Theater (THEA)
THEA 105 Introduction to Modern Dance (4 Credits)
This class is an exploration of movement fundamentals for the purpose of developing and strengthening individual creativity and artistic expression in dance. Class work is designed to: 1) Give individuals a basic understanding of anatomical structure and kinesiological principles as a foundation for developing technical skills needed to create articulate and expressive movement; 2) Provide an embodied experience of time and energy principles as related to dance; 3) demystify dance as an art form and make it accessible and relevant to all.
Prerequisites: None
Equivalent courses: HONR 230F
Attributes: Artistic Expression (AE), Thematic Encounter1/2-Movement
THEA 113 Stagecraft (4 Credits)
Beginning theory and practice of scenography. Study of materials and techniques used in stage scenery. Also an introduction to the theories and equipment used in theater lighting and sound. Lab required. Fall.
Prerequisites: None
Attributes: Artistic Expression (AE)
THEA 117 Acting Foundations (4 Credits)
Introduction to acting. Designed to develop the actor's imagination, observation and concentration through sense awareness, relaxation, pantomime and theater games. Techniques will be introduced with the purpose of bringing the actor’s body, voice and mind together onstage to fully communicate choices through strong psychological and physical action. Also an introduction to building the foundation of a good voice. Training in breathing, physical structure and relaxation.
Prerequisites: None
Corequisites: THEA XXXA
Attributes: Artistic Expression (AE), Thematic Encounter1/2 - Truth
THEA 140 Fundamentals of Movement (2 Credits)
This course is an introduction to movement fundamentals and is designed for actors, athletes, musicians, visual artists, and anyone desiring to improve fine motor skills, flexibility, coordination, posture, or body image. The goal is for students to develop somatic awareness so that they can recognize their own habitual movement patterns and learn to explore new movement options, with an emphasis on decreasing effort and increasing sensitivity. The course uses somatic methodologies and modern dance techniques to enhance students' understanding of basic anatomical and kinesiological principles, expand their range and quality of movement, and improve individual performance skills. And the course also offers an experience of movement as a creative form without the perceived stereotypical definitions and limitations of dance.
Prerequisites: None
Attributes: Artistic Expression (AE), Thematic Encounter1/2-Movement
THEA 200 Theater Audience (4 Credits)
A presentation of theater from the audience's rather than the performer's perspective. Designed to acquaint non theater students with live theater as a meaningful and enjoyable event. Approached from the student's present exposure level. Lecture, group discussions and field trips to live performances required.
Prerequisites: None
Corequisites: THEA XXXA
Equivalent courses: THEA 204
Attributes: Artistic Engagement (AR), Artistic Expression (AE), Thematic Encounter1/2 - Truth
THEA 209 Theatrical Dance Styles and Physical Theater (2 Credits)
This course builds on the basic physical preparation for the actor and explores different dance forms and styles which are commonly used in theatrical productions. A variety of dance techniques and somatic methodologies will be studied, including ballet, ballroom, jazz, yoga, martial arts.
Prerequisites: None
Attributes: Artistic Expression (AE)
THEA 210 Dance Studies: Technique, Improvisation, Choreography and Performance (2 Credits)
This course will offer students the opportunity to develop technical skills to improve flexibility, coordination, and strength and to use those skills to increase their range of abilities in creating and performing dance. Modern dance techniques will serve as the foundation for students to build a movement vocabulary, and students will be expected to develop their own movement material in improvisation and composition exercises. Choreographic elements, form, and styles will be explored to guide students in the creative process and performance will be an on-going focus within the class. The goal is for the students to be able to clarify and fulfill all movement so they can physically express their ideas and emotions in movement which is authentic and meaningful, i.e., dance.
Attributes: Artistic Expression (AE)
THEA 215 Sophomore Seminar (2 Credits)
This course is a practical seminar for those intending to major in theater. Content includes the integration of various aspects of theatrical production, an introduction to theater as a profession, portfolio and résumé development, and assistance in application to the major. Spring of sophomore year.
Prerequisites: None
Corequisites: THEA XXXA
THEA 217 Happy Accidents: Improvisation for all (4 Credits)
You can get better at make believe! This course will help you learn the fundamental tools of improv through engaging exercises and group game play designed to bolster your soft skills and lay the foundation that will allow you to create without self-judgment. It provides experience in movement, voice, character study, spontaneity, presence, scene set-up, and collaboration utilizing these skills in free form improvisational exercises and in conflict resolution. The course provides a safe environment to explore your creative potential and experience the freedom and joy of improvisational play. The class is the perfect starting place for those with zero improv experience or for those wanting to refresh their improv fundamentals.
Prerequisites: THEA 117
Attributes: Artistic Expression (AE)
THEA 218 Readings in Culture and Dramatic Literature (1 Credit)
In this course students will read and discuss classic, modern or contemporary plays from a specific culture or genre. The class may perform a minimum of one public reading. The topics will vary from semester to semester. For a detailed description on the course topic, please go to: https://www.csbsju.edu/theater/curriculum/new-course-descriptions. May be repeated up to six times for credit. Course offered for A-F grading only.
Prerequisites: None
Equivalent courses: HONR 270D
Attributes: Artistic Expression (AE)
THEA 219 Intermediate Acting (4 Credits)
Continuation of THEA 117 with more advanced levels of theory and performance. Includes intensive scene and monologue work, with emphasis on text analysis and rehearsal techniques designed to expose the emotional and relational content of the scenes and monologues. Further work on the voice including the development of tone, resonance, range, power, articulation and projection.
Prerequisites: THEA 117
Corequisites: THEA XXXA
Equivalent courses: THEA 217
Attributes: Artistic Expression (AE), Thematic Encounter1/2 - Truth
THEA 240A Production Lab: Costumes (0-2 Credits)
A minimum of 50 hours' work in acting or stagecraft involving a crew responsibility. Prerequisite: Instructor's permission. May be repeated for up to 6 credits. Topics: Acting, scenography, costume, stage management, dramaturgy, publicity/marketing, dance. Course offered for S/U grading only.
Prerequisites: None
THEA 240B Production Lab: Scenography (0-2 Credits)
A minimum of 50 hours' work in acting or stagecraft involving a crew responsibility. Prerequisite: Instructor's permission. May be repeated for up to 6 credits. Topics: Acting, scenography, costume, stage management, dramaturgy, publicity/marketing, dance.
Prerequisites: None
THEA 240C Production Lab: Lighting (0-2 Credits)
Prerequisites: None
THEA 240D Production Lab: Sound (0-2 Credits)
Prerequisites: None
THEA 240E Production Lab: Acting (0-2 Credits)
A minimum of 50 hours' work in acting or stagecraft involving a crew responsibility. Prerequisite: Instructor's permission. May be repeated for up to 6 credits. Topics: Acting, scenography, costume, stage management, dramaturgy, publicity/marketing, dance.
Prerequisites: None
THEA 240F Production Lab: Stage Management (0-2 Credits)
Prerequisites: None
THEA 240G Production Lab: Dance (0-2 Credits)
Prerequisites: None
THEA 253 Introduction to the Costuming Process (4 Credits)
A basic comprehensive study of the process a stage costumer employs from character analysis to costume execution. Practical application and production-work are emphasized through laboratory experience. Spring.
Prerequisites: None
Attributes: Artistic Expression (AE)
THEA 270AA Theory and Practice for Acting 1-Australia (AE) (4 Credits)
Prerequisites: None
Attributes: Artistic Expression (AE)
THEA 270OA Introduction to Western Theatre and Principles of Text Study (3 Credits)
Introduction to basic concepts in theatre studies. Introduction to techniques and methods of textual analysis and interpretation through a study of selected plays in context as part of a survey of the history of the theatre and of theatre conventions and conditions of Western drama and theatre from the Greeks to Realism.
Prerequisites: None
Corequisites: XXXX 64
Attributes: Artistic Expression (AE)
THEA 271 Individual Learning Project (1-4 Credits)
Supervised reading or research at the lower-division level. Permission of department chair required. Consult department for applicability towards minor requirements. Not available to first-year students.
Prerequisites: None
THEA 279A Alternative Fashion Trends (4 Credits)
Alternative Fashion Trends of the late 20th century: How politics and music helped shape the alternative fashions of the last century. This class will examine how the hippy and psychedelic fashions of the 1960’s, punk fashions of the 1970’s/1980’s, grunge/Goth fashions of the 1980’s/1990’s and rap/hip-hop fashions of the 1990’s were influenced by the music and politics of their time. The course will also relate these fashions to the mainstream clothing of the time period they originated in and how these fashion trends continue today in fashions of the 21st century. Course offered for A-F grading only.
Prerequisites: THEA 279Ais a Thematic Focus - Truth Course. You must take INTG 100 or 205 prior to taking a Thematic Focus Course. You must take a Cultural and Social Difference: Identity (CI) course prior to or at the same time as Thematic Focus Courses.
Equivalent courses: THEA 267
Attributes: Artistic Expression (AE), Thematic Focus - Truth
THEA 280 Summer Courses (2 Credits)
Courses offered during summer term.
Prerequisites: None
THEA 300 Why the Face (4 Credits)
“I’m hip. I surf the web. I text. LOL: Laugh out loud. OMG: Oh my God. WTF: Why the face?” This line, spoken by Ty Burrell as the character Phil Dunphy on the sitcom Modern Family, embodies the content of this course. WTF will explore comedy, from its origins to today. We will examine texts, audio content, drawings, radio, television, film and the internet to determine what is funny, why is it funny, is it funny to everyone, are their rules about what is funny and who made those rules. We will focus on marginalized voices to determine if comedy is universal, or if it is cultural or gender specific. We will use the survey of comedy to reflect back onto ourselves and explore how we got our own sense of humor and how it shapes who we are as people.
Prerequisites: THEA 300is a Thematic Focus - Truth Course. You must take INTG 100 or 205 prior to taking a Thematic Focus Course. You must take a Cultural and Social Difference: Identity (CI) course prior to or at the same time as Thematic Focus Courses.
Attributes: Artistic Expression (AE), Thematic Focus - Truth
THEA 310 Dance Studies: Technique, Improvisation, Choreography and Performance (2 Credits)
Prerequisites: THEA 210
THEA 319 Actor's Work (2 Credits)
This course uses the theories, practices, and skills learned in THEA 219 for advance, intensive scene study of various dramatic genres. Because the work will focus on different genres each time the course is taught, this course is repeatable for credit.
Prerequisites: THEA 219
Corequisites: THEA XXXC
Equivalent courses: THEA 217
THEA 321 From Fops to Fashionistas: Four Hundred Years of Fabulous Fashion (4 Credits)
Fashion is an integral part of our lives today but have you ever wondered who the fops, fashionistas and influencers of fashion were from the previous 400 years? What technologies changed the way clothing was made or influenced the colors and fabrics we wear? Why is clothing considered art? This course will investigate how cultural, social, economic, and political ideas and events swept across the globe and changed the way people thought about and wore their clothes. From the practical to the fashionable, clothing shows us the artistry and history of the people who inhabit this planet.
Prerequisites: None
THEA 327 Drama Form (4 Credits)
Analysis, through representative dramatic texts and theories, of the development of literary and theatrical elements in the major dramatic forms and modes from the Greeks to the late 19th century. Content will also include early Asian theater forms. Fall.
Prerequisites: None
Corequisites: THEA XXXA
Restrictions: Students with a class of First Year may not enroll.
Attributes: Human Experience (HE)
THEA 332 Basic Costume Design (4 Credits)
Introduction to the art of costume design through study of contemporary designers, assigned readings and weekly critiques of sketch problems. Alternate years. Fall
Prerequisites: None
Attributes: Artistic Expression (AE), Thematic Encounter3 - Truth
THEA 333 Basic Principles and Design Elements of Lighting and Sound (4 Credits)
This course examines the principles, practices and technology of stage lighting and sound. Emphasis is on developing basic skills and a solid understanding of lighting and sound equipment and their use in theater production. Attendance at productions may be required.
Prerequisites: THEA 113
Corequisites: THEA XXXA
Equivalent courses: THEA 238
THEA 334 Basic Scene Design (4 Credits)
Introduction to the art of scenic design through study of contemporary designers, assigned readings and weekly critiques of sketch problems. Alternate years. Spring
Prerequisites: None
THEA 337 History of Theater to 18th Century (4 Credits)
Survey of theatrical activity in the West: acting styles, theater architecture, dramatic literature and theory, production techniques such as costuming, scenery and directing in the context of the historical social milieus. Content will include Western theater. Alternate years. Spring.
Prerequisites: None
Corequisites: THEA XXXA
Restrictions: Enrollment limited to students with a class of Junior or Senior.
THEA 338 Theater Through Time II (4 Credits)
A continuation of 337 from late 18th century to the 21st century. Alternate years. Spring
Prerequisites: None
Corequisites: THEA XXXA
Restrictions: Enrollment limited to students with a class of Junior or Senior.
THEA 340A Technical Problems: Costume (1-4 Credits)
Prerequisites: None
THEA 340B Technical Problems: Scenography (1-4 Credits)
Prerequisites: None
THEA 340C Technical Problems: Lighting (1-4 Credits)
Prerequisites: None
THEA 340D Technical Problems: Sound (1-4 Credits)
Prerequisites: None
THEA 340E Technical Problems: Acting (1-4 Credits)
Prerequisites: None
THEA 340F Technical Problems: Stage Management (1-4 Credits)
Prerequisites: None
THEA 340G Technical Problems: Dance (1-4 Credits)
Prerequisites: None
THEA 350 Theater Practicum (8-12 Credits)
A specialized program for the theater major to work in a theater situation away from the Saint Benedict's/Saint John's campus theaters. An internship program arranged with another college or professional company or a touring theater company. Arranged with the department chair the previous semester.
Prerequisites: None
THEA 353 Theater Materials and Techniques (4 Credits)
Advanced work in scenic materials which are useful to the theater practitioner. The course explores face casting and mask-making, painting techniques, sculpting, upholstering, and stage weapon construction. Attending Theater Performances may be required.
Prerequisites: THEA 113
Attributes: Artistic Expression (AE)
THEA 366D Improvisation (4 Credits)
The art of improvisation has its origins in the early mists of time; according to Aristotle, the art of comedy originated in improvisation. The most famous theater form of the renaissance, Commedia dell'Arte was a highly evolved form of improvisation complete with stereotyped characters and stock comic bits. In the twentieth century British theater practitioners began to use improvisation to develop specific human skills and from that point on improvisation began to be adapted to serve a myriad of functions. Today the form is used to train applicants for job interviews, to "try out" possible solutions to difficult interpersonal situations, to develop scripts for production, to create interactive theater pieces for social action and, to create the performance art of improvisation as live theater. This course is experientially based, although it will briefly cover the history, theory, creation and uses of improvisation. Students will learn basic methods of improvising conversations, scenes, comic sketches and interactive pieces geared towards solving interpersonal miscommunication. There will be a midterm and a final public sharing of pieces created through improvisation. In order to become more familiar with the relationship between performer and audience, students are required to attend live theater productions as part of this course; a fee is required to cover the cost of the tickets and the transportation to the Twin Cities. A-F grading only.
Prerequisites: None
THEA 366E Acting for the Digital Medium (4 Credits)
Whether you're creating content for TikTok or acting in an industry film, this course will cover the performance tools necessary to be successful in the digital medium. Acting for the Digital Medium will engage the students love of being on camera with acting techniques and theories specific to working on camera. The study of auditions, commercial work, television and film acting, screenplay analysis and onset vocabulary and protocol will culminate in a short film.
Prerequisites: None
Attributes: Artistic Expression (AE)
THEA 368 Modern Drama Seminar (4 Credits)
Analysis and interpretation of English, Continental and American drama from Ibsen to the present.
Prerequisites: None
Corequisites: THEA XXXA
Restrictions: Enrollment limited to students with a class of Junior or Senior.
THEA 370AA Australian Theatre-Australia (AE) (4 Credits)
Prerequisites: None
Attributes: Artistic Expression (AE)
THEA 370GA Greek Theater: Ancient and Modern (3 Credits)
This course will study and interpret ancient Greek drama both in its original context and as it is adapted and performed around the world today. The course will examine the origins and cultural context of Greek drama, as well as the performative aspects of the plays: theatrical space, stagecraft, music, and dance. It will also focus on key issues that the plays are concerned with, especially gender conflict, personal and communal identity, human violence, human and divine justice, self-sacrifice, political ambition, and the roles of women, slaves, and foreigners. In addition to studying the ancient texts, students will explore the relevance of these plays in later times, from the renaissance to today and will examine contemporary adaptations and projects based on these plays, especially ones that focus on women, immigrants, veterans of war, and violence.
Prerequisites: None
Corequisites: XXXX 53
Attributes: Artistic Expression (AE)
THEA 370GB Performing (in) Athens: Exploring the City through Theatre and Performance (3 Credits)
Athens is considered one of the most vibrant theatre scenes in Europe. We will focus on current practices in theatre and performance mainly in Greece, but also in Europe and the United States. We will undertake a critical, historical and creative overview of theatre and performance making in periods of crisis, in Europe and the United States, and examine how contemporary Greek artists address issues such as: theatre and society, the human body/the body politic, and the stage and the city. We will also perform a slight backtrack into the ancient past and the beginnings of theatre in its birthplace.
“Exploring the City through Theatre and Performance” will include visits to different theatres and other performance spaces: a theatre in a train, a 19th century proscenium theatre, underground performance spaces, together with backstage tours and talks with artists.
“Exploring the City through Theatre and Performance” course is for students in the Arts and Humanities and anyone interested in theatre and performance.
Prerequisites: None
Corequisites: XXXX 53
Attributes: Artistic Expression (AE)
THEA 370LA Contemporary British Theatre - London (4 Credits)
Did you know London has around one hundred theatres? Fifteen of which are occupied by subsidized companies. Large commercial theatres can be found in the West End offering a variety of light entertainment, musicals and comedies. However, London’s theatre scene is not just big budget productions of Billy Elliot and the Lion King. Off-West End productions feature plays with more individual themes. The most innovative and experimental work is usually found in the ‘fringe’ theatres.
Students enrolled in this course will be offered a ‘taste’ of all these modes of production, and a consideration of state subsidy for theatre within a critical framework. Students course will be introduced to a variety of texts, performances and theatrical venues that reflect the vitality of contemporary British theatre. Upon completing the course, students will be able to show an understanding of the network of relationships that constitute contemporary British theatre and be able to critically evaluate theatrical performances with an appreciation of technical terminologically and theoretical perspectives, forming an appreciation of aesthetic, academic and political debates in contemporary British theatre. This course features a co-curricular study tour to Stratford-Upon-Avon.
Prerequisites: None
Corequisites: XXXX 43
Equivalent courses: THEA 370A
Attributes: Artistic Expression (AE)
THEA 370R THEATER IN CORK (3-6 Credits)
Prerequisites: None
Corequisites: XXXX 63
THEA 371 Individual Learning Project (1-4 Credits)
Supervised reading or research at the upper-division level. Permission of department chair and completion and/or concurrent registration of 12 credits within the department required. Consult department for applicability towards major requirements. Not available to first-year students.
Prerequisites: None
THEA 380 Theater Capstone (2 Credits)
A synthesis of all aspects of theater, including dramaturgy (theory, literature, and history), design, directing, technical production, stage management, acting (includes voice work), and movement. Students will create a production concept and all paperwork usually required before a play moves from the world of ideas into the realized production phase. Attendance at specified theater productions is required. Required for theater majors.
Corequisites: THEA XXXA
Restrictions: Enrollment is limited to students with a major in Theater.
THEA 395 Senior Project in Theater (1-4 Credits)
Working with a faculty advisor, the student plans and implements a creative project, a research project, or a thesis. This project might be in any area of theater including acting, playwriting, design, technical production, theater history, dramatic theory and criticism.
Prerequisites: None
THEA 397 Internship (4-16 Credits)
A full semester or summer placement in a variety of professional theater settings doing supervised work. The individual projects are tailored to student needs/career. Subject to approval of faculty advisor and department chair.
Prerequisites: None
Attributes: Experiential Engagement (EX)