: Dramatic Literature and Criticism (Units: 3)

Prerequisite: A graduate course in theatre backgrounds and/or dramatic literature.

Contemporary approaches in dramatic criticism applied to selected works of dramatic literature. (Plus-minus letter grade only)

TH A 712 Portfolio Development (Unit: 1)

Prerequisites: Upper-division or graduate standing; TH A 750, TH A 610/TH A 810; and consent of the instructor.

Supervised development of materials for design/technical theatre portfolios, workshops in presentation, interview techniques. Introduction to entertainment industry business practices.

TH A 732 Seminar: Topics in Asian Theatre (Units: 3)

Prerequisite: Graduate standing in Theatre Arts or consent of the instructor.

Close examination of theatrical theory and practice in selected Asian forms, including but not limited to Noh, Kabuki, and Beijing Opera. May be repeated for a total of 6 units.

TH A 750 Design Studio (Units: 3)

Prerequisites: Graduate standing in Theatre Arts and consent of the instructor.

Tutorial studio exploration of design problems in theatre arts/drama. May be repeated for a total of 9 units. (Plus-minus letter grade only)

TH A 752 Theatre Pedagogy (Units: 3)

Prerequisite for TH A 752: Graduate standing or consent of the instructor.
Prerequisites for TH A 452: Upper-division standing; GPA of 3.0 or higher; or consent of the instructor.

Methods of developing theatre curricula across educational contexts.
(TH A 752/TH A 452 is a paired course offering. Students who complete the course at one level may not repeat the course at the other level.)

TH A 757 Internship in Theatre (Units: 3)

Prerequisites: Final year in M.F.A. in theatre arts and consent of the department.

Assignment, under faculty supervision, to professional production with Bay Area theatre companies, performing arts agencies, or production organizations. May be repeated for a total of 6 units. (Plus-minus letter grade only)

TH A 810 Advanced Practicum in Theatre (Units: 3)

Prerequisites: Graduate standing in Theatre Arts and consent of the instructor.

Development, solution, and presentation of design problems for professional theatre. (Plus-minus letter grade only)

TH A 852 Directed Experience in Drama Education (Units: 3)

Prerequisite: Consent of the department.

Supervised observation and directed experience in the teaching of drama courses; analysis of teaching problems. May be repeated for a total of 6 units. (Plus-minus letter grade only)

TH A 894 Creative Work Project (Units: 3)

Prerequisites: Consent of the graduate major advisor, and approval of Advancement to Candidacy (ATC) and Culminating Experience (CE) forms by Graduate Studies.

Advancement to Candidacy and Proposal for Culminating Experience Requirement forms must be approved by the Graduate Division before registration. (Plus-minus letter grade only)

TH A 896 Directed Readings for M.A. Drama Comprehensive Examination (Units: 3)

Prerequisites: Consent of the instructor and completion of two core courses in M.A. Drama program.

Preparation for a culminating experience in drama through a series of advanced readings in dramatic literature and theory, theatre history, and performance studies that are completed by the taking of an examination. (CR/NC grading only)

TH A 896EXM Culminating Experience Examination (Units: 0-3)

Prerequisites: Consent of the instructor, committee chair, and approval of Advancement to Candidacy (ATC) and Culminating Experience (CE) forms by Graduate Studies. ATC and Proposal for Culminating Experience Requirement forms must be approved by the Graduate Division before registration.

Enrollment in 896EXAM required for students whose culminating experience consists of an examination only. Not for students enrolled in a culminating experience course numbered TH A 894 and TH A 898. (CR/NC, RP)

TH A 897 Research for Thesis and Creative Work Projects in Drama (Units: 3)

Prerequisites: Consent of the instructor and completion of two core graduate seminars in M.A. Drama program. Research and completion of a thesis or creative work project proposal with faculty guidance and instruction. Includes reading of dramatic literature, choosing and developing a topic in detailed written statement.

(CR/NC only)

TH A 898 Master's Thesis (Units: 3)

Prerequisites: Consent of the graduate major advisor, and approval of Advancement to Candidacy (ATC) and Culminating Experience (CE) forms by Graduate Studies.

Advancement to Candidacy and Proposal for Culminating Experience Requirement forms must be approved by the Graduate Division before registration. (CR/NC grading only)

TH A 899 Independent Study (Units: 3)

Prerequisites: Graduate standing and consent of the instructor.

Special project/independent study of some aspect of the field related to the student's final thesis or project. May be repeated for a total of 6 units. (Plus/minus letter grade only)