This course introduces the student to basic stage production, scenic painting, props, construction, basic electricity, lighting and sound. Some introduction to the organization of technical areas as they relate to the total production will also be included. Students will directly apply coursework through Augustana theatre productions.
Every Fall
Previously: THEA 136
This course introduces the student to basic costume design, selection and building and make-up design and application. Students directly apply coursework through Augustana theatre productions.
Every Spring
Previously: THEA 137
This course is designed to teach the student how to analyze scripts in terms of and in preparation for performance and production, regardless of theatrical specialization. The student will learn basic concepts and terminology associated with dramatic literature, examine several genres and their traits, and discover means of presenting the playwrights' ideas on the stage.
Every other Spring, odd years
Previously: THEA 125
An introduction to the art of theatre through direct exposure to theatre productions as audience, critic and participant. The goal is greater appreciation and understanding of the diverse styles and artists which make up the world of theatre.
Every other Fall, odd years
Previously: THEA 115
This course focuses on the process and techniques of acting, including: script analysis, character analysis, techniques used in building character for performance. Class will include lectures, activities, discussion, and student performances of scenes from plays.
Every Fall and occasional Spring
Previously: THEA 117
This class focuses on developing the actor's awareness of the voice and body as tools for performance. Content includes: anatomy, breath awareness, energy work, movement analysis, neutral mask, and assessment of physical and vocal risk. Also covers basic foundations of hand-to-hand combat. Content approaches will include: Laban, Feldenkrais, Linklater and others.
Every Spring
Previously: THEA 217
This course will examine the use fight and violence for theatrical use. It will provide training in unarmed and armed combat for the stage. It will include fisticuffs, falls and rolls, work with quarterstaff, rapier, broadsword, and basic techniques of fight choreography. Students will incorporate learned techniques into character and scene work.
Previously: THEA 140
Credit for this course will be granted to students for regular, weekly, supervised work on the technical crews for an Augustana theatrical production. Students must register for this practicum at the beginning of the semester and report to the instructor for work responsibilities. Repeatable.
Every Fall and Spring
Previously: THEA 095
Credit for this course will be granted upon being cast in a role in an Augustana main stage production, or for carrying out the duties of assistant director or stage manager (at the discretion of the director).
Every Fall and Spring
Previously: THEA 096
Credit for this course will be granted upon being cast in a lead role in an Augustana main stage production (at the discretion of the director).
Every Fall and Spring
Previously: THEA 097
This course serves as an introduction into the world of theatrical design that is accessible at all levels of theatre: from students with a passing interest, through students seeking a career in any part of the theatrical process. Topics include design team collaboration and communication, the overall design process with additional focus on the areas of scenery, costumes, and lighting; strategies for design concept development; and introductions to art media and drawing techniques. Over the semester long course, students will have the opportunity to read and analyze a classic Greek play and work through the design process to create their own rough scenic, costume, and lighting designs.
Occasionally
Previously: THEA 235
A course examining the role of the director in the creation of theatrical productions. Includes lab work, discussion and written work explaining the theories and techniques of directing.
THEA 1311
Every other Fall, odd years
Previously: THEA 225
A historical study of theatrical history from its origins through the Renaissance. The course will examine how theatre reflects the society of the time through its dramatic literature, performance styles, technological developments and practitioners.
Every other Fall, even years
Previously: THEA 215
A historical study of theatrical history from the Restoration to the present day. The course will examine how theatre reflects the society of the time through its dramatic literature, performance styles, technological developments and practitioners.
Every other Spring, odd years
Previously: THEA 216
This course focuses on the process and techniques of improvisational acting, sketch writing, and performance. Over the course of the semester, students will explore long and short form improvisation, learn the rules of collaborative scene building, and engage in sketch comedy writing. In addition to critically examining examples of improv and sketch comedy, students will develop a class improv team and craft a public performance at the end of the semester.
Every other Spring, odd years
Previously: THEA 208
Students explore how theatre can move beyond the stage to successfully interact with community. Students articulate their own values and learn how these can be applied theatrically within various contexts. Students gain background, techniques and applications of various performance forms.
Every other Spring, even years
Previously: THEA 234
TBD
Every other Spring, even years
Previously: THEA 277
This course serves as a performing arts-based introduction to the history and culture of Central and Eastern Europe, with particular attention given to developments made in the lands that once formed the sprawling multi-ethnic empire of Austria-Hungary.
Occasional Interims, abroad
Previously: GENL 256
Special Topics in Theatre.
Permission of Instructor
Previously: THEA 297
Individual work under the direction of departmental faculty. This option is designed for Theatre majors who seek an opportunity for in-depth study beyond the scope of departmental course offerings. This option is considered in addition to departmental offerings and does not take the place of required course work.
Permission of the Instructor and Department Chair
Every Fall and Spring
Previously: THEA 299
This is an advanced course in the theory and practice of scenography. Students will become familiar with terms, concepts, and the application of design principles for scenery, costume, and lighting design. The course has a strong visual component and students will be expected to work on developing traditional and computer aided visual representation skills.
Previously: THEA 336
An advanced course in stage directing that relies on discussion of advanced directing ideas, experimentation with various directing theories, and culminates in the staging of a production.
THEA 2311
Every other Fall, even years
Previously: THEA 325
This course is an extension of Acting II and will vary to meet the individual needs of the student. To achieve this goal, a variety of actor-training techniques may be studied, including: script analysis, improvisation, acting theories, and specific acting styles.
Occasional Interim
Previously: THEA 320
This course focuses on cultivating tools and strategies for the professional development of the actor. Material covered includes: auditioning, actor's portfolio development, resume, monologue scores, voice over recordings, alternative employment opportunities (artist-in-resident). Students will learn how to investigate opportunity, develop a network, and prepare for professional auditions and interviews.
Every other Spring, even years
Previously: THEA 322
This course provides the student with practical information and knowledge of methods to professionally stage manage theatre productions including straight plays, musicals, theatre for young audiences and cabarets. The course will include completing a production book and prompt script.
Occasionally
Previously: THEA 340
Internship in Theatre. Additional fees may apply.
Permission of the Instructor and Department Chair
Every Fall and Spring
Previously: THEA 395
The Department of Communication and Theatre will occasionally offer special seminars on timely subjects of interest to departmental majors.
Previously: THEA 397
Individual work under the direction of departmental faculty. This option is designed for Theatre majors who seek an opportunity for in-depth study beyond the scope of departmental course offerings. This option is considered in addition to departmental offerings and does not take the place of required course work.
Permission of the Instructor and Department Chair
Every Fall and Spring
Previously: THEA 399
This course gives senior Theatre majors the opportunity to finalize their portfolio, resume and senior showcase event. Theatre majors from all areas in the major will gather weekly with the Theater faculty to discuss their individual work, as well as investigating professional, 'real world' parallels to that work.
Senior THEA majors only
Every Fall
Previously: THEA 350